Kimbolton School’s RAF Section delivered an exceptional performance at the recent Regional Air Squadron Trophy (AST) Finals, finishing second overall — missing first place by just two points.
The narrow margin makes the achievement even more impressive, particularly as third place finished 28 points behind, highlighting just how closely contested the competition was at the top.
Held at RAF Honington in Suffolk — home of the RAF Regiment training headquarters — the regional finals brought together 16 RAF Sections from across the Central & East region, making the standard of competition exceptionally high. The team comprised:
Alisha K., Emma S., Harley T., Harry T., Haydn P., Kiki T., Laura B., Matthew G., Olivia B., Oscar H., Quiselle L., Samuel R., Tianii B. and Arthur P..
The AST competition challenges cadets across a wide range of disciplines including leadership, teamwork, drill, discipline and RAF knowledge. This year’s competition also included elements of shooting, first aid, space and cyber, demanding both practical skill and sharp problem-solving under pressure. Success at this level reflects months of preparation, resilience and collective commitment.
In individual categories, the team achieved second place in Drill, Leadership and Space, third place in Shooting and First Aid, and seventh in Cyber — a consistently strong set of results across every discipline.
Alex Bradshaw, who leads the RAF Section within the School’s Combined Cadet Force, praised the group’s performance:
“To miss first place by only two points shows just how strong this team is. Their teamwork, preparation and determination were outstanding. We are incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved.”
Led on the day by Flight Sergeant L. Brightman, the cadets demonstrated composure, professionalism and true team spirit throughout the competition.
The team now looks ahead to the national competition with confidence, building on the momentum of this superb regional result.
Congratulations to the entire RAF Section on a fantastic achievement.
