Callum,
I’ll also back up what bob said. No matter how few the RAF are recruiting, you only need there to be ONE place available to be in with a shot.
So don’t fall at the first hurdle. I, like many of my colleagues had a lifelong dream to join the RAF as a pilot. I’m very lucky to be doing my job (and often wonder how/why I got here). If your heart is set on it then give it your all. You also have time on your side-in a few years the recruitment may be a different picture in terms of numbers.
You can always leave the military at a later date. However, if you go down the civil route, in a few years time the door will be closed to a military career due to age.
If you do decide to join, do so because you want to be a military pilot, rather than as a stepping stone. Make the most out of your time in the military. Many then subsequently have a second career in the civil world, having enjoyed a military career first.
Good luck!