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

[OASC]

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