A minister or priest of any religion can apply to become a chaplain to any one of the 1,000 ATC squadrons up and down the country. There are openings for lay ministers such as Readers, Lay Preachers and others who fulfil an authorised ministry in the pastoral work of the parish, circuit or district. Where appropriate to meet the needs of cadets from non-Christian faiths clerics from other faiths may also be appointed.

As an Honorary Chaplain within the ATC you don't wear uniform but are recognised by a Chaplain's Badge worn on your lapel and the larger edition worn on your preaching scarf.

You function as a volunteer attached to a squadron in your area and have the privilege of offering guidance and leadership to cadets and members of staff on moral and spiritual matters.

The commitment expected of a chaplain is a regular monthly visit to your unit to lead what is termed "the Padre's Hour" (although that it how it is referred, it does not necessarily last for that time and the term "Padre" is how you will normally be addressed within the Squadron) and the conduct of the formal Enrolment Service when new cadets are received into full membership of the organisation having successfully completed the probationary stage.

From time to time it will be appropriate for you to extend an invitation to the squadron to parade to your Church and share in the worship.

The Squadron Chaplain receives no pay but can receive certain allowances. You may be reimbursed for Home to Duty travel costs and will receive pulpit supply expenses when you are attending Annual Camp and if you require a locum and you will also have your accommodation costs met in full. The real rewards and the satisfaction come with the job itself.

"To provide appropriate pastoral care for all personnel within the Air Training Corps
irrespective of religious belief or status".

"To represent the Kingdom of God and its values, to meet the pastoral, spiritual and moral needs of the Air Training Corps and to enable its members to practise their various faiths".

There is no formal training for Squadron Chaplains but you will be encouraged to attend the annual Chaplains' Conference within your Wing - a geographical area - when you will have the opportunity to discuss Chaplaincy matters and exchange ideas with other chaplains. As a Squadron Chaplain you will be supported by your Wing and Regional Chaplains and by the Royal Air Force Chaplains' Branch.

"As an ATC chaplain you will be made most welcome on RAF Stations and have an opportunity of flying and gliding when accompanying your cadets".

It is a requirement of the Criminal Justice and Court Service Act 2000 that all persons who regularly work with children or vulnerable persons must be cleared through the Criminal Records Bureau. Also the agreement of the appropriate ecclesiastical authority must be secured before a chaplain is appointed.