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ISSUE 2 2022

THE RAF CONINGSBY JOURNAL



An independent boarding school with a safe, happy and supportive environment

Whole School Open day Saturday 17 September 2022 Register at: www.lvs.ascot.sch.uk/admissions/open-days Discounts available to Armed Forces and Diplomatic families


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CONTENTS ISSUE 2 2022

Stn Cdr’s Foreword Group Captain Matt Peterson OBE MA BSc RAF

IT GIVES ME GREAT PLEASURE TO INTRODUCE THIS SUMMER EDITION OF 121, WHICH IS PACKED WITH THE INCREDIBLE AMOUNT OF ACTIVITY THE STATION HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS.

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hen writing these introductions, I am forever struck with a sense of deep pride and humility for the sheer variety and magnitude of endeavours our talented workforce have partaken in, both in and out of work. Indeed, no more so is this true than for this edition and whilst still recovering from the global pandemic and in the face of unprecedented operational demands, our ability to lend support to fantastic charitable fundraising, commemorate our history and reach out to local communities and young minds it truly astonishing. On the operational front, RAF Coningsby was, and continues to be, at the very forefront of the UK’s response to the invasion of Ukraine. Since the 24th of February, and through some outstanding individual and collective efforts, the Station reacted with incredible speed and agility and, despite

the challenges, we have unceasingly delivered our critical task to support NATO and national objectives. The magnitude and global impact of the Station’s achievement cannot be understated; however, as we transition to another new and enduring normal, with violence in Europe once more, the true significance of our continuing operational output may not be fully realised for some time. Regardless of this fact, the entire Station can be justly proud of our efforts to date. Finally, this edition includes the first of a series of fabulous events the Station will hold to mark the occasion of Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. As ever, RAF Coningsby will be at the very heart of proceedings across the UK throughout, with magnificent support both in the air and on the ground, for what we will be an incredible summer of national celebration!

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FEATURES Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pudding Competition 14 JET 21 Saddle Up For Jetride 2022 23 FD Event Ex IWM 24 Spinning Club Charity Event 25

SQUADRON NEWS 3(F) Sqn XI(F) Sqn 41 Sqn 12 Sqn 611 Sqn

07 09 11 13 17

FORCE PROTECTION 7FP 19

Editor’s Foreword Flt Lt Holly Holt

ISSUE 2 2022

A SEASON OF JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS.

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he month of May saw the first of the Station’s Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, kicking off with a quintessentially British pudding competition. Many have taken the opportunity to raise money for charity, whilst others have grasped the chance to develop themselves physically and mentally through Force Development and Adventurous Training.

The onetoone magazine continues to play its part in reducing the environmental impact of the publication. The magazine is now fully recyclable, and we still hope to encourage more people to read the magazine online at www.onetooneonline.co.uk I hope that you enjoy the Summer edition of this magazine and we look forward to catching up with you again in the Autumn. Flt Lt Holly Holt


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ISSUE 2 2022

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3(F) SQN

3(F) SQN O

n 13 May 2022, 3(F) Squadron celebrated its 110th anniversary. Formed as No. 3 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps in 1912 at Larkhill in Wiltshire, the Squadron became the first British unit to operate heavier than air aircraft. Our motto, ‘Tertius primus erit - The third shall be first’ is a recognition of this fact and our crest also reflects this, featuring a cockatrice - the first creature in mythology to fly. The Squadron has operated many different aircraft types over the years, including: Hurricanes, Canberras and Harriers, before moving to the Typhoon in 2006. With over a century of

3(F) SQUADRON

110 YEAR ANNIVERSARY.

history, and we look forward to carrying that legacy into the future! Adventurous Training After returning from postdeployment leave in February, Squadron members had the opportunity to undertake adventurous training activities. Flt Lt Lewis Travers, a recently qualified ski leader, took a group of 14 Pilots, Ops staff and Engineers to Meribel in the French Alps for a week. They were lucky to have good snow conditions and even better views. The opportunity to learn and socialise in a group of mixed ranks and trades on the slopes will undoubtably improve morale

previously denied affection for the Naval Service. Despite the changeable conditions, high morale was maintained, and the expedition went without a hitch. A big well done to the whole crew! Arrivals and Departures Since returning from deployment, the Squadron has said goodbye to a number of its longer serving members. Our Senior Engineering Officer, Sqn Ldr Sam Bennett and his 4-legged assistant Maggie, will both be missed in the Engineering building. Flight Commander, Sqn

flying behind it, 3(F) has Battle Honours from as far back as WWI and WWII, including: at the Somme, the Battle of Britain and the Normandy landings. More recently, 3(F) has been involved in operations in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria. The occasion will be celebrated at an event for current members of the Squadron and of the 3(F) Squadron association. 3(F) Squadron has an incredible

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and communication back in the workplace. A team of intrepid 3(F) Squadron sailors braved the British spring weather and took to the high seas for a week of nautical adventures. Under the watchful eye of Squadron Uncle, Sqn Ldr Jessett, they tacked and jibed their way around the Solent. Ensuring they could all tell their bowlines from their backstays, Sqn Ldr Jessett clearly demonstrated his

Ldr Dave Griffiths has made the move across the runway to 12 Squadron, where the flying skills he honed on 3(F) will be put to good use. Flt Lt Jonny Eatherton, the creator of much Squadron morale, has also moved to the other side of the airfield where he has been selected to become an instructor on the Typhoon OCU and Operations Officer Flt Lt Jade Beckford leaves us to join the Red Arrows. We wish all former Squadron members the best in their new roles and hope that they won’t be strangers.


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ISSUE 2 2022

Welcome to Coningsby St Michael’s Primary School! Coningsby St Michael’s Primary School is a vibrant school where children are enthusiastic and motivated to achieve endless possibilities. The children are at the heart of every decision we make to ensure that they are happy, confident and that the opportunities that are provided for them are relevant to their needs both now and in the future. At Coningsby St Michael’s Primary School, we believe that children should be curious about their learning. Through our engaging curriculum, we ensure that children can foster a passion for learning that will help to develop high aspirations and a lifetime of memories. We believe in ensuring that children receive a well-rounded curriculum; where individual talents can be spotted and nurtured to ensure that all children experience success and reach their full potential. The school has a dedicated team that works hard to reach high standards in everything we do and this is further embedded through our successful relationships with parents, the local community and the other schools in the Lincoln Anglican Academy Trust. Our Head of School is an Early Years and Phonics Specialist Teacher and our Assistant Head is a Maths Specialist Teacher. We parents and pupils, andPlease restrictions permitting, We welcome welcomevisits visitsfrom fromprospective prospective parents and pupils. contact the school look to being to offer open later this yearabout for pupils due toschool. start officeforward if you would likeable to arrange a visitmornings or ask any questions our lovely school in September 2022. Please contact the school office if you would like to arrange a visit or ask any questions about our lovely school.

As part of our desire to deliver a holistic approach to the curriculum we have some exciting developments in 2021: Forest School: This year, we have adopted the Forest School ethos which began in Scandinavia. The Forest School approach to teaching and learning is to nurture the skills children develop through their outdoor forest school lessons. Skills are developed over a sustained period of time and children are encouraged to take risks through challenging and meaningful activities, such as learning how to use tools and how to light a fire safely for cooking outdoors. Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of our Forest School leaders who have achieved the Level 3 Forest School qualification. This enables them to deliver exciting and creative lessons, whilst being fully trained in food hygiene and risk assessments for all equipment and activities undertaken. The core principles of the Forest School scheme focus on developing children’s skills in a holistic way. Children have lots of opportunities to explore the natural environment while also developing lifelong skills.

Improvements to the Early Years outdoor play area: During the summer break in 2021, we’ve invested heavily in the redevelopment of our outdoor Early Years provision area. We’ve created a smart, safe and stimulating area with new play equipment which we are sure our pupils will love. These improvements have complemented the existing fantastic outdoor space available to our pupils, including the Mystical Garden, featuring Jammy and Dodger the pygmy goats.

Aim - Aspire - Achieve Coninsby St Michael’s Church of England Primary School School Lane, Coningsby, Lincolnshire, LN4 4SJ Tel: 01526 342312 Email: enquiries@csm.lincs.sch.uk Web: www.coningsbyprimary.co.uk

We are a friendly, happy little school where children are ‘firmly at the centre of all that takes place.’ (Ofsted 2018). We are very proud of the rich educational experiences we provide for our children, including excellent music and sporting opportunities. We have very close links with the local community, including our RAF family. Tattershall Primary is a community school in the heart of the village, with 40% 50% of our intake being RAF children. In addition to excellent teaching, outstanding behaviour and an ethos built on mutual respect, our safe and secure learning environment also includes: -­‐ -­‐

Small infant class sizes with no more than 25 20 children A buddy system for all new children

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Very supportive parents

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Children enter school full-time on their first day

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Bluey lunchtime club for children with deployed parents

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Outstanding sporting opportunities for all children across the school, including a wide range of after school clubs

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Nationally recognised music provision, including the opportunity for every child to play an instrument free of charge!

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Above National Early years, phonics, KS1 and KS2 results.

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Ranked in the top 5 schools in Lincolnshire for pupil progress (top 3% Nationally)

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Motivated, happy children who are consistently taught by dedicated, knowledgeable and hardworking staff

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Outstanding safeguarding and pastoral care

Don’t just take our word for it! Come and experience what #TeamTattershall has to offer. Book an appointment with the office staff, or just pop along for a tour of the school.


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XI(F) SQN

XI(F) SQN T

he last few months for XI(F) Squadron have been exceptionally busy, acting in support of the enhanced Vigilance Activity (eVA) by launching armed Typhoons from RAF Coningsby on pre-planned sorties to fulfil NATO taskings in Europe. According to a NATO spokesperson: “these measures increase the readiness, deter aggression, and clearly demonstrate NATO’s firm commitment to the defence of all allies”. For the personnel of XI(F) Squadron, not only did this mean preparing and flying aircraft on operational sorties at short notice, but also maintaining QRA and regular training flying. Needless to say, the hard work and unwavering commitment from all did not go unnoticed. As the eVA continues, XI(F) Squadron now look onto their next challenge. The pilots of XI(F) Squadron

welcomed a new addition on secondment from 3(F) Squadron, Flt Lt Olly Harbridge, and look forward to including him in their giant sunglasses order. Sadly, there are many faces soon to be leaving XI(F) Squadron. Sqn Ldr Roberts, Sqn Ldr Rennie, Flt Lt Bass, Flt Lt Curran, Fg Off McGirr and Fg Off Osborne to name a few. XI(F) Squadron thanks every one of them for their hard work and commitment and they were given a suitable send off at The White Hart Hotel in Lincoln. With each moving onto new and exciting roles not only in the UK but across the globe, both in and out of the RAF, we wish them every success in their future endeavours. On the Engineering side of the house, Flt Sgt Mark “Wol” Waller reluctantly handed over the mantle of Flt Sgt B Shift to Flt Sgt Christopher “Dinger” Bell;

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PROJECTING COMBAT AIR POWER IN SUPPORT OF NATO ACROSS EUROPE.

the only reason we managed to shoehorn Wol out was because he was promoted to Warrant Officer! In his attempt to further Fighter Integration between F-35 and Typhoon, Flt Lt Phil Dawe (XI(F) Squadron QWI) led the charge recently, allegedly culminating in a flypast of the 2 types at RAF Marham.

Unfortunately, the F-35’s stealth was so effective that the photographers missed the event, and we will just have to take Phil’s word for it… From all at XI(F) Squadron, we hope everyone enjoys their summer. Aquilis Flight Lieutenant Mike Hems

Seab’s Last Flight


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ISSUE 2 2022

Discover

Bransby Come and visit our rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules!

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welcoGmSe

Enjoy a great day out for all the family at our award winning Visitor Centre, Café & Gift Shop.

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For more information on opening times, call, find us online or follow us on social media.

Find us at LN1 2PH • 01427 788 464 • BransbyHorses.co.uk Charity No: 1075601

Straight from the horse’s mouth; say hello to BRANSBY HORSES Every year Bransby Horses welcome thousands of visitors to meet our four-legged residents and explore miles of picturesque walkways in the heart of the Lincolnshire countryside. With an award-winning Visitor Centre, Bransby Horses is perfect for a family day out or a meet up with friends. Every month we offer a new and unique kiddie’s exploration trail, and we have a brand new play park, suitable for children of all ages. Our family activities provide fun and entertainment whilst giving you the opportunity to see many of our rescued animals and learn about the work that we do. Activities cost between £3.50-£5.00 per child which includes a prize; there’s no need to book – simply ask on arrival. Throughout December, families can help Pudding the Shetland pony and Santa round up his reindeer after escaping from the North Pole. Can you find them all up and help save Christmas? There are hundreds of gifts to choose from in our fabulously stocked Gift Shop in addition to many pre-loved items for sale for you to grab a bargain in our Donated Goods Shop. The Café boosts a five-star hygiene rating and serves a selection of delicious breakfasts, light bites and lunches, along with Afternoon Tea by reservation, giving you the perfect excuse to indulge after a scenic walk in the fresh country air. Bransby Horses really does have something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? We’re FREE to visit and open Wednesday to Sunday 10am – 4pm, and seven days a week during school holidays. Our visitor site spans 600 acres of beautiful countryside and there’s hundreds of horses, ponies, donkeys and mules just waiting to meet you! • • • • • •

Free entry and parking. No need to book. Dog-friendly. Afternoon Teas are available in the Café by 24-hour pre-order. We encourage the wearing of face coverings unless exempt. All activity routes are buggy and wheelchair friendly.

For more information about Bransby Horses, visit us at Bransby, Lincoln, LN1 2PH, search ‘Bransby Horses’ online or call 01427 788 464.


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41 SQN

41 SQN A

busy few months for 41 Squadron as we continue to work up to what will be a very intense and busy trials period. The short-term focus being Trial ANDERRA, where we will be carrying out an assessment of the latest Typhoon radar capabilities in simulated combat scenarios against other military aircraft. More specifically the C17, Hawk and Grob Tutor. We did, however, find time to finally get together for our first Squadron formal function in over 2 years. Thursday 28 April would see us hosted by the Petwood Hotel for a very successful and needless to say, a very long overdue Dining in Night (DiN). This gave 41 Squadron the opportunity to raise funds for the Seek and Support Welfare Fund through numerous ‘fines’. We also had the opportunity to say our farewells to several members of the Squadron. Congratulations to Sqn Ldr Wes Pead (posted to HQ Air), Flt Lt Linda McLean (posted to 206 Sqn) and Flt Lt Oli Payne (posted to 17 Sqn, USA), who all leave us on promotion. All of which are thoroughly deserved and we wish them all the best for the future. Unfortunately, we also have to say goodbye and good luck Lt Col ‘Sasquach’ Nations, who is posted back to the USA after 2.5-year exchange on 41 Squadron, as we welcome his replacement Lt Col Austin Baker to the team. Welcome, Sir! Sqn Ldr Mic Baker is also leaving and heading across to Saudi Arabia to work for BAE as a simulator instructor. As much as he will be missed, his 41 ‘touch and gos’ after calling 10 mins out will not be! And finally, onto the most important of our goodbyes. Sgt Nige Harper, our IT guru,

our go-to guy, our saving grace when our laptops won’t connect to the network!! Nige leaves the RAF after a very impressive and prestigious 37 years of service. He leaves the RAF with fond memories and plans to be the man at the end of a bar talking about “back in my day…”. Nige, from all of us here on 41 Squadron, it’s been a pleasure and all the best for the future. Air and Space Warfare Centre Awards We had the opportunity to award the following Squadron personnel with ASWC Commendations and Awards due to their hard work, dedication and commitment towards Flight Safety: Sgt Richard Griffiths, LITENING V Trials Testing - Flt Lt Ben Brierley & Sgt Chris Hall and deployment preparation and execution - Mrs Sue Rhoddan. All of the awards were presented by the ASWC Comdt, Air Cdr Rich Davies, who was here for his final visit and flight with 41 Squadron prior to leaving the RAF. Good luck and all the best for the future, Sir and congratulations to you all. Until next time….Seek and Destroy! SAC Shawn Green

FORTY ONE-TO-ONE.

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ISSUE 2 2022

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12 SQN

12 SQN

WELCOMES, FAREWELLS AND CELEBRATION. dron balc ony with Gp Cap t M. Phot ogra phed here on the 12 Squa RAF Con ings by, alon gsid e 12 Pete rson , Stat ion Com man der of Squa dron colle ague s.

(Photo credit to RAF Coningsby Photography Section)

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pril was a month of welcomes and farewells for 12 Squadron. On the 104th birthday of the Royal Air Force, 12 Squadron led the RAF Coningsby Station Dining in Night in the Officers’ Mess. This was the first Dining in Night for the Joint Squadron. The evening saw the ‘Dining In’ of a number of RAF and QEAF additions to the Squadron and sadly, the ‘Dining Out’ of the Squadron’s XO, Sqn Ldr Ryan Lawton, as he leaves the Royal Air Force. Later in the month, the Squadron said a sad goodbye and a happy retirement to Sqn Ldr Roger Wells, who was the Squadron Mentor. He plans to now spend some quality time with his family and continue with his passion of gliding. Sqn Ldr Wells has been instrumental to the Squadron’s preparation for its upcoming deployment to Qatar. Later in the month, the Squadron said a sad goodbye and a happy retirement to Sqn Ldr Roger Wells, who was the Squadron Mentor. He plans to now spend some quality time with his family and continue with his passion of gliding. Photographed here on the 12 Squadron balcony with Gp Capt M. Peterson, Station Commander of RAF Coningsby, alongside 12 Squadron colleagues. Sqn Ldr Wells has been instrumental

to the Squadron’s preparation for its upcoming deployment to Qatar. 12 Squadron recently provided two aircraft for the flypast of the Combined Parade of Officers and Aviators at RAF Cranwell. The parade celebrated graduates from the last two years who have been unable to attend a parade due to the pandemic; the graduation was attended by His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales as the reviewing officer. Keeping with the theme of celebrating success; 12 Squadron annually presents an award to a member of groundcrew who has gone above and beyond in their primary roles. This award takes the form of The Wickenby Dagger – a ceremonial dagger that was presented to 12 Squadron in 1983 by the Wickenby Register Association. The Association was founded to commemorate those who died during World War Two on 12 and 626 Sqns. This year the Dagger was presented to Cpl Cassie Broomhead for her exemplary work for the Squadron, acting in roles well above her rank. Lastly, 12 Squadron would like to draw everyone’s attention to a charity event taking place throughout the month of May. RAF Coningsby Station spinning club have

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(Ph oto cre dit to Flt Lt

Da le Cra ven )

embarked on a charity event that has been setup by 12 Squadron members. The club are cycling the equivalent distance of RAF Coningsby to Doha, Qatar – a staggering 5,267km! The aim is to raise awareness and donations for the Breast Cancer Now charity, after a valued member of the Squadron was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020. The event has been aptly named “Spin To Qatar” – any support or donations would be gratefully received. The link to the JustGiving page is: https://www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/howfarisdoha Photo of the 12 Squadron Wickenby Dagger (Photo credit to L. Parsons)

(Photo credit to RAF Coningsby Photography Section)


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FEATURES ISSUE 2 2022

QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE

PUDDING COMPETITION THE FIRST OF AN ARRAY OF THE QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS ON STATION TOOK PLACE ON MONDAY 9 MAY AND IT COULD NOT HAVE BEEN MORE DELICIOUS!

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e asked for puddings, and puddings were delivered. The judges, consisting of Gp Capt Matt Peterson, WO Catering Tina Wilson, Sgt Ian Mark and Mr Jim Mclellan, all who were not disappointed! There were 13 entrants on the day with a variety of desserts, ranging from a Royal Rocky Road, Celebration Egg Custard, a Zesty Cheesecake and Banana Choc Chip Muffins - but there could only be one first place. The judges scrutinised, tasted, then tasted again and maybe just once more, and eventually decided that a Victoria Sponge would be victorious and take away first prize. The Station Commander presented WO Michelle Rees-Martin with a celebratory cake knife, a Royal Air Force Association (RAFA) cookbook and a bottle of fizz. Second place was awarded to Sgt

Matthew Scott’s young daughter, Scarlett, for her Jubilee Caramel Cornflake Tart and she took home a RAFA cookbook for her and a bottle of prosecco for the grown-ups. The cookery books were kindly donated by RAFA and in return the cakes were auctioned off to raise funds for their cause. This is where it got exciting, with friends bidding against each other to take the bakes all for themselves saw the Victoria Sponge fetch an impressive £21. Many energetic and lively bidding battles ensured a grand total of £148 raised for RAFA. The event was a remarkably successful start in what promises to be a Stellar array of celebrations for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee at RAF Coningsby. As a committee, we would like to thank everyone that contributed to making this a fabulous event: those who baked, those

who judged and those who brought their wallets along too, we could not have done it without you.


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ISSUE 2 2022

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611 SQN

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611 SQN RESERVES SHOW COMMUNITY SPIRIT

AT NORTH WEST CARE HOME PROJECT

RESIDENTS AT A WIRRAL CARE HOME CAN ENJOY THE SPRING OUTDOORS AFTER RAF RESERVISTS FROM 611 SQUADRON TRANSFORMED THE GARDEN AREA OF THEIR PROPERTY.

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ersonnel from the Formby-based squadron, which is twinned with RAF Coningsby, took advantage of some early sunshine to paint benches and tend gardens at the dementia unit at Hoylake Cottage. Each year, members of 611 Squadron, based at RAF Woodvale, come together as a team to deliver a communitybased project in their local area over a training weekend. As a General Service Support Squadron, the unit draws personnel from across the North West to train in air & space

operations, intelligence, ground engineering, logistics, human resources, media and chaplaincy services, to support the RAF in the UK

and overseas on main bases and on operations. 611 Squadron has been affiliated with RAF Coningsby for some years, with reservists working alongside their regular counterparts on numerous occasions. The opportunities provided by RAF Coningsby ensure the Squadron’s personnel remain combat ready in their various trades. Wing Commander Steve Chaskin, the OC of 611 Squadron RAuxAF, said: “ This was a great opportunity for the Squadron to collectively make a difference in the local community. It was very rewarding to see the end result across the facility”. To mark the project, 611 Squadron planted a cherry blossom tree in the gardens at Hoylake Cottage to leave a lasting legacy for the enjoyment of residents, service users and staff. Emma Mathison, Team Leader of the dementia unit at Hoylake Cottage, added:

“It was a lovely gesture from the RAF reservists, who did a great job in getting the grounds and buildings prepped in good time for the warmer months ahead. Our residents can now look forward to spending spring and summer outdoors, with support from 611 Squadron”. More details can be found at https://www.raf.mod. uk/our-organisation/ squadrons/611-r-squadron/


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ISSUE 2 2022

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theiet.org/easy-resettlement Heather Brophy, MOD Development Manager heatherbrophy@theiet.org * More information can be found by asking your Trade or Branch Sponsor about the Engineering Professional Registration Award (EPRA). The Institution of Engineering and Technology is registered as a Charity in England and Wales (No. 211014) and Scotland (No. SC038698). The Institution of Engineering and Technology, Michael Faraday House, Six Hills Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2AY, United Kingdom.

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onetoone

FORCE PROTECTION

7FP

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his has included contribution to Global Operations, as well as international delivery of Defence Activity such as support to multinational Exercises and the provision of international ShortTerm Training Teams. Despite this significantly busy period, 7 RAF FP Wg have had the opportunity to support the Emmaus Federation Schools: Swineshead St Mary’s Church of England Primary School; and Sutterton Fourfields Church of England Primary School, in the delivery of the Forest Federation curriculum - Ex FOREST FEDERATION. The Forest Federation curriculum is an educational scheme which is utilised to encourage confidence and development of the young pupils through the completion of outdoor learning and play activities, a perfect platform for the Wg HQ to contribute to. As a Parent Governor for the Schools, 7 RAF FP Wg Operations Officer, Flt Lt Aidan Houghton saw the potential to assist through the delivery of low-level fieldcraft lessons. Essentially, these lessons focused on individual soldering skills and were created to encourage teamwork and communication, to invigorate and inspire young minds through experiencing completely new skills in a different environment and to develop confidence. Assisting Aidan in the delivery of an action-packed day, repeated at both schools, were a team of Subject Matter Experts from within the 7 RAF FP Wg Headquarters: Fg Off Mazzetti, Cpl Toy, SAC Ratuvuki and SAC Webster. The children received lessons in the following: Navigation and communications. Directed by Cpl Toy and Fg Off Mazzetti, the aim was to explain the use of a

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IT HAS BEEN ANOTHER BUSY PERIOD FOR 7 RAF FORCE PROTECTION WG (7 RAF FP WG) WHO CONTINUE TO BE EMPLOYED ACROSS THE FULL SPECTRUM OF FP TASKINGS. Personal Role Radio (PRR) and demonstrate the passage of information, whilst navigating to various locations on the school grounds. Each group were provided a compass and helped to navigate to several boxes, each containing a word. The objective: collect all the words and use the PRR to relay the completed sentence back to the instructor. Observation lane. Directed by SAC Webster, the aim was to demonstrate how to find hidden objects within a woodland and explain the reasons why this is conducted within FP. This lesson allowed the childrento find and retrieve 5 items in 5 minutes, allowing them to interact with the woodland in several ways. Shelters and equipment. Directed by SAC Ratuvuki, the aim. The aim was to demonstrate the types of shelters and equipment used on FP Operations. The objective being to allow the children to see and touch the equipment and enjoy play

within the shelters used for survival within the military. Overall, this provided a great opportunity for 7 RAF FP Wg personnel and RAF Coningsby to support these outstanding local schools, whilst hopefully

providing some fun learning, encouraging self-confidence and potentially inspiring some young minds to become the RAF recruits of tomorrow. The day was enjoyed by the children, teachers and 7 RAF FP Wg personnel alike.


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ISSUE 2 2022

Local Governance, at the Heart of HET At Horncastle Education Trust, it’s really important to us that the community are involved in shaping their local school. One way we make sure this happens, is through recruitment to our Local Governing Bodies. Governors are volunteers who work closely with our schools to ensure we uphold high educational standards and safeguard our students. Governors also help to shape future developments. Members of the community with a range of different skills and experiences come together to champion our schools and ensure they are the best that they can be. If you are passionate about ensuring the children in your community have the best life chances, we would love to hear from you! When you join us, you’ll be supported by our friendly and experienced team as you develop your knowledge about school governance so that you can play an important part in the future of your local school. You will also have access to a range of training opportunities and the latest information from sector specialists such as the National Governance Association and Confederation of School Trusts. Being a Governor involves visits to the school and attending Governing Body meetings, in addition to some training sessions and our annual conference where you can meet and get to know other Governors, Trustees and Members.

We’re Recruiting!

We are looking for volunteers to join the Governing Bodies at all of our schools. If you would like to find out more, get in touch with us: governance@horncastleeducationtrust.org

Don’t just take our word for it… “Being a Governor enables me to use my knowledge and skills whilst giving something back to the community.” “It’s so rewarding to work with other volunteers and school staff, I love being able to help shape future opportunities for our children.” “My experience as a Governor enhanced my skills, I was able to include this when I applied for my latest job.”

We believe that every student whatever their background has the right to flourish, to achieve and to succeed and everything undertaken by Horncastle Education Trust should have this ambition at its heart.

Frithiville Primary School

The Banovallum School

New York Primary School

Queen Eilzabeth’s Grammar School

We believe that every student whatever their background has the right to flourish, to achieve and to succeed and everything undertaken by Horncastle Education Trust should have this ambition at its heart.

We’re Recruiting!! Horncastle Education Trust comprises four local schools: Banovallum School, Frithville Primary School, New York Primary School and Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School. The Trust was formed from a genuine desire to work more closely together following the success of existing partnership work between the schools. Having both secondary and primary schools that are geographically close is something we take a pride in as a Trust. We have a number of vacancies across the Trust including: Deputy Estate Manger – Estates Work Stream Design & Technology Technician – Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School Relief Cleaner – Estates Work Stream Student Support Officer – The Banovallum School Supply Teachers - Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School Teaching Assistant – The Banovallum School Please visit our Trust website www.horncastleeducationtrust.org/Vacancies/ or contact Karen Swain, Operations Manager, for further information: 01507 522 465 Option 2 or HR@horncastleeducationtrust.org The Support Staff and Teaching Staff Application Forms can be found online www.horncastleeducationtrust.org. Send your completed form along with a covering letter telling us about your experience and the skills you could bring to our Trust.


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FEATURES

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JET CHANGING YOUNG LIVES It’s been a busy academic year for Jon Egging Trust programmes at RAF Coningsby. JET’s Regional Manager, Nicola Ingamells, and JET’s POC at RAF Coningsby, Flt Lt Alex Wright, report. Nicola Ingamells: After so much disruption due to Covid, it has been fantastic to see a full return to our Blue Skies programmes at RAF Coningsby this academic year. The focus has been on Blue Skies 1, our ‘teamwork’ syllabus, which we deliver to our firstyear students. Many of our students are enrolled onto our programmes because they lack self-belief and aspiration; it has been incredibly rewarding to watch our 2021-22 Blue Skies 1 cohort grow in confidence throughout the year. Without doubt, the highlights for us all have been the days that we’ve spent at RAF Coningsby - it’s hard to overstate the impact of these days on our young people. Not only do they allow our students to immerse themselves in a hugely inspiring and empowering experience away from a school setting, but they also allow our students to learn from and interact with the fantastic RAF role models who support the sessions. Our thanks to everyone who has volunteered their time at RAF Coningsby this year, and whose encouragement and expertise has been invaluable in expanding the self-belief and horizons of our students. A special mention too, to Flt Lt Alex Wright who has been our main point of contact on the station. We’re looking forward to working with RAF Coningsby again next year and are excited to be expanding our delivery on the base to include our Blue Skies 2 ‘leadership’ syllabus. Flt Lt Alex Wright: Supporting delivery of JET’s Blue Skies programme has been a fantastic opportunity for our personnel; inspiring young people and strengthening RAF Coningsby’s close relationship with the local community.

The six sessions, including group communication tasks with ATC, STEM engagement activities and a visit to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, have provided the whole team with many challenging opportunities to develop mutual trust and form teams in unfamiliar environments. SAC(T ) A. Eaton, Session Leader, stated: “from a volunteer’s perspective, it is incredibly rewarding to see the progress that the students have made not only in their teamwork and leadership skills, but in their overall confidence. I have noticed short-term and long-term improvements in the students, and hope they continue to grow as young people to fulfil their full potential. I have no doubt that the work the Jon Egging Trust and RAF Coningsby does, has made an effective contribution to the development of young people, long may it continue. It also impacts the station, as personnel get to work with other sections and people they wouldn’t necessarily interact with in their day-to-day roles. This helps build connections between sections, benefitting the station as a whole”. All of this has only been possible thanks to a tremendous, whole Station effort; involving 47 personnel across 27 sections, even

including support from RAFC Cranwell and RAF Cosford personnel. Achieving this alongside core operational outputs, despite difficult Covid conditions, is a great testament to the flexibility and commitment of our personnel - as volunteers, military supporters, or supporting programme administration.

If you’d like to know more about the work of JET and how you can get involved in fundraising events or supporting future Blue Skies programme delivery, please visit our website www. joneggingtrust.org.uk.


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ISSUE 2 2022

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onetoone

FEATURES

23

SADDLE UP FOR JETRIDE 2022 LOOKING TO GET ACTIVE THIS AUTUMN? JETRIDE MIGHT BE JUST THE TICKET!

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f you’ve already read the brilliant article in this edition of OnetoOne about the Jon Egging Trust, you’ll know that we’ve been working hard this year with a fantastic team of RAF Coningsby volunteers to support a cohort of local youngsters who have been struggling with confidence and self-belief. Our work would not be possible without continuous fundraising. This is why we’re asking as many of you as possible to get involved in our flagship cycling sportive, JETRide, which begins and ends at RAF College Cranwell on Saturday 25th September. Here’s how you can get involved: Ride on: For the seasoned cyclist, choose between our 60 or 100 mile courses which navigate the rolling dales of Bomber County.

Beginners luck: New to 2022, we’ve introduced a 30-mile route which is perfect for newbies, or those who want to cycle with younger or less experienced riders. Go remote: Another first for 2022 is JETRide’s remote entry option. No matter where in the world you may be deployed (or holidaying!), you can still join us in September to cover your miles. Get fundraising: Not a cycling fan? No problem. You can help by spreading word of the event to friends and family, or sponsoring one of our fabulous riders – every pound raised really does make a difference to the young people we support. Lend a hand: JETRide is made possible each year by the small army of volunteers who beaver away behind the scenes to make the event run on rails (tyres?).

If you have time to spare on the day and are happy to travel to Cranwell, we’d love to hear from you. Strava Club: Finally, don’t forget we have our JETRide training club on Strava where we’re asking riders to help us cycle a collective 32,000 miles between now and September. That’s one for each young person we’ve supported since 2012!

To register, please go to https://www.joneggingtrust. org.uk/JETride/ (don’t forget to set up your fundraising page too), or to enquire about volunteering on the day, please email events@joneggingtrust. org.uk We hope to see you in September!


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FEATURES ISSUE 2 2022

FD EVENT EX IWM ON THE 5TH OF MAY 2022 THE MISSION SUPPORT CENTRE’S SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT TEAM AT BAE WARTON WENT TO THE IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH IN MANCHESTER.

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he museum is 1 of 5 branches and is the first to be located in the north of England. The museum building was designed by architect Daniel Libeskind and opened in July 2002. Aims and objectives of the force development trip were to give personnel an insight into how warfare has evolved throughout history, from WW1 to the present day. This evolution does not just include weapons and equipment, but also the changing role of Air Power, which is pivotal in shaping and defining the the outcome of armed conflict across the ages.

children from Nazi-controlled territory - this took place during the nine months prior to the outbreak of WWII. The children were placed into British foster homes and in many cases they were the only members of their families to survive the Holocaust. We then broke for refreshments; the museum has a coffee shop and a gift shop to purchase memorabilia. The staff were helpful and willing to provide additional information. A museum brochure and tour guides can be hired for the day at an additional cost too. We recommenced our tour with Sgt Carl Downes’ stand, he spoke about WWI

Infantry Tank MK V MATILDA II used in WWII, provided close support to infantry during the battle of France

From left to right; Sgt Halford, Cpl Jones, Sgt Parry, Sgt Downes, Cpl Tormey, Sgt Campbell, and CT Walton Each member of the group had an informational ‘stand’ to complete and first up was CT Craig Walton, with his talk on ‘the real Dad’s Army’. The Home Guard was set up in May 1940 as Britain’s ‘last line of defence’ against German invasion. Members usually consisted of men above or below the age of conscription or those unfit for front line duty. Next, Sgt Tristan Halford talked about child refugees during WWII and the effects that the War had on them. He went on to explain that the Kindertransport (German for “children’s transport”) was an organised rescue effort of

innovations and outcomes; battlefield air reconnaissance and bombing using aircraft. He also went on to discuss tanks creating rapidly deployable artillery, improved automatic weapons and the use of wristwatches for improved timing accuracy on operations and attacks during trench warfare. The tour was concluded with a large screen show displaying WWII survivors recounting their experiences of the War. The team then took time to absorb in the rest of the exhibits which range from a section of steel beams from the World Trade Centre to a full-size Harrier aircraft.

Steel window section from the ruins of the World Trade Center, 11 September 2001


onetoone

FEATURES

25

SPINNING CLUB CHARITY EVENT Coningsby Spinning Club are spinning to Qatar this May! A grand total of 5,267km! Each of the Station and section instructor lead sessions are contributing to reach our target distance.

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o, a bit of background to why we, as a club, are fundraising for Breast Cancer Now. “My name is Debbra Williams, I work on 12 Squadron and I’m one of the spinning instructions at RAF Coningsby. I have been an instructor for over 10 years on the station. It all started in October 2020 when I found a small lump in my left breast. I went to get checked out and after tests, I was quickly diagnosed with Triple Negative breast cancer at the age of 38. I then embarked on 12 months of intensive treatment consisting of surgery, 16 rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Having chemo was definitely one of the hardest things I have ever done. I returned to work in October 2021 where I slowly returned to spinning, shifted my chemo steroid weight and finally

started instructing again in early 2022. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, around 150 people a day are newly diagnosed (that includes men too). Every year around 11,500 women and 85 men die from breast cancer in the UK – that’s nearly 1,000 deaths each month, 31 each day or one ever y 45 minutes. Hopefully we can raise heaps of money to help change this and the future of breast cancer. As a club we want to help raise the awareness for both men and women and encourage ever yone... TO CHECK YOUR BOOBS!! https://www.justgiving. com/fundraising/ howfarisdoha Photo credit to Sgt Debbra Williams. All participants agreed to the use of this picture.


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ISSUE 2 2022

Life in a Broadgate Home... w

y...

a d to s ie r o m e m g in k Ma

Exciting Times!

ro r o m to r e b m e m e r ...to The GlenlBoaednirong om

5 Detached House

Exploring ul the beautif g surroundin areas Just Chillin! ASK ABOU T OUR PACKAGES FOR EMERG ENCY SERVICE, HEA WORKERS A LTHCARE ND FORCES PERS ARMED ONNEL

The Pitlochry 4 Bedroom Detached House

HOMES: BROADGATE TO N O O S COMING Quadring k, Wygate Par g in d Spal bungalows 3 bedroom

droom 3 and 4 be uses ho d detache ows al g un b d an Weston droom 4 and 5 be uses executive ho Cowbit 3 bedroom bungalows

Table for 2 BY ING NT VIEW INTME O APP

Register your interest today 01406 380532 (weekdays) 01526 800144 / 01526 341244 (weekends) info@broadgate-homes.com www.broadgate-homes.com Terms and conditions apply. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Pictures used for illustration purposes only.

Abbey View A4 Photo Album Ad_1 Nov.indd 1

10/11/2021 10:30


FEATURES

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27


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