Info
SevenO,
Hi,
There are many good reasons for your son to apply for NCA and, as you have been able to read for yourself, many reasons to consider another career path. Firstly there are a number of hoops to jump through - educational, medical, suitability etc. More info on all of these can be obtained via the ‘sticky’ at the top of this forum. Make sure the AFCO are aware of your son’s aspirations to become NCA. They should all have the ‘glossies’ and a very informative DVD/Video showing all NCA specialisations. They will also be able to arrange a visit – last Thursday of each month – to 55(R) Sqn at RAF Cranwell - where he will have a series of open forum talks on all aspects of selection, training and roles. They will have to arrange this through the TCO on 55.
Up until this time, 70% of the students on the generic courses have been able to obtain their first choice of specialisation, with a further 15% their second choice. This obviously depends on the current priorities of manning platforms, the individuals preference and also their suitability – and greatest potential to succeed – as discussed by the streaming board.
As a further incentive to bright school/6th form college leavers, is the fact that they can now obtain 240 of the 360 credits required towards a foundation degree in aeronautical studies – in partnership with Derby University. Not a bad deal when one considers the financial ‘sponsorship’ the RAF are providing during their time in training. However, the payback comes later with some bloody hard work in dangerous conditions doing an exciting and rewarding job with some of the best mates you will make in your life – I wish him well with his application. PM if you want to know more.
Regards,
Judge Rembrandt.