2344 (Longbenton) Sqn

Young students from Longbenton Community College and St Mary's Comprehensive swapped their classrooms for cockpits to glide their way to success. The students earned their gliding wings at RAF Topcliffe in North Yorkshire.

We reported earlier this year that 16 year old Cadet Corporal Andrew Bull (pictured) gained his gliding wings and now five more of his friends have followed suit. The youngsters are all members of 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron where they have this exciting opportunity offered as part of their training.

Cadet Hardit Parmar, 16, said "It was one of the best things I've ever done. It was very challenging, especially the landings, but being able to tell people that I'm a glider pilot is mint."

Squadron boss,  Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson said, "The gliding scholarships are a major part our aerospace programme and I am delighted to see so many of our young people gain huge successes."

Congratulations go to:-

Cadet Corporal James Nealings - Gold Wings.

Cadet Corporal Charlie Smith & Cadet Hardit Parmar - Silver Wings.

Cadet Flight Sergeant Stephanie Robson & Cadet Abigayle Hill - Blue Wings

• There is the opportunity to go gliding. This is with No. 645 Volunteer Gliding School (VGS) based at RAF Topcliffe; which is a satellite airfield of RAF Linton-on-Ouse, North Yorkshire.
• 645 VGS Operate the Grob 109b Vigilant motorised Glider. This Requires no winches, or other aircraft to get airborne. By participating in Glider Training, the young people are able to fly solo and become qualified glider pilots.
• Those aged under 16 may attend Gliding Induction Courses (GIC's) these will consist of up to 5 launches to asses their ability and aid selection for the Gliding Scholarship scheme once they have reached the age of 16.
• Gliding Scholarship consists of a significantly larger time flying (Upto 10 hours).
• In this time, the cadet is constantly being assessed by the course staff, and if they achieve the required standard then they could be given the chance to fly the glider solo... Imagine being able to fly as captain BEFORE you can drive!