Timescales

Just a quick update on time scales so you have some idea of how long the process takes.

I started my process in April with my initial visit to the AFCO. I didn't apply at the time as I was interested in an NCO aircrew job but slightly cautious about where it might lead in later life (hint: not far). I went back in a couple of weeks to apply for the Aircraft Tech.

When I went in the second time and said I would be applying, I was booked in for my AST for mid-may. That gives you between a month and 6 weeks from deciding to apply and the process really kicking off. What happens next depends on your choice of trade. If it is currently unavailable (as my first choice was) you must either wait for recruiting to reopen for that position, or choose one that is currently open.

Choosing to wait may take a long time. I currently know someone that started the application before I did and now has to wait til April before her trade choice opens up. So be prepared for that wait. Pick a trade thats open however, and you'll get straight on with it. My formal interview was within a week of my AST.

After my interview, my medical was within two weeks and my fitness booked for mid-june. Meaning to this point, initial appointment to fitness test was two months. Sadly I was injured so my fitness test had to be re-booked.

Some trades have a 'specialist interview' to make sure you're completely suitable for the job at hand, but then that's your lot. All thats left is waiting for your 'offer of service' and your dates for going to Halton (someone recently accepted has her start date end of October so still a little bit of time)

Unfortunately, I only have experiance in the enlisted airman/airwoman process so for anyone going officer or NCO aircrew, you'll have to find someone who's done it or rely on the 'several months' the RAF careers site mentions.

Any questions, let me know =)