News
June 21st 2023
Swimming teacher praises unique opportunities within the RAF Reserves
A swimming teacher who joined the RAF Reserves in search for new experiences is encouraging others to follow her path.
Air Specialist Class 1 Kathryn Corbett successfully applied to join 504 Squadron of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force (RAuxAF) in 2019.
She said: “I was looking for something completely different to my day job that would give me some new experiences, a part time role that would fit in with my family and work.”
AS1 Corbett has since been deployed on Operation Unity-MACA, providing security to venues at the 2022 Commonwealth Games; and Operation Golden Orb, parading within the RAuxAF contingent at King Charles’ Coronation.
In between work, family time and on top of her regular RAF Reserves drill nights and occasional training weekends, she has also been involved as a driver with Exercise Cobra Warrior, the RAF’s largest air exercise; and practised a major incident response on Exercise Auxilium Fort.
She added: “I love the extra opportunities that come my way as a Reservist. The role is great. I’ve had some fantastic experiences driving vehicles, and taking part in tasks.
“Outside of the trade, I have taken part in mountain biking, sea kayaking, range days firing live weaponry, employment engagement events, recruitment events, heritage visits and I’ve been involved in producing media content for the Squadron – it’s a diverse role.
“There really is a place for everyone. There’s so much flexibility within the Reserves to fit around your family and work, everyone’s journey is different.
“The experiences that you can get are so unique, and the people who are in the Reserves are the icing on the cake.”
