The ATC presence in Highworth started at the same time as the issuing of the Royal Warrant on the 5th February 1941, when 214 (Highworth) Squadron was formed.

The Squadron existed until 1954, when due to falling numbers of cadets it became a Detached Flight of 1244 (Swindon) Sqn. Sadly the trend in falling numbers did not stop, and in 1959 the unit was closed.

However this did not mean that cadets from Highworth were not involved in the ATC, as at least one Cadet Warrant Officer of 1244 Sqn was from Highworth.  This trend continued to grow and by 1987/8 many of 1244 Sqn (Stratton Detached Flight) were from Highworth.

It was therefore decided that a Detached Flight of 1244 Sqn should be opened in Highworth, and this came into being in 1988 parading at Warneford School.

By 1990 the unit had maintained a strength of 30 cadets for some time and for administrative reasons the unit transferred to 992 (Malmesbury) Squadron. The new identity was quickly changed however as on 1st March 1991 878(Highworth) Sqn came into existence.

This did not mean that accommodation was available, indeed the Sqn waited until June 1993 for a headquarters building to be erected at Newburgh Place.

In 1993 the Sqn history also came full circle with Stratton Detached Flight becoming part of the Sqn from September 1993, until it became 2003 (Stratton) Sqn on 1st Jan 2003.
 
878 Sqn cadets have represented the Wing in various National Competitions, and had numerous cadets represent the Wing as Lord Lieutenants Cadet.