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By day Nicola Wood keeps Physio Med ship-shape and running smoothly, but by night she runs a very different operation - as Adjutant of the 2527 (Lawnswood) Squadron Air Training Corps, in Horsforth, Leeds.
The ATC is the RAF's cadet force, divided into six regions, 36 wings and more than 900 squadrons within communities around the UK. The aim is to promote and encourage a practical interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force among young people, as well as providing training, which is useful in both the Services and civilian life and help them to develop the spirit of adventure and leadership qualities. And Nicola believes it plays an important role in the lives of the young cadets.
She said: "One of my passions is training and development and getting across the importance it plays in both our personal and professional lives. It is even more important that we get this message across to young people. My volunteering work as an Adjutant and trainer at the ATC provides a fantastic opportunity to teach core values and skills such as, respect, discipline, teamwork, creative thinking, problem solving and self-respect to young people - it's extremely rewarding."
"All too often we hear that there is nothing for the 'Youth' of today to do, leading them into trouble, driving up crime levels, etc. That's where the Air Training Corps comes into its own, teaching them values, helping them to put something back into the community through volunteering, but most of all having a lot of fun through varied activities."
Cadets enjoy various structured activities and events such as wing training days, sports days, band events, Air Training principles and competitions. More formally they can build their CV's with Duke of Edinburgh awards from Bronze to Gold and a BTEC that is worth two GCSE's.
Nicola is also looking for more volunteers to help out at the Horsforth base.
She said: "As with most organisations that are run by volunteers, the Air Training Corps can only provide this structured programme if it has enough people who are willing to give up some of their precious time. We are constantly looking for adult volunteers - they don't need to be ex-Services, just enthusiastic and willing to learn as all the training required will be given. We meet twice a week on Monday and Friday, but anytime that you can give would be welcomed."
If you are interested please email Nicola on Nicola.wood@physiomed.co.uk
