News
October 23rd 2013
Graduate gets Reserve experience
A university graduate from Chesterfield in Derbyshire has grabbed an opportunity to gain work experience with both hands by joining the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) Reserve Intelligence Squadron.
Lucy, aged 22 years, whose surname cannot be revealed due to the nature of her military role, explained that after studying at Aberystwyth University for 3 years and completing her studies she has not yet secured the correct civilian job opportunity for her in the current challenging job market.
Lucy said: “I’ve always had an interest in joining the Reserve forces as I have grown up hearing about different military roles through my family.
“When I found out the Intelligence unit were recruiting I thought that this was an opportunity too good to miss as this experience would complement my degree in International Politics and increase my future career prospects in the civilian job market.
“Although I don’t have a firm idea in mind regarding what company or organisation I want to work for in my civilian life, my new military commitments will run alongside any future commitments.
“I’d recommend joining the Reserves to anyone leaving university. It’s good fun and has allowed me to meet some new friends, increase my knowledge, leadership skills, increase my physical fitness and earn money at the same time. I will be specialising in the Intelligence trade so I’m going to be going on to further training soon.”
Lucy joined the unit, based at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire, in July this year and has successfully passed each of her training and assessment exercises to date.
RAF Reservists generally train one weekend each month although a few Squadrons may have a mid-week training evening. During the year they will be expected to complete a 15 day Annual Continuation Training period and they may have the opportunity to participate in various exercises, expeditions or adventurous activities either in the UK or aboard.
RAF Reserves can earn from £36.03 to £112.37 per day depending on rank plus receive an annual tax free Bounty of between £428 – £1691 subject to length of service and meeting annual training requirements.
To find out more about joining any of the RAF Reserve Intelligence Squadrons or to attend a RAF Reserve Intelligence Information Day at RAF Waddington please speak to Mrs Roz King Tel:01522 726291 or email: AWC-HQIntResGroupMailbox@mod.uk
To find out more about RAF Reserves visit: www.RAF.mod.uk/rafreserves
