Hi there. I served as an Airframe/Engine technician from '95-04, originally joining with the intent of commissioning as a Pilot.
Alas, being a young, foolhardy airman - I decided drinking and general 'high spirits' were far better than making use of the opportunities the RAF presents, such as flying & gliding clubs, further education, Enhanced Learning Credits etc.
You can indeed go on to become a civil CPL/ATPL, and the training the RAF provides will stand you in good ground, but make sure you grab every opportunity you can to make your future training as smooth as possible.
I am now mid/late 30's, and struggling with the theory element of self study CPL(H), even though I went on to gain a HND in aircraft engineering!