CURRENTLY RECRUITING
Helping people Travelling the world Aircraft
INITIAL ANNUAL PAY
£27,200+
+ Benefits
As an RAF Medic, you will provide essential medical support to personnel, responding to medical emergencies and providing airfield crash cover on stations in the UK, whilst on operations and also on exercises. RAF Medics can also train as paramedics, providing a full range of pre-hospital emergency care in military environments.
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CURRENTLY RECRUITING
Helping people Travelling the world Aircraft
DAY RATE STARTS AT:
£68.50
+ Benefits
As an RAF Medic, you will provide essential medical support to personnel, responding to medical emergencies and providing airfield crash cover on stations in the UK, whilst on operations and also on exercises. RAF Medics can also train as paramedics, providing a full range of pre-hospital emergency care in military environments.
Apply as a Reserve
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Don't limit yourself. You can apply for more than one position and we can help you find the right role.
You can view and manage favourites here .
Already applied? See what the next steps in the application process are below.
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Pay and Apply
What will you do?
Requirements & eligibility
Where you can do this role
Career, training & education
Benefits
Your commitment
Application process
Apply for this role
Similar roles
What will you do?
The RAF Medic is able to handle ambiguity, evaluate complex information and make evidence-based clinical decisions to promote and maintain patient welfare and safety. Typical responsibilities include:
Duty RAF Medics provide airfield medical crash cover and pre-hospital emergency care.
Manage receipt and storage of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals in medical stores, issuing of medications.
Maintain the electronic and paper medical records, monitoring the occupational health of Defence personnel.
What will you do?
The RAF Medic possesses a vast array of knowledge, skills and experience. Air minded, they are capable of delivering care in challenging environments using collaborative working to maximise resources to ensure Defence personnel are fit for task while optimising an effective care pathway from point of injury, anywhere in the world, to the UK. Duties include:
Duty RAF Medics provide airfield medical crash cover and pre-hospital emergency care.
Manage receipt and storage of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals in medical stores, issuing of medications.
Maintain the electronic and paper medical records, monitoring the occupational health of Defence personnel.
If you're already registered as Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Paramedic in civilian life and apply as an RAF Reserves Medic, you can specialise within this role as an RAF Reserves Paramedic.
Requirements at a glance
Have GCSE Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 Grade C in English Language and Maths/Application of Maths
Be aged 16 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday)
You will need to meet specific Nationality and Residency criteria. Please see full details in the Entry Requirements section below
Commit minimum 3 years post Phase Two Training
Meet the health and fitness criteria
Pass the Defence Aptitude Assessment
Pass a Fitness test - Details below
View all entry requirements below
Requirements at a glance
Have GCSE at Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics
Must be one of the following: Registered Paramedic, Ambulance Technician, Emergency Care Assistant (NVQ Level 2/3), or Physicians Associate working in either Pre-Hospital Emergency care or Acute Clinical care setting.
Be aged 18-54. Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 6 months in order to attest before 55th birthday. Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis
You will need to meet specific Nationality and Residency criteria. Please see full details in the Entry Requirements section below
Commit 27 days per year
Pass the Defence Aptitude Assessment
Pass a General Fitness Test
View all entry requirements below
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must be aged between 16 and 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday).
Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
You must have GCSE minimum Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 Grade C in English Language and Maths/Application of Maths
If your qualifications are not listed, or you do not have any qualifications, please Contact Us to learn more about how you can join the Royal Air Force.
NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY
NATIONALITY
You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen since birth (with ‘right to work’ immigration status).
RESIDENCY
Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application, but candidates with a minimum of 3 years may be considered.
If you have resided abroad for a period due to work or study, you may still be eligible on a case by case basis.
This will be established during the selection process.
The Nationality and Residency requirements are the foundation of obtaining the necessary security clearance. The nationalities of your spouse or partner, and parents, are also taken into account among other factors.
There will be further pre-employment checks and you will be expected to achieve the security clearance of Security Check (SC).
Employment restrictions may be imposed in the future if you are unable to achieve an increased security clearance requirement for selected placements.
Security Vetting and Nationality Considerations
RAF security policies are subject to ongoing review, which may impact the eligibility of individuals with dual nationality or direct connections to certain countries to obtain the minimum required level of security vetting. Security vetting is a mandatory requirement for all RAF personnel.
Applicants are welcome to proceed with their application to join the RAF; however, it is important to understand that permanent employment is contingent upon successfully obtaining the appropriate level of security vetting for the chosen role.
If it is determined that an applicant’s nationality or connections may prevent the granting of the required clearance, this could result in the rejection of the application. Additionally, restrictions may apply to the roles available to individuals based on nationality or dual nationality concerns, as outlined by UK government policy.
FITNESS REQUIREMENTS
You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively. Every candidate's fitness levels are tested as part of the application process.
The first of these is the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) which takes place at a fitness centre local to you. This consists of a 2.4km (1.5m) run on a treadmill (set to zero incline)
How fit you need to be to pass this test varies on age and gender. The PJFT requirements are listed on the charts below (Male and Female).
MEN
AGE
2.4 Km Run
(Mins)
15-16
13.52
17-29
13.20
30-34
13.49
35-39
14.14
40-44
14.46
45-49
15.17
50-54
15.53
WOMEN
AGE
2.4 Km Run
(Mins)
15-16
16.22
17-29
15.48
30-34
16.14
35-39
16.44
40-44
17.22
45-49
17.57
50-54
18.34
See here for more information about a training plan
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Candidates joining the RAF must be medically fully fit, both physically and psychologically, to meet the challenges of military service, during which they will be expected to deploy, potentially at short notice, to locations world-wide that are remote from established medical care.
Certain medical conditions could preclude entry to the RAF. Further details can be found in this document.
Body Mass Index (BMI) Information
Why is BMI important?
One of the most common medical causes of delay to candidate’s applications, is falling outside the selection BMI limits. Candidates with a BMI outside the selection limitations are statistically at increased risk of injury during basic training and long-term ill health.
What is BMI?
BMI is calculated using your height and weight. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) classify a healthy BMI as being between 18.5 and 24.9. Some individuals have an elevated BMI due to a high muscle mass. To accommodate individuals with an elevated BMI (up to a maximum of 32) caused by high muscle mass, waist circumference measurements are used.
How to measure your waist circumference
Breathe normally and the waist measurement is to be taken at the end of a normal breath out. Position the tape measure midway between the bottom of the ribcage and the top of the pelvis. The tape should be snug but not compress the skin. If there is difficulty finding the bony landmarks, place the tape at the level of the tummy button.
Calculating your BMI
Calculate your BMI here
BMI Limitations for RAF Selection
Age
BMI minimum
BMI maximum
Male maximum BMI (with additional assessment)
Female maximum BMI (with additional assessment)
18 or over
18
30
32 (waist circumference less than 94cm)
32 (waist circumference less than 80cm)
16 to 17
17
27
27
27
Eyesight
Eyesight standards vary for different roles. Wearing glasses or contact lenses may be allowed.
Health Criteria
If you are unsure about any health criteria, please continue your application and your eligibility will be assessed at the medical examination stage.
During your application, the Medical Risk Assessment that all candidates undergo is there to make sure that you are healthy enough for the intense training required by the RAF. Your application will be rejected if you fail to meet the minimum acceptable medical standard for entry. Your medical history is confidential and is not disclosed to those not authorised to hold this information.
BACKGROUND CHECKS
YOU MUST:
Declare any previous spent and unspent convictions
Check if you qualify under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 through this summary
Achieve the minimum security clearance of Security Check (SC) for this role
DISQUALIFYING FACTORS
YOU CAN'T APPLY FOR THE RAF IF YOU:
Have been or are a member of a group that stirs up racial hatred and violence
Are waiting to appear in court, or have unspent convictions. You may also have to declare spent convictions for certain roles
Misuse drugs, solvents and anabolic steroids. But each case is considered upon its own merits
Have tattoos, brands or bead implants that are obscene or offensive.
Any permanent or temporary tattoos, whether ordinarily visible or not, must not be obscene or offensive (eg, racist, anti-religion or belief, crude, overtly sexist, homophobic, drug related or of an extreme political nature). Tattoos may be worn on the side and back of the neck but tattoos on the back of the neck must not extend above the natural hairline (scalp tattoos are not permitted).
Have body piercing which causes holes that do not close up
Declare yourself to be an 'undischarged' bankrupt
Beard Policy:
Serving personnel can wear a smart, neatly-trimmed, full-set beard. The length of acceptable beards is between Grade 1 (2.5mm) and Grade 8 (25.5mm).
Usually, candidates are to be clean shaven when being fitted for their respirators in Phase One training, however other methods of creating a clean seal can be advised if this is not possible due to religious reasons.
Applicants must be aged 18-54 (and meet all specialist/professional pre-requisites listed below)
Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 6 months in order to attest before 55th birthday. Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis.
Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Have these minimum grades:
GCSE pre-2017
GCSE 2017
Scottish National 5
Mathematics
C
Grade 4
C
English Language
C
Grade 4
C
Must be one of the following: Registered Paramedic, Ambulance Technician, Emergency Care Assistant (NVQ Level 2/3), or Physicians Associate working in either Pre-Hospital Emergency care or Acute Clinical care setting.
If your qualifications are not listed, or you do not have any qualifications, please Contact Us to learn more about how you can join the Royal Air Force.
NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY
Nationality
Be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen since birth ( with indefinite leave to remain immigration status ) .
Residency
Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application. However, candidates with a minimum of 3 years may be considered. If you have resided abroad for a period due to work or study, you may still be eligible on a case by case basis. This will be established during the selection process.
Commonwealth citizens require a minimum of 5 years residency in the UK prior to application.
The Nationality and Residency requirements are the foundation of obtaining the necessary security clearance. The nationalities of your spouse or partner, and parents, are also taken into account among other factors.
There will be further pre-employment checks and you will be expected to achieve the security clearance of Security Check (SC).
Employment restrictions may be imposed in the future if you are unable to achieve an increased security clearance requirement for selected placements.
Security Vetting and Nationality Considerations
RAF security policies are subject to ongoing review, which may impact the eligibility of individuals with dual nationality or direct connections to certain countries to obtain the minimum required level of security vetting. Security vetting is a mandatory requirement for all RAF personnel.
Applicants are welcome to proceed with their application to join the RAF; however, it is important to understand that permanent employment is contingent upon successfully obtaining the appropriate level of security vetting for the chosen role.
If it is determined that an applicant’s nationality or connections may prevent the granting of the required clearance, this could result in the rejection of the application. Additionally, restrictions may apply to the roles available to individuals based on nationality or dual nationality concerns, as outlined by UK government policy.
FITNESS REQUIREMENTS
You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively. Every candidate's fitness levels are tested as part of the application process.
The first of these is the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) which takes place at a fitness centre local to you. This consists of a 2.4km (1.5m) run on a treadmill (set to zero incline)
How fit you need to be to pass this test varies on age and gender. The PJFT requirements are listed on the charts below (Male and Female).
MEN
AGE
2.4 Km Run
(Mins)
15-16
13.52
17-29
13.20
30-34
13.49
35-39
14.14
40-44
14.46
45-49
15.17
50-54
15.53
WOMEN
AGE
2.4 Km Run
(Mins)
15-16
16.22
17-29
15.48
30-34
16.14
35-39
16.44
40-44
17.22
45-49
17.57
50-54
18.34
See here for more information about a training plan
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Candidates joining the RAF must be medically fully fit, both physically and psychologically, to meet the challenges of military service, during which they will be expected to deploy, potentially at short notice, to locations world-wide that are remote from established medical care.
Certain medical conditions could preclude entry to the RAF. Further details can be found in this document.
Body Mass Index (BMI) Information
Why is BMI important?
One of the most common medical causes of delay to candidate’s applications, is falling outside the selection BMI limits. Candidates with a BMI outside the selection limitations are statistically at increased risk of injury during basic training and long-term ill health.
What is BMI?
BMI is calculated using your height and weight. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) classify a healthy BMI as being between 18.5 and 24.9. Some individuals have an elevated BMI due to a high muscle mass. To accommodate individuals with an elevated BMI (up to a maximum of 32) caused by high muscle mass, waist circumference measurements are used.
How to measure your waist circumference
Breathe normally and the waist measurement is to be taken at the end of a normal breath out. Position the tape measure midway between the bottom of the ribcage and the top of the pelvis. The tape should be snug but not compress the skin. If there is difficulty finding the bony landmarks, place the tape at the level of the tummy button.
Calculating your BMI
Calculate your BMI here
BMI Limitations for RAF Selection
Age
BMI minimum
BMI maximum
Male maximum BMI (with additional assessment)
Female maximum BMI (with additional assessment)
18 or over
18
30
32 (waist circumference less than 94cm)
32 (waist circumference less than 80cm)
16 to 17
17
27
27
27
Eyesight
Eyesight standards vary for different roles. Wearing glasses or contact lenses may be allowed.
Health Criteria
If you are unsure about any health criteria, please continue your application and your eligibility will be assessed at the medical examination stage.
During your application, the Medical Risk Assessment that all candidates undergo is there to make sure that you are healthy enough for the intense training required by the RAF. Your application will be rejected if you fail to meet the minimum acceptable medical standard for entry. Your medical history is confidential and is not disclosed to those not authorised to hold this information.
BACKGROUND CHECKS
YOU MUST:
Declare any previous spent and unspent convictions
Check if you qualify under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 through this summary
Achieve the minimum security clearance of Security Check (SC) for this role
DISQUALIFYING FACTORS
YOU CAN'T APPLY FOR THE RAF IF YOU:
Have been or are member of a group that stirs up racial hatred and violence
Are waiting to appear in court, or have unspent convictions. You may also have to declare spent convictions for certain roles
Misuse drugs, solvents and anabolic steroids. But each case is considered upon its own merits
Have tattoos, brands or bead implants that are obscene or offensive.
Any permanent or temporary tattoos, whether ordinarily visible or not, must not be obscene or offensive (eg, racist, anti-religion or belief, crude, overtly sexist, homophobic, drug related or of an extreme political nature). Tattoos may be worn on the side and back of the neck but tattoos on the back of the neck must not extend above the natural hairline (scalp tattoos are not permitted).
Have body piercing which causes holes that do not close up
Declare yourself to be an 'undischarged' bankrupt
Beard Policy:
Serving personnel can wear a smart, neatly-trimmed, full-set beard. The length of acceptable beards is between Grade 1 (2.5mm) and Grade 8 (25.5mm).
Usually, candidates are to be clean shaven when being fitted for their respirators in Phase One training, however other methods of creating a clean seal can be advised if this is not possible due to religious reasons.
If you don’t have any of the above, you might still be able to apply. For more information please contact us.
Apprenticeships available
The RAF is one of the largest providers of diverse apprenticeships in the UK. We offer these apprenticeships for this role:
Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship
Senior Healthcare Support Workers support registered healthcare professionals in the delivery of high quality and compassionate health and care services. They provide clinical, therapeutic or diagnostic care under the direct or indirect supervision of a registered healthcare professional.
View full details
Reserve role locations
Reserve roles exist in specific reserve squadrons, which in turn are located at specific RAF bases. As you will not be resident at those bases (except on multi-day operations or exercises), geographic proximity to where you live is important. These are the bases where this role is active:
612 Sqn, RAF Leuchars, Fife
4626 Sqn, RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire
CAREER, TRAINING & EDUCATION
At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas.
01
Phase one training
Basic Recruit Training
10 weeks
RAF Halton
Your career will start with Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC) at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire.
Read more
10 weeks
RAF Halton
Phase one training
The course is designed to help you adjust to a military environment. As well as fitness and military training, you’ll also learn about the RAF lifestyle.
02
Phase two training
Specialist training
Ongoing
DMA Lichfield
Following Basic Recruit Training you will undertake Medical Training at the Defence Medical Academy (DMA) Lichfield.
Read more
Ongoing
DMA Lichfield
Phase two training
This course covers Anatomy & Physiology, Mental Health conditions, Immediate Emergency Care, ECG recording, Medical Administration, Defence Medical Information Digital Systems, Pharmacy, Medical Stores, Environmental Health and Primary Healthcare training.
The training commences with Tri-Service delivered training to include a Defence Primary Healthcare Placement (Defence GP Surgery) and a Secondary Healthcare (Hospital) Placement. This will be followed by RAF Medic specific training which includes the award of the Immediate Emergence Care Provider qualification. Whilst conducting Phase two training, all RAF Medics also commence the Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship.
03
First tour
Specialist training
Ongoing
As assigned
RAF Medics will undertake a minimum of 2 years within Defence Primary Healthcare (Defence GP Surgery) in the UK or Cyprus
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
First tour
04
Ongoing training
Ongoing development
Ongoing
As assigned
After Phase Two training, you will continue to work through your apprenticeship and achieve the qualification within 18 months of commencement.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Ongoing training
Further employment in specialised areas will attract specialised courses such as, Aeromedical Evacuation, Air Transport Isolator, Practice Management, Battlefield Adavnced Trauma Lise Support, Pre-Hospital Emergency Care, Defence Instructor Training and more.
05
Further qualifications
Ongoing development
Ongoing
As assigned
There are opportunities to gain further qualifications.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Further qualifications
Opportunities are available for:
Foundation and Bachelor Leadership and Management degrees.
Continuous Professional Development Courses.
Specialised role courses.
06
Career progression
Ongoing development
Ongoing
As assigned
Through promotion, experience and competencies, the RAF Medic has further opportunities.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Career progression
Roles available for RAF Medics to work include: Aeromedical Evacuation, Deployable Aeromedical Response Teams, Critical Care Air Support Teams, Special Forces Medical Deployment Teams, Mountain Rescue Teams, Practice Management within a Defence Medical Centre, or Defence Instructor roles to name a few. A small number of places are available on an annual basis for RAF Medics to apply and be selected for Paramedic training.
Your career will be managed closely by your Career Manager who will work with you and endeavour to provide you with a diverse and challenging career. The RAF continues to offer a range of opportunities to serve in challenging roles throughout the UK and overseas.
07
Transferable skills
Ongoing development
Ongoing
As assigned
The qualifications and experience you will gain are as valuable in the wider world as they are in the RAF.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Transferable skills
This will help you find civilian roles in Clinical, Management, Leadership, Coaching, Mentorship, Communication, Decision making, Teamwork.
TRAINING AND CAREER
At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas.
01
Phase one training
Basic Recruit Training
25 days (split)
RAF Halton
Your first steps with us will be your Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC).
Read more
25 days (split)
RAF Halton
Phase one training
This will consist of 10 days training primarily at your chosen Reserves Support Wing. The breakdown of this can be discussed with your recruiter.
This is followed by a 15-day residential course at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. The course is designed to help you adjust to a military environment. All Phase One training should be completed within your first year in RAF Reserves.
02
Phase two training
Specialist Training
Ongoing
DMS Lichfield
Following BRTC you will undertake the Immediate Emergency Care Provider (IECP) training at the Defence Medical Academy at DMS Lichfield, Staffordshire.
Read more
Ongoing
DMS Lichfield
Phase two training
This course includes an introduction to military equipment, emergency procedures and an element of trauma and patient care. (Registered Paramedics are exempt from IECP). Additional training will be delivered online and during Training Weekends.
03
Commitment
Ongoing training
Ongoing
As assigned
We ask that you commit to a minimum of 27 days each year with us.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Commitment
This will mean you can get the most out of your role as a Reserve and provide value to us.
Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises. You could also be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after your first year with us.
04
Ongoing development
Ongoing training
Ongoing
As assigned
You will have valuable personal development opportunities together with the chance to work around the world, gaining unique experiences in the process.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Ongoing development
As well as RAF training packages and courses linked to outside professional bodies, we actively support individual study programmes at every level.
05
Transferable skills
Ongoing training
Ongoing
As assigned
Much of our in-house training is accredited or recognised by external awarding bodies.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Transferable skills
The skills you learn with us as a Reserve will complement those that you use in the wider world, providing value at work and at home too.
WHY JOIN THE RAF?
Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket.
Rent from £75p/m
Free gym
Subsidised food
Health care
World travel
Training
View all benefits
WHY JOIN THE RESERVES?
The skills you acquire as a Reserve won’t just prepare you for the RAF, they will enhance your work and civilian life.
You might be called up to assist with our operations worldwide for up to six months, during which you may be able to claim a pay award to cover your and your employer’s costs.
Training
Free gym
Subsidised food
Paid pension
Paid holiday
View all benefits
COMMITMENT AND LOCATION
You will have to commit to 27 days per year. Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises.
You might be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after the first year.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING
Joining the RAF takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are.
1
Aptitude Test
2
Selection Interviews
3
Health Assessment
4
Fitness Test
5
Acceptance
6
Training
1
Aptitude Test
Stage 1 of 6
The aptitude test has been designed to ensure you’re a good fit for the role you’re applying for. You’ll answer six multiple choice sections which each focus on a different skill:
Verbal reasoning - use and interpretation of written information
Numerical reasoning - ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulae
Work rate - speed and accuracy of tasks
Spatial reasoning - how shapes and objects work
Electrical comprehension - working with electrical concepts
Mechanical comprehension - grasp of mechanical concepts
Click here to find out more about the Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA) or try the online practice test.
2
Selection Interviews
Stage 2 of 6
Here’s where we get to know you a little better. You’ll get to showcase your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining us. Your interview will take place at a local AFCO and cover the following topics:
Family life
Education
Work experience
Special interests and hobbies
Interest in the RAF
Training
The role you’ve applied for
The RAF
You’ll be asked a series of standard questions, and you’ll be able to ask your own questions during the debrief afterwards. Some roles require a second interview and/ or test to determine your suitability.
These are normally conducted over a 1-3 day period at an RAF base where you’ll be able to see, and experience, the kind of environment you’ll be working in. Details about which interviews are relevant for you will be provided during the application process.
3
Health Assessment
Stage 3 of 6
You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index.
We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. View details below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.
4
Fitness Test
Stage 4 of 6
A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFC). This will take place at a local gym near to you, and is a 2.4km run.
The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation here .
5
Acceptance
Stage 5 of 6
Once you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process you’ll be invited to a provisional offer of service interview at your nearest AFCO.
This is to ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of service in the RAF, are fully committed to joining, and prepared to commence training.
6
Training
Stage 6 of 6
Basic Recruit Training
This takes place over 10 weeks at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. It will make you fitter and more confident. It will challenge you mentally and physically, and it will prepare you for your career with us. There are 6 phases:
Arrival - You’ll be sworn into the RAF and be given a service number
General Service training - You’ll learn about marching, drills, core values and our code of conduct
Initial Force Protection training - Fighting and survival in a military environment
Exercise Blue Warrior - 4 days in the field with real battle conditions
Force development training - Apply your skills in new environments with adventurous training activities
Graduation - Learn about what’s required in your first post and display your new skills
What next?
Now you’re a fully-fledged member of the RAF you can receive role specific training.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING
Joining the RAF as a Reserve takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are.
1
Squadron information event
2
Selection interview
3
Health assessment
4
Fitness test
5
Acceptance
6
Training
1
Squadron information event
Stage 1 of 6
The first step in the application process invites you to attend a squadron information event. This could be either in person or online. At this event, there is an opportunity for you to speak to the squadron of your choice and ask questions. You will get to find out what life is like in the RAF Reserves and learn more about the specialisation you are interested in.
2
Selection interview
Stage 2 of 6
Here’s where we get to know you a little better. You’ll get to showcase your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining us. Your interview will take place at a local AFCO and cover the following topics:
Family life
Education
Work experience
Special interests and hobbies
Interest in the RAF
Training
The role you’ve applied for
The RAF
You’ll be asked a series of standard questions, and you’ll be able to ask your own questions during the debrief afterwards. Some roles require a second interview and/ or test to determine your suitability. These are normally conducted over a 1-3 day period at an RAF base where you’ll be able to see, and experience, the kind of environment you’ll be working in. Details about which interviews are relevant for you will be provided during the application process.
3
Health assessment
Stage 3 of 6
You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index.
We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. Please refer to entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.
4
Fitness test
Stage 4 of 6
A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFC). This will take place at a local gym near to you, and is a 2.4km run.
The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation here .
5
Acceptance
Stage 5 of 6
If you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process, you will be invited to a provisional offer of service interview at your Squadron.
The purpose of this interview is to ensure you understand the terms and conditions of service in the RAF, are fully committed to joining, and prepared to commence training.
6
Training
Stage 6 of 6
Basic Recruit Training
Basic recruit training takes place at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire over a 15-day period. This residential course includes an introduction to life in the RAF Reserves, military skills training, drills, field training, and team-building exercises.
What’s next?
After basic recruit training, you will go on to receive role specific training in your spare time.
APPLY NOW
Got what it takes? Start your application here.
APPLY NOW
Got what it takes? Start your application here.
Apply as a Reserve
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