I joined my local RAF Air Cadets (RAFAC) squadron when I already had a love for aviation, but I didn’t yet know how to pursue it or where it could take me. RAFAC gave me the structure, encouragement and opportunities to start turning that passion into something real. It became the place where my confidence grew, my skills developed, and my aspirations began to feel achievable.

Through the Progressive Training Syllabus, I’ve earned a range of qualifications, each one pushing me to learn something new. My favourites have been marksmanship, shooting on the BSA Scorpion and road marching where I have walked a total of over 120km! I have had the chance to fly twice in the Grob Tutor and once in a Chinook, experiences I’ll never forget. I completed my Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award, which challenged me in ways I didn’t expect and taught me the value of teamwork, determination, and resilience.

"RAF Air Cadets became the place where my confidence grew, my skills developed, and my aspirations began to feel achievable."
Corporal Till Roberts, 414 (Epping & North Weald) Squadron

Some of my best memories have come from the incredible camps I’ve attended. They’ve given me independence, leadership experience and friendships that mean a lot to me. In 2024, I was honoured to be named Cadet of the Year at my squadron, followed by promotion to Corporal this year, a milestone that reminds me how much I’ve grown since joining.

Outside RAFAC, I’ve continued my aviation journey as a glider pilot, flying high-performance single-seaters and earning my aerobatic endorsement, which allows me to fly aerobatics solo. I’m also a two-time Air League Scholar, opportunities that have helped me progress massively. Every year, I attend the Air League Annual Receptions at the House of Commons. I always look forward to meeting Air Commodore Al Lewis, Commandant of the Air Cadets. His support both for my flying and for my social media work has meant a lot, and through him I was introduced to the Director of the Air Cadet Charity, which gave me the opportunity to contribute my digital media skills to help promote the work it does for young people across the UK.

Sharing my flying journey online has also become a big part of my life. I create gliding content that has reached millions of views, and recently took the role of a British Airways Speedbird-Z Influencer. This allows me to inspire other young people with an interest in the aviation industry. There isn’t a lack of talent. There’s a lack of opportunity, and organisations like RAFAC and the Air Cadet Charity exist to close that gap.

One of the most important things I’ve learned is that the RAF Air Cadets isn’t just for people who want to be pilots. Yes, it’s an incredible environment for those passionate about aviation, but it’s equally valuable for young people interested in sports, leadership, technology, engineering, adventure training, or simply building confidence and trying something new. RAFAC opens doors in every direction, and the Air Cadet Charity plays a vital role in helping those doors stay open.

"If you choose to support the Air Cadet Charity, you’re not just supporting an organisation; you’re supporting potential, ambition and the future of young people across the UK."
Corporal Till Roberts, 414 (Epping & North Weald) Squadron

The opportunities I’ve had such as flying aircraft, attending events, developing skills, and discovering what I’m capable of were made possible because RAFAC exists, and because charities, volunteers and supporters believe in investing in young people. Many cadets across the UK depend on this support to access training, equipment, experiences and guidance that can genuinely change their lives.

RAFAC hasn’t been the only influence on my aviation journey, but it has definitely been one of the most important. It has shaped my confidence, leadership, discipline and ambition. And I know that with continued support for the Air Cadet Charity, thousands more young people will have the chance to experience the same life-changing opportunities.

If you choose to support the Air Cadet Charity, you’re not just supporting an organisation; you’re supporting potential, ambition and the future of young people across the UK.

Corporal Till Roberts

414 (Epping & North Weald) Squadron