Qualified Aerospace Instructor

Finn now wears his blue lanyard, also displaying his civilian wings for the first time since the completion of his first solo flight in a powered aircraft.

During the first week of April, Cadet Flight Sergeant Finn Sprakes completed the final, gruelling assessment of the Qualified Aerospace Instructor’s Course. He graduated as a member of the best team and received his blue lanyard, signifying his instructional qualification.

Finn had the incredible opportunity to partake in the 16th Qualified Aerospace Instructors Course (QAIC). After 7 months of hard work and tight deadlines, they embarked on the final graduation week at RAF Wittering.

“The first two days were intense to say the least, as we were tested in every element of the course’s syllabus, with exams in Air Traffic Management, Flight Training, Aerodynamics, Air Power, Cyber and Instructional Techniques & Presentational Skills.”

After this rigorous start to the week, they were fortunate to be given a tour of the incredible Rolls-Royce facility in Derby. There they learned about the history of Rolls-Royce’s significant contributions to aviation as well as the future of their cutting-edge technology.

That evening, they had our graduation dinner, a night the course members will never forget.

“We ate together as a course along with prestigious guests from all backgrounds and experiences within aviation – a great opportunity and very special evening. As the awards were handed out, I was immensely touched to receive the Top Syndicate award along with my fellow team members. After getting to know each other for the past 7 months while working hard from opposite ends of the country to produce the best quality of work and support each other, I am sure I have made friends for life.”

Finally, to wrap up this exceptional week, the course members were presented with their lanyards and patches for our uniforms by Air Marshal Philip Sturley – a hugely proud moment for Finn.

“My experience on the course has come with many highs, but also a lot of hard work and determination. The opportunities and new skillset I leave with is unlike anything I could have expected to receive upon applying last year and I feel hugely grateful for the opportunity to partake in such a prestigious course offered by the Royal Air Force Air Cadets.”