SALUTE TO TRAINING [Main Title]

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  • Title: SALUTE TO TRAINING [Main Title]
  • Film Number: AMY 212
  • Other titles:
  • Summary: Information film focusing on the Air Training Corps (ATC). Traditional teaching techniques are challenged by a group of training officers who instigate a system where pupils interact with each other during lessons, and during their free time. The camera follows the pupils as they progress through the course, which introduces them to the wide variety of trades available to them within the RAF. The use of a dummy aircraft that houses all the ‘class rooms’ is particularly effective in enhancing the training and developing a team spirit.
  • Description: Reel one: The ATC prepares individuals for their entry into the RAF. Film opens with a physical training (PT) class. It forms part of a training programme that includes a firm appreciation of the use of the English language and basic scientific principles. Mathematics is of particular importance, a sound numerical ability is called for in all trades of the RAF. A class exercise in mental arithmetic is shown, where the weaker pupils are helped by the stronger, developing a team spirit. Progress cards for each pupil allow the instructors to assess their overall progress, and provide additional instruction as required. Reel two: A class of students learns the basic principles of Morse code, communicating with each other via their keypads. All classes are held inside a dummy aircraft to add realism to the exercises. The dummy aircraft, unique to this training station, was made at the suggestion of the commanding officer to further develop team spirit, essential for an efficient crew. The internal layout incorporates all the operational cabins and compartments complete with dummy controls. Radio communication, aircraft recognition, gunnery, map reading, the principles of flight, navigation, and more are taught here, enabling pupils to interact with each other and pass on instructions and orders as if they were flying a real aircraft. The fuselage is movable to simulate flying conditions, and is particularly effective for navigational training. Reel three: The chief training officer talks with the station officer, expressing his admiration of not only the construction of the dummy aircraft, but also models of an aerodrome, wind tunnel and a selection of aircraft. Training with these facilities is known as ‘synthetic’ training. In the navigation room a paper exercise to bomb a U boat pen is underway. The flight lines are plotted after the necessary calculations and grid references have been made. The instructor stresses the responsibility of the navigator. Lives depend upon him. “Get it right, work slowly”. Drill and PT require some imagination to make them interesting to the pupils. Drill routines can be tiresome but are essential to establish discipline. The elements of posture for drill are learnt by copying full time RAF members and commands from a regular NCO. Reel four: Reel opens with a PT class. Fitness of the body is essential as is fitness of the brain. A competitive element between pupils is emphasised. When aloft and static at their stations for hours, flying crew in particular need easy movement of all body parts. Much emphasis is placed on sport and fitness, the range of activities encompasses all sports. Film of horse riding and jumping and elsewhere, team PT exercises in the gym. Cut to aircraft recognition class with model aircraft and photographs. A film of different aircraft is run to encourage speedy recognition. Film closes with the pupils performing several PT exercises outdoors.
  • Alternative Title:
  • Colour: B&W
  • Digitised:
  • Object_Number: AMY 212
  • Sound: Sound
  • Access Conditions:
  • Featured Period:
  • Production Date: 1948
  • Production Country: GB
  • Production Details: ROYAL AIR FORCE (Production sponsor) Gee Films (Production company)
  • Personalities, Units and Organisations:
  • Keywords:
  • Physical Characteristics: Colour format: B&W Sound format: Sound
  • Technical Details: Format: 35mm Number of items/reels/tapes: 4 Length: 3402ft
  • HD Media:
  • Link to IWM Collections page:

    AMY 212

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