To understand the role of the Civilian Committee it helps to understand how the ATC is controlled. Squadron organisation and training policy is implemented by the uniform staff, with the civilian committee acting in a supporting role, the setting of this policy is determined jointly and ultimately by the Air Cadet Council where civilian representation predominates.

As a civilian youth organisation, the ATC has responsibilities to the community in which the Squadron is located. The Civilian committee provides a link between the Cadet Organisation, Cadet parents and the wider community.

The Civilian Committee supports the Squadron by assisting the Officer Commanding in the organisation of events; publicity; fund raising and accounting in accordance with HQ Air Cadet rules. The Squadron is a Registered Charity and has to administer funds in accordance with rules set by the Office of the Scottish Charity Registrar.

These responsibilities and many others are discharged during regular meetings. The Civilian Committee plays a vital role in the efficient running of a Squadron and the Corps as a whole.

Child Protection is taken extremely seriously by the Corps. All adult Staff are subject to vetting prior to having contact with Cadets.

A Squadron Civilian Committee ideally comprises about 6 members. The Office Bearers, (Chair, Secretary and Treasurer) of the Civilian Committee are subject to annual election at an AGM held around September. The Squadron Chaplain and the Squadron Commander are also ex officio members of the Civilian Committee.

Is the ATC a military organisation? No, it is a uniformed, civilian, youth training organisation attached to the RAF and, as outlined above, there is a strong civilian influence on its policies and direction. It offers young people unrivalled opportunities for training, adventure, travel, development of life skills and citizenship in an ordered and disciplined environment.