In 2023, 354 (Dover) Squadron was nominated by London and South East Region for the Marshall Trophy, awarded to the ATC squadron that has made the greatest improvements in training and administration.
Three years on, that journey has reached an incredible milestone, with 354 (Dover) Squadron named the National Winner of the Marshall Trophy for 2026.
When Flight Lieutenant RAFAC Rachelle Broom took command in September 2021, there were just 18 cadets on the books, with around 13 to 14 regularly attending parade nights, supported by a small team of adult volunteers. Since then, the squadron has continued to grow, tripling the amount of cadets on the books, developing both its staff team and the opportunities available to its cadets.
Commenting on the national award, Group Captain RAFAC Ben Wakefield, Senior Volunteer, said: “The citation for 354 (Dover) demonstrated the breadth of development the squadron has achieved over the last couple of years, with a particular focus on getting the basics right before moving on to further experiential opportunities for their cadets demonstrating both the breadth of delivery and the impact it was having on their cadets.”
That development can be seen across almost every aspect of squadron life. Cadets have continued to progress through their classifications while gaining specialist qualifications in leadership, aviation, radio, first aid, cyber, shooting and road marching, alongside taking part in flying, gliding, camps, competitions and ceremonial events.
Aviation remains a particular strength. Three cadets have completed Gliding Scholarships, all progressing to solo flights, with more cadets waiting for their opportunity. The squadron also celebrated its first Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in seven years, while two cadets were selected for the International Air Cadet Exchange, with one travelling to the United States and another to Australia back in July.
Cadets have also taken part in camps and activities at RAF Odiham, RAF Cosford and RAF Wittering, as well as Exercise Eagle Gauntlet, Aviation Camp and National Air and Space Camp. These experiences have introduced cadets to aviation, aerospace, leadership, fieldcraft and specialist training, while developing their confidence and independence.
The squadron’s adult volunteers have played an important role in this development. Staff have supported training across Kent Wing in areas including radio, cyber, first aid and method of instruction, while continuing to gain qualifications and specialist skills of their own. This has helped create further opportunities for cadets and allowed the squadron to become involved in newer areas such as space and STEM.
The squadron has also maintained strong links with its local community. Cadets regularly support Remembrance events, public parades and community activities, including events with the Dover Lions Club and the Royal British Legion. They have also provided the last two Kent Lord Lieutenant’s Cadets and a Dover Mayor’s Cadet, giving cadets valuable experience of civic and ceremonial duties.
Investment in the squadron has continued alongside this growth, including the acquisition of a new squadron minibus and additional driving qualifications for staff, making it easier to take cadets to activities, courses and camps.
The National Marshall Trophy therefore represents the effort that has gone into the squadron over the last three years. It recognises the sustained work of the cadets, adult volunteers, parents, committee and supporters since the squadron’s original nomination in 2023.
From 18 cadets in 2021 to a thriving squadron with over 45 cadets providing opportunities across training, aviation, leadership, community engagement and specialist activities, 354 (Dover) Squadron has come a long way.
Winning the 2026 National Marshall Trophy is a significant milestone, but the squadron’s development continues, with its motto remaining at the heart of everything it does: Lux Tua Nos Ducat – Let your light guide us.
The RAF Air Cadets offer young people exciting opportunities for personal and professional development. They’re an inclusive organisation that cares about helping young people reach their potential and provide aviation based training giving young people confidence, leadership and team working skills ready to prepare them for either service in the military or to excel in civilian life.
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