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OFFICER and AIRCREW 'CANDIDATES' PLEASE READ THIS THREAD FIRST!

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OFFICER and AIRCREW 'CANDIDATES' PLEASE READ THIS THREAD FIRST!

Old 14th Aug 2010, 16:32
  #281 (permalink)  
 
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Re-application

Hello to all!

Just getting some general consensus on when would be a good time to resubmit my application to the RAF. My first and only visit to OASC was back in August 2008 where, unfortunately I was temporarily barred from service for 4 years due to previous medical problems. In the letter from the president of the medical board he said I would not be eligible for consideration at OASC until May 2011. What i want to know is what time does everyone think would be a good time to start the application process again, so i could get to OASC as close into May as possible. I was thinking around christmas time.

Thanks in advance,
Eddie
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Old 14th Aug 2010, 17:15
  #282 (permalink)  
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Eddie, good thinking. Suppose you did start in Christmas and then you tell them you had a recommendation to re-apply in May 2011 (although that is less than 3 years by my reckoning) they will either say 'come back in May' or come back in 2012, or even say no problem start now.

From their point of view they will never wish to lose a good candidate simply through a bureaucratic system.

However if the docs say 4 years the they may well mean Aug 2012. I see your dilemma.
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Old 15th Aug 2010, 12:08
  #283 (permalink)  
 
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Do remember that recruitment at the moment is as near to zero as it's likely to be, with many branches closed. Before you start thinking about when you should apply to get yourself through the door asap, talk to the AFCO about whether there's even any point doing so for your branch yet.

You might find your wait is being lengthened as we speak.
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Old 15th Aug 2010, 12:29
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Ambiguity

This question originates from at least 2 sources, first of all qualities of a transformational leader and secondly effective followership. If you google these or look on businessballs you will get more information.
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Old 15th Aug 2010, 12:54
  #285 (permalink)  
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X34, whose question are you answering?
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Old 16th Aug 2010, 08:43
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OASC Bulletin 19

John had now completed all aspects of the OASC selection process but was still awaiting his final medical and security clearances. The next event was attendance at the Initial Officer Training (IOT) Familiarization Visit. While he was waited for the date of the visit to arrive, he continued to work hard on his fitness and kept abreast of what was going on in the world. Finally, the date arrived for him to return to RAF Cranwell to attend the Visit. This week we follow John through the Familiarization Visit.

John arrived at the Candidates’ Mess by car around mid-morning. He unloaded his bags into his room and then walked over to the Mess to meet the other people who were on the Visit. After they had finished lunch, they received a welcome briefing by Officer and Aircrew Cadet Training Unit (OACTU) staff and filled in some paperwork. The group was then split into 2. John’s group walked a short way to Clothing Stores where they were measured up for their uniforms and sized for boots and shoes. They would get to keep their boots and working shoes so that they could break them in before they started training. They remained at the Stores for nearly 2 hours, before walking back to the Candidates’ Mess to be shown around the facilities properly and also to be shown a bedroom and how a cadet would be expected to maintain it to inspection standard. Once this presentation was complete, there was a short break before the candidates were driven to College Hall Officers’ Mess (CHOM) so that they could have dinner and discuss IOT with Term 3 cadets. This gave John the opportunity to get a real understanding of what to expect – so he asked lots of questions. Finally, they were driven back to the Candidates’ Mess at 2100hrs. Living in CHOM seemed a long way off to the candidates as they discussed their experiences over a drink in the bar.

The following morning, immediately after breakfast, John’s group was driven to Whittle Hall, which was, in essence, the training centre for IOT cadets. For the next 2 hours, the candidates were asked to write a ‘My Life’ essay outlining everything that they had done, experienced and achieved in life so far. As soon as that was complete, it was over to the gym to get changed into sports kit to take part in the OACTU Fitness Assessment (OFA). This was similar to the Selection Fitness Test at OASC, although the 1.5 mile run was to be completed outside rather than on a treadmill in the gym. John had been working hard on his fitness and performed well in the assessment as he knew that failure in any element of the OFA would result in his allocation to IOT being reviewed and possibly cancelled. The Physical Training Instructors then gave the candidates a briefing on what to expect during IOT from a physical viewpoint before discussing the results of the OFA. John achieved a Green standard but there was one individual who only achieved a Red and was told he would have to repeat the Visit. Everybody had to achieve at least an Amber in order to be accepted onto IOT. That concluded the morning’s activities. After lunch, the candidates were shepherded to the Main Guard Room so that they could have their photographs taken for their access passes. Then it was back to Whittle Hall again to receive a briefing from the RAF Regiment staffs about how to look after their feet during training, followed by a briefing from the OACTU staff covering all elements of the IOT course. After a short question and answer period, the Visit was complete and the candidates were free to leave. John was very focussed on the task ahead and knew that, pending his medical and security clearances, his next event would be to commence IOT in less than 2 months’ time.

A week or so after the Familiarization Visit, John received his final letter of acceptance from OASC, stating that his arrangements to start IOT had been finalised and gave details of when he would need to arrive at RAF Cranwell to commence training. The letter went on to state his conditions of service and gave some other useful pieces of information, including a list of documents that he would require to bring with him in order to provide a means of identification.

We have now completed John’s journey from selection through to him commencing IOT. It has been a long journey and one that has required a great deal of effort and determination on his part. For some people, the journey can take much longer if they are found to be temporarily unfit at the medical stage of the process or if they do not maintain their fitness to an adequate level. But, for John, he is about to embark on a thoroughly challenging but rewarding career in the RAF as a pilot. However, his work has only just begun….

For more information regarding any of these areas highlighted, please contact your AFCO and they will be able to give you more detailed information regarding specific cases.

Please note that, although OASC will endeavour to answer generic questions that arise, we will not be engaging or commenting on individual cases. In those cases, the individual is advised to contact their nearest AFCO who will be able to deal with any queries. All information published is for information only.

Information regarding a career in the RAF can be found at http://www.raf.mod.uk/careers
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Old 16th Aug 2010, 12:12
  #287 (permalink)  
 
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My oasc experiance

Afternoon,

I applied last June and was sucessful at OASC being told that I had been granted a bursary for pilot for my last year at uni. However, I then received a letter from the medical board stating that I was permanently medically unfit for all air and controller branches due to one case of migraine being on my record in 1996 (when I was 8)
I have been fighting this case since then, as migraine doesnt' effect me and have seen a specialist, hunted down the initial neurologist, who has written a letter saying that the diagnosis was wrong (stating migraine was given simply to give my headache at the time a label...great!)seen numerous GPs and spoken with several high rankers within the airforce who all claim that my application remaining barred is ludacris. However, the medical board at Cranwell refuse to budge on the issue stating that it is policy to take the initial diagnosis and the door was "very much shut and maybe I should try the Army as they take anyone"( great professionalism) As I am a member of a University Air Squadron, my boss there (a squadron leader) has been great and continued to fight my case and a couple of days ago I received a letter from a wing commander stating that I was to attend a military hospital to see a military neurologist and his/her decision would be final. I was filled with hope again, however I have now been told that even though the decision is with the neurologist, the medical board will more than likely still say no (even if the decision is made that my "migraines" are no risk) and my application will remiained barred.
Does anyone know why this is the case? does the medical board work independantly of everyone else and speak to noone?! eventhough different people keep telling me different things. If this recruitment process occured in any other organisation, I think there would be outcry!
Obviously I still would love to be offered a place and unfortunately will remain jumping through hoops if it means I can get there but I think it is crazy that this has happened for now over a year and there is still no definite answer.( the medical appointment could be another 15 weeks away!)
Thoughts would be greatly appreciated giving advice, ideas, critism etc!
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Old 16th Aug 2010, 17:41
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To Treebeard 04
If you read my post above you will see that I have also had a run-in with the Medical board and whilst mine is only a temporary ban I fought tooth and nail to get the decision overturned, tracking down the original GP who said it was a mis-diagnosis and my current GP to write about my entire respiratory health and history to no avail. I also got a letter saying the ban still stood. I think it is promising that you are being seen by a military neurologist, if they didn't want you they wouldn't of wasted their time setting it up. Just keep on banging down those doors!

To Pontius Navigator
Thanks for the reply. It was my fault for not being clearer. The reason for my bar from service was in my medical records, not discovered whilst at OASC. So it was 4 years from the date of the diagnosis (or mis-diagnosis!). The letter from the President of the medical board states May 2011 as the next time I will be eligable. Just add a bit of clarity!
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Old 17th Aug 2010, 22:30
  #289 (permalink)  
 
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I'm aware that most branches throughout the RAF are currently not recruiting. However, is there anywhere that I would be able to find a list of the branches that are currently recruiting? I'm interested in becoming an Air Traffic Control Officer or a Weapons Systems Operator.

I'm going into the city centre tomorrow to have a chat at the AFCO and see what is available.
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Old 18th Aug 2010, 18:12
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Planet Pyramid - you've answered your own question!
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Old 19th Aug 2010, 16:02
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what is the general consensus about the following:

I received a letter from cranwell saying that i should "re-apply in 3 months" because I am "temporarily unfit" for selection (quoted from the medical letter i received). However I have started training and have been pushing myself again, and am near the fitness that I was before the op.

I rang my afco and argued this, and they've managed to keep me in the pipeline, but defer the phonecall to get a date from cranwell until november 1st. This is incredibly frustrating as I am at 95% fitness now, and can easily beat the targets set for the fitness test.

Is it worth me ringing early september to push my luck to get a date for cranwell, as it is between 6-10 weeks waiting anyway, which would take me over the 3 month "unfit period" that cranwell seemed to have dropped me in. Or should i get a doctors note to try and back it up?

I'm worried because the defence review is in october, and who knows what could happen, and i'd like a chance at OASC at least

opinions?
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Old 19th Aug 2010, 18:23
  #292 (permalink)  
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Chris, worst case, you push, you get accepted early, you fail.

The medics a always have the last say. Now use that extra 3 months, improve your knowledge and go easy on the fitness. Aim to be fit by mid-Oct.

Three months in the great scheme of things is nothing at all, you are still in the pipeline.
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Old 21st Aug 2010, 15:27
  #293 (permalink)  
 
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Thanks FUBAR and Pontius . Yet again I find the RAF website is out of date on a number of issues
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Old 25th Aug 2010, 19:47
  #294 (permalink)  
 
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had a station visit today at RAF Odiham, inspiring to say the least, a BIG eye opener, and apart from 100% fixing my head on Rotary Crewman (should i be successful), i'm definitely going to be waiting the extra time, need to be much fitter, will be joining a gym this weekend and starting 1.5hours a day 5 days a week next monday
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Old 26th Aug 2010, 07:11
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OASC Bulletin 20

During this submission, we would like to cover what we deem to be an essential pre-requisite before coming to the Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre (OASC) to apply for Weapons Systems Operator (WSOp). The following has been written by an individual who has recently attended a 55 Sqn visit and is working hard towards his goal of becoming a WSOp in the RAF.

“As someone who has attended the visit, it is extremely beneficial to all potential WSOp candidates to attend the familiarisation visit. Attendees are left in no doubt about the training they will go through and the standards that are required on the Non Commissioned Aircrew Initial Training Course (NCAITC) and beyond. We received a number of briefings as outlined below.”

OASC Brief:

After a welcome from OC 55 Sqn, we received a briefing from an OASC boarding officer about the selection process. The OASC briefing included tips and advice to potential candidates on how to prepare and succeed.

NCAITC:

The candidates were given a comprehensive break down of the NCAITC. Emphasis was placed on fitness, teamwork and the need to get into the scenarios of the various exercises. The attendees were also shown the ‘A Sqn’ building where cadets would be accommodated during their course. The standard of cleanliness and hygiene required of the accommodation block was demonstrated.

Physical Training:

Fitness was the key issue here. Emphasis was placed on pre-entry training and why the standard was so high. Ultimately, the arduous tasks that cadets would be set, and the role of the WSOp thereafter, pre-determined the fitness requirement. Tips on training prior to arrival were also briefed so that there were no excuses for turning up to the NCAITC unprepared.

WSOp Trades:

A specialist from each WSOp trade gave a 15 minute presentation outlining their take on the training for their specialisation and what the job actually involved on the front line. They also discussed the aircraft types that they could be employed on both now and in the future.

55 (R) Sqn:

At 55 (R) Sqn, we were shown where the generic and specialist ground training would be carried out. Then we were shown the radar and acoustic simulators followed by the Air Navigation Trainers, which would be used for the flying phase of the sensor specialist training.

Crewman Hangar:

Finally, to cover all aspects of the specialisations, we were taken to the crewman training hangar to look at life-sized mock ups of C17, C130K and CH47 aircraft for trainee crewmen to practice loading and unloading drills.

“Individuals will be asked about the WSOp branches during their interview at the OASC. Attending the 55 Sqn Visit should arm the candidate with enough information to discuss the branch during the interview with credibility and confidence. It also looks good on the candidate’s profile if they have attended as it shows that they are motivated to further their knowledge of the branch that they wish to enter”

55(R) Sqn hosts a formal visit for potential WSOp and ATC Senior NCO Direct Entrant candidates on the last Thursday of every month. Potential candidates can book a place on the 55(R) Sqn visit by contacting their nearest AFCO. Note from the OASC: We cannot emphasize enough the need to be physically fit to undertake NCAITC.

For more information regarding any of these areas highlighted, please contact your AFCO and they will be able to give you more detailed information regarding specific cases.

Please note that, although OASC will endeavour to answer generic questions that arise, we will not be engaging or commenting on individual cases. In those cases, the individual is advised to contact their nearest AFCO who will be able to deal with any queries. All information published is for information only.

Information regarding a career in the RAF can be found at http://www.raf.mod.uk/careers
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Old 27th Aug 2010, 21:03
  #296 (permalink)  
 
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Some good news to report (if anyone is interested) - I've submitted my doctor letter/note to the AFCO and I can now run the 1.5 mile run in 11mins 30 secs with is 41 secs under the required time (proof enough that asthma is not an issue for me)!

PS - in regards to the letter that I submitted, does anyone know what will now happen to it and roughly how long it'll take for me to get a response? I'm assuming it'll get sent to Cranwell.
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Old 27th Aug 2010, 22:45
  #297 (permalink)  
 
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El S, not trying to pour scorn on your parade, but 11.30 is nothing to be proud of, if you're not running close to or better than the 10.18 green standard by the start of IOT then -under current rules- your place is at stake.
It might well scrape in at the lower end of the scale (although I'm not sure about that) but don't ease up now.
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Old 28th Aug 2010, 01:00
  #298 (permalink)  
 
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^^^ I'm not overly proud of 11:30 though I am pleased that I've brought that time down from 12:10ish within a month. I think I could go faster now, it's just difficult to judge it when you're running on a treadmill. Could you explain to me what the green standard means? What's the point in having a max time if they want you to run 2 minutes faster than it?
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Old 28th Aug 2010, 09:03
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ES,

See Fitness test standards - E-Goat :: The Totally Unofficial Royal Air Force Rumour Network forums for the scores.
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Old 28th Aug 2010, 09:44
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If you suffer from asthma or have done in the past, you cannot be considered for flying branches of the RAF.
Taken from the document THIS PAGE ON THE RAF CAREERS WEBSITE refers to.

It seems they have gone to hard rules in these hard times.

I can now run the 1.5 mile run in 11mins 30 secs with is 41 secs under the required time (proof enough that asthma is not an issue for me)!
Distinctly different demand on the body to breathing through a mask whilst flying at altitude. I think a more scientific approach is usually employed to assess such things.
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