Drill and Ceremonial
Drill is a cornerstone of RAF Air Cadets, instilling discipline, teamwork, and a sense of pride. Through regular practice, cadets transform from individuals into a unified team, moving and acting as one on the parade square and at ceremonial events.
More Than Marching
Drill is best described as the practice and rehearsal of prescribed movements—mainly marching, moving about, and self-conduct while in uniform. It is a powerful tool to encourage self-discipline and develop teamwork skills, allowing cadets to move and conduct themselves in a smart, uniform, and cadet-like manner.
All cadets and uniformed staff are expected to achieve a good standard of drill, but many aspire to become experts and even instructors. With experience, you could pass on your knowledge to others, instructing drill squads, taking charge of parades, or playing a major part in ceremonial drill. Being a Standard Bearer at a Remembrance Day parade is a real moment of pride and achievement for any cadet.
Ceremonial activities can range from a single cadet representing the ATC at a formal function, to a whole squadron turning out for prestigious events like Remembrance Sunday or Armed Forces Day. These occasions demand the highest standards of drill and conduct, and cadets take great pride in representing the squadron in the public eye.
Drill & Ceremonial Opportunities
There are many ways to get involved in drill and ceremonial, from specialist courses to national competitions and prestigious ceremonial roles. Here are some of the key opportunities available to cadets and staff:
A 2-day intensive course for senior cadets to improve drill standards and gain a deeper understanding of drill and ceremonial. Graduates often become drill instructors and leaders on their squadrons.
A week-long course at RAF Cranwell covering advanced drill, banner and pace stick drill. Successful candidates become qualified Drill Instructors, leading drill at the highest level.
The National D&C week-long camp brings together hundreds of cadets and staff for advanced drill, rifle and banner drill, and a spectacular final parade supported by musicians.
Annual competitions at Wing, Regional, and Corps level let cadets demonstrate their skills and teamwork in Foot Drill, Banner Drill, and Armed Continuity. Compete for pride and recognition at the highest level.
Develop Your Discipline & Teamwork
Join 485 Squadron and embark on a journey of personal growth, discipline, and teamwork through Drill & Ceremonial. The skills and confidence you gain will benefit you for life—on and off the parade square.
Want to learn more about drill movements, parade commands, or ceremonial standards? Our comprehensive Drill & Ceremonial Guide covers everything you need to know to excel on the parade square and at formal events.