What's the deal?

Every member of staff gets something different from the organisation, so it's hard to define whats in it for you, but for many of our staff the same theme runs through their commitment.

For many of our cadets, the RAFAC provides them with stability and a challenge that they struggle to find elsewhere. Our classification and rank system provide them with a sense of achievement, real leadership experience and the opportunity to learn to work in a team in a safe environment, whilst learning valuable life skills from our staff.

Whilst the cadets enjoy the activities we offer the real benefit is seen in the longer term, for example when learning how to shoot cadets learn how to follow safety systems when using dangerous equipment, when they take part in adventure training they learn to operate outside their familiar environment, when they go on camps they learn to meet new people and quickly build working relationships with them. When they take part in sports they learn to win and lose with dignity. When they complete leadership courses they learn to communicate with others. They both learn to be successful, and also develop the resilience that comes from failure and learning how to manage that.

These are all skills that they will take with them into the workplace (be it military or civil) that they don't get to  learn elsewhere.

As a member of the staff team, you'll help deliver these experiences and learning outcomes. You'll lead then, encourage them and watch them grown. You'll support them through both good and bad times, you'll help them celebrate success, and you'll help pick them up when things don't go to plan, but above all you'll give them a head start in life.

You'll see confused 12 year olds developing into future leaders, you'll see 14 year olds with a lack of confidence develop from your experience, you'll see them join the services or go onto higher education, you'll see them make their first flight, you'll see them start their working lives with the right attitude and skill set, and you'll often be exhausted, but deep down you'll be able to look in the mirror and say "I made a difference for that child and my community".

You'll have some expenses paid and depending on your position can be paid a volunteer allowance for your time. You can receive specialist training that can help you develop your skills, as well as (in uniformed roles) attending leadership courses at the RAF College Cranwell which can help with your civilian career. If you go over and above for a sustained period of time, you'll also be eligible for nomination for honours and awards in the military lists as well as long service medals.

Think about the day you retire, do you want to think "I could have tried that" or "I gave it my best and I made a difference to many peoples lives". That long term satisfaction begins with a quick visit to your local unit. 

For more information, complete our contact form here.