Bonus Reel

And just like that, our Summer Camp adventure comes to an end! We certainly weren't going to waste the journey home though. Our final stop was Snozone Yorkshire, where the cadets swapped summer camp for snow and enjoyed an hour-long sledging session on the indoor slopes.

Day 5 of Summer Camp saw the cadets heading north for a day in Leeds, beginning with a visit to the Royal Armouries Museum. The Royal Armouries is the United Kingdom's national museum of arms and armour and looks after one of the largest collections of its kind anywhere in the world.

Another day, another unforgettable adventure! The reports and updates continue to come in from camp, and Wednesday certainly didn't disappoint. Today's activities took our cadets out into the stunning Yorkshire countryside for a day that tested resilience, teamwork and confidence in equal measure.

The first few days of Summer Camp have been packed from start to finish, and by all accounts our cadets have thrown themselves into every challenge with enthusiasm, determination and a real sense of adventure. Although I'm not on camp myself, the updates and reports coming back from staff paint a fantastic picture of what has already been an unforgettable experience.

The 863 (Thurston) Squadron is proud to be one of the supported charities at the 34th East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival. This exciting event will take place from Wednesday 26 August to Monday 31 August 2026 at the stunning St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds. Over six days, the festival will bring together the community to enjoy a wide selection of real ales, craft beers, ciders, food, music, and entertainment — all while supporting local causes like 863 Squadron.

Day three at Whitsun Camp saw 863 (Thurston) Squadron head outdoors for a full day of fieldcraft training, giving cadets the opportunity to develop practical skills, learn new techniques and gain a greater understanding of operating effectively in an outdoor environment.

Day two at Whitsun Camp shifted gears as 863 (Thurston) Squadron moved into a full day focused on leadership, teamwork and communication. Building on the momentum from arrival day, our NCO team took centre stage, delivering a carefully planned programme of activities designed to challenge cadets whilst developing their ability to lead others and work effectively as part of a team.

The adventure has officially begun for 863 (Thurston) Squadron as cadets set off for the start of this year’s Whitsun Camp, beginning what promises to be an exciting week filled with activities, teamwork and plenty of opportunities to build friendships and memories. Travelling in a rather warm and surprisingly mellow 30°C weather, spirits remained high throughout the journey as cadets settled in for the trip south.

The Rickinghall Car Show brought together a lively crowd and a strong sense of spirit, thanks in large part to the dedicated support from 863 (Thurston) Squadron. The event, held at Rickinghall Village Hall on Hinderclay Road, was a day filled with fun activities, teamwork, and a shared commitment to helping others. The squadron’s cadets and adult volunteers played a vital role throughout the day, demonstrating excellent behaviour and enthusiasm that reflected well on the en

In a truly special gesture, the museum opened exclusively for the cadets, allowing them to experience the site in a far more personal and immersive way. As the evening light settled across the museum grounds, cadets were greeted by the incredible sight of towering tanks, armoured vehicles, artillery pieces, and military exhibits stretching across the site. From the very beginning, there was a real sense of excitement and privilege amongst the group.

On Saturday 25 April 2026, cadets from 863 (Thurston) Squadron embarked on a full day of exploration and learning in Greenwich, a place rich with maritime history and scientific discovery.

Yesterday, 22 cadets from 863 (Thurston) Squadron had a fantastic opportunity to step out of their usual routine and onto the mats at Woolpit Village Hall. They joined a special two-hour session hosted by Adrian, Sensei of Inori Aikido, where they learned essential safe falling techniques. This experience not only built their physical skills but also boosted their confidence and resilience, all while strengthening ties with the local community.

Cadets from across the Norfolk and Suffolk Wings gathered at RAF Marham this past weekend to take part in one of the most prestigious events on the Air Cadet calendar — the Annual Drill Competition. The day brought together squadrons from across the region in a proud display of discipline, teamwork, and tradition.

The night began with a guided introduction to our squadron building. Cadets were shown the key rooms and facilities that they will come to know well during their training — from classrooms and stores to the parade square and social spaces.

Cadets from across Norfolk and Suffolk gathered at RAF Honington for a fantastic range day, where they had the opportunity to refresh their training and fire between 20 and 40 rounds on the 25-metre barrack range.

The Air Cadets is more than just an organisation – it is a family. Every uniform, every parade, and every challenge reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves. What sets us apart is not just the opportunities we are given, but the way we come together to support one another, no matter the circumstances.

The morning air at RAF Cranwell buzzed with anticipation. For twelve cadets of 863 (Thurston) Squadron, today was no ordinary day — today, they would fly. Names were read out in groups, each one met with a mixture of nerves and excitement:

Today at 863 (Thurston) Squadron, cadets gathered for an important step in their training — the Weapons Handling Test (WHT). The session was hosted by SGT Hudson, whose clear instruction and professional approach ensured that all attendees had the best possible opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills safely.

Are you looking for something that combines fun, friendship, and personal growth? Becoming an Air Cadet can be one of the most rewarding experiences for young people.