RAF Apprenticeships - an introduction
Altitude look at the advantages of gaining qualifications in the RAF.
RAF Apprenticeships are a great chance for new recruits to gain nationally recognised qualifications while they complete their basic training. Packed with excellent facilities (and teachers!), RAF bases are great places to learn, and offer a useful stepping stone for people looking to advance quickly through the ranks.
Here, we answer some of the key questions about Apprenticeships – equipping you with the basic knowledge you need before choosing which area to specialise in.
Q. How many Apprenticeships do the RAF offer?
A. At the moment, the RAF offer Apprenticeships in 14 different disciplines. A new Apprenticeship – Fire Fighting in the Community – is currently being designed for future RAF Fire Fighters.
Q. Why do the RAF offer Apprenticeships?
A. RAF personnel work with the most advanced equipment in the military world. And as the tools they use change, RAF staff must adapt and learn in order to stay ahead of the enemy. It’s therefore important for all RAF personnel to have a healthy attitude towards learning.
The RAF have made a pledge to ensure all staff have the opportunity to gain six Key Skills and a Level 2 NVQ while in the service. Qualifications like this also stand personnel in good stead for when they leave the Force and return to civilian life.
Q. How many Apprentices are on each scheme?
A. Currently, there are over 1,700 RAF Apprentices (including over 200 women) studying in disciplines as wide-ranging as Aeronautical Engineering and Information Communication Technology. Also, over 100 RAF Apprentices are aiming for further NVQs having finished their Apprenticeships.
Q.Why should I do an RAF Apprenticeship?
A. Training while you earn. Nationally recognised qualifications. A great salary at the end of it. RAF Apprenticeships offer the same benefits as civilian ones – but in the kind of learning environment the RAF prides itself in.
For example, following a recent inspection into an RAF facility, Ofsted found:
- Very high success rates
- Good development of learners’ practical skills
- Very good resources to enhance and develop learning
- Particularly good welfare and vocational support for learners
- Good planning, co-ordination and performance management
Plus, because RAF Apprenticeships take place during training (except for a small part to complete afterwards), Apprentices benefit from all the usual advantages of being a part of the RAF – like subsidised food and rent, free medical care, and access to the RAF’s top gym and sports facilities.
With all this on offer, it’s no wonder 97% of all RAF Apprentices passed last year.
Q.Are there further opportunities to train during your time in the RAF?
A. Yes. Higher level qualifications include everything from NVQs in Leadership and Management for Non-commissioned Officers, to advanced training for Airmen and Airwomen who joined the RAF without degrees, but still want to become Officers.
Q. Where do Apprentices live?
A. Just like full-time RAF staff, Apprentices live on base – where there’s a great social life and all the other free and subsidised Apprenticeship benefits which have been mentioned.
Q. Can Apprentices leave the station during their time off?
A. Of course. Outside working hours, it’s possible to come and go as you please. Most stations are close to major towns, and have good transport – though RAF bases are like small towns themselves, where you can do anything from playing pool to watching the latest flicks at the cinema.
