CJ, for what it's worth what everyone has said above is about right. The only things that I'd add are the extras that a military career brings you in terms of what you can do on the outside in later years. If you just want to control then nowadays there's little difference between joining as a junior officer and a direct entrant senior non-commissioned officer. However, as a JO you will be expected to take on additional responsibilities much sooner than as a SNCO. In terms of how your career will be viewed in civvy street once you get the other side, clearly a lot depends on how long you stay in for. However, skills such as leadership and resource management are a key part of being in the military and sought after outside. There are still (some) opportunities for adventure training and sport and you will end up being deployed at some point within your first 3 years (unless we escape Afghan sooner rather than later). It is a fantastic experience but is not a quick route into civil controlling. Although it sounds trite to say it, the only other thing that I'd say is that if you're not committed 110% to joining the RAF then the selection board at Cranwell will find that out. There are vacancies, despite the redundancies but competition is fierce. Good luck whatever you choose to do!
