Civilian Instructor Matt Burke was born in Surrey in 1984 but spent much of his early life in Perth, Western Australia. He joined the Combined Cadet Force (RAF Section) while a pupil at Whitgift School in South Croydon and attended camps at RAF Benson, Uxbridge and Cosford. He also took advantage of the many Air Experience Flights on offer, and thoroughly enjoyed flying vigorous aerobatics.

Aged 16, Matt was awarded a Gliding Scholarship which he completed on the Vigilant T1 motor-glider at RAF Halton, flying solo in 10 hours. He enjoyed target shooting and achieved marksmanship qualifications on the No.8 Rifle. Rising to the rank of Cadet Sergeant, Matt instructed younger cadets in drill, weapons handling, aircraft recognition and the principles of flight.

Matt also enjoys camping and other outdoor activities and was both a co-ordinator on a Kids’ Camp and a helper at a pre-university ‘Headstart’ course.

After completing his A-levels, Matt took a gap year. He worked for six months before his hunger for adventure took him to Russia where he taught English as a foreign language. Returning to the UK, Matt read Computer Science at the University of York and when not studying, took part in archery, fencing and student radio. By his third year, he was Head of Production, responsible for training and all the produced output, in addition to presenting two weekly shows.

Matt rejoined the Air Cadet Organisation in February 2008 with 340 (Edenbridge) Squadron ATC, where he is responsible for the design and maintenance of this website among other duties.

Matt lives in Westerham and his hobbies include playing the guitar and piano, computing, and DIY.