138 1st Nottingham Squadron - RAF Air Cadets

08/05/2026

Cadets from 138 (1st Nottingham) Sqn took part in an annual memorial parade at Nottingham Castle to honor Captain Albert Ball.

Albert Ball, VC, DSO & Two Bars,MC (14 August 1896 – 7 May 1917) was a British fighter pilot during the First World War. At the time of his death he was the United Kingdom's leading flying ace, with 44 victories,

Born and raised in Nottingham, Ball joined the Sherwood Foresters at the outbreak of the First World War and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in October 1914.

He transferred to the Royal Flying Corps(RFC) the following year, and gained his pilot's wings on 26 January 1916.

Joining No. 13 Squadron RFCin France, he flew reconnaissance missions before being posted in May to No. 11 Squadron, a fighter unit. From then until his return to England on leave in October, he accrued many aerial victories, earning two Distinguished Service Orders and the Military Cross. He was the first ace to become a British national hero.
After a period on home establishment, Ball was posted to No. 56 Squadron, which deployed to the Western Front in April 1917.

He died when his plane crashed into a field in France on 7 May, sparking a wave of national mourning and posthumous recognition, which included the award of the Victoria Cross for his actions during his final tour of duty.

Albert Ball's brother founded an Air Defence Cadet Corps Squadron which became the 138 (1st Nottingham) Squadron ATC, a unit with direct historical links to the hero.

To this day, 138 Squadron keeps and guards Albert Ball's sword, presented by his father in 1940.

27/04/2026

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26/04/2026

A month in the life of 138 Sqn:- April

2 day Multi-activity camp at RAF Wittering. 19 cadets from 138 Sqn, took part in Cadet Discipline and team building activities, experiencing an insight into life on a military base. Day 2 , took part in Wing Field Day, in their teams competed against 30 other Sqns from Sth & East Midlands Wing. The challenges included First Aid, Drill and Banner Drill. Amazing opportunities for our cadets.

The Sqn said good luck & goodbye to Sgt L-S.

After a successful camp Field Promotion, Cdt was promoted to Cpl.

A new Training Flight (TF) have joined, known as Jnr Cadets, they have embraced their first training opportunities, including Cadet Codes of Conduct, rank structure and Flying Operations. Their Training continues as they work towards their graduation and Passing Out Parade in July.

STEM:- Build a Parachute
small groups worked together to build a parachute for an egg. Materials included, plastic bag, paper, string.

NCO team worked with Staff (CFAV) Sgts to develop their skills

Sports evening, TF joined Sqn Flights for a sports evening, taking part in, Team Badminton knock out, and an aerobic session.

27/03/2026

Sports Achievement.
FS from 138 Sqn selected member of the Swim Team representing Sth & East Midlands Wing at the Annual Central & East Region Swimming competition.
FS had an amazing day, winning silver medals in the individual backstroke event and the Snr Girls freestyle relay team.

27/03/2026

Congratulations to cadets!
In December, cadets completed the Bronze level National Navigation Award Scheme training and assessment.

The National Navigation Award Scheme (NNAS) is a personal performance, non-competitive, incentive scheme for all ages to learn navigation skills and gain confidence to get out and enjoy the countryside.

1 cadet Reflected on his achievement, “this is great to have on my CV and I’m going to show my Geography teacher”.

The training and assessment was delivered by a Sqn CI who is also a NNAS Course Director.

21/03/2026

Take your life to new heights. Are you ready for your next challenge?
Join the RAF Air Cadets and discover your next adventures. Come & meet us at 138 (1st Nottingham) Sqn to find out more.
Open Evenings 24 March & 14 April 19:15 to 20:30 hrs.
Army Reserve Centre, Carlton.

13/03/2026

We’re excited to be working with to help connect people across Nottingham with an opportunity that builds confidence, skills and community.

From 21 March to 8 April, volunteers can give just 4 hours to local community projects — and earn a ticket to an exclusive Tinie Tempah show at Rock City.

Nottingham RockCorps is a powerful way for young people to:
✔ Gain hands-on experience
✔ Build confidence and transferable skills
✔ Strengthen their CV
✔ Be part of something positive in their city

If you work with young people, we encourage you to share this opportunity across your networks.

Sign up now 👉 www.nottinghamrockcorps.com

Volunteer for 4 hours at community projects in Nottingham and earn a ticket to see Tinie Tempah live at Rock City on April 8, 2026. Sign up now.

08/03/2026

8th March:-
This year's International Women's Day theme, “Give To Gain”, underscores the principle that meaningful progress on gender equality requires deliberate contributions from governments, institutions and individuals. When we invest in women's safety, rights and leadership, we strengthen societies as a whole.

I am very proud to be OC 138 Sqn and have the opportunity to lead a fantastic adult volunteer team. We have a strong team of Women volunteers & Cadet NCOs, leaders in their field and specialities.

We are supported by our County Leader, Sqn Ldr Brock.

Happy International Women’s Day.

08/03/2026

RAFAC’s offer a wide range of activities for young people, including sports events.

Massive congratulations to three cadets who represented 138 Sqn at the South and East Midlands Wing Swimming Competition.

FS Climenco placed 5th in her race of breast stroke
FS Kirby placed 4th in her race of freestyle and 4th overall for senior girls backstroke
CDT Park placed 4th in both of his races of breast stroke and freestyle.

Both FS Climenco and FS Kirby were selected to represent the Wing at Regionals!

A massive well done to all 3 cadets.

The Wing events would not be possible without volunteers, thanks to 138 who joined other volunteers, cdt FS Drury, Civilian Instructor Cottee and Lock Sgt who supported the event.

06/03/2026

Cadets who have completed their First Class Cadet Training, celebrated with family & friends during their Passing Out Parade. CWO Dixon led the Cadet Promise and Sgt Lock read the poem ‘State of Mind’. Presentations also took place for cadets who passed Blue DofE & Essential First Aid. Sqn OC, Flt Lt Payne presented the certificates and announced the cadet promotion from Sgt to FS. Congratulations to all cadets .