Driver

What will you do?

As a driver you will be required to drive and operate a wide range of general and specialist vehicles, from Passenger Carrying Vehicles (PCV, which include cars, minibuses and coaches), to both rigid and articulated Large Goods Vehicles (LGV). You will be responsible for making sure RAF personnel, equipment and vehicles get to the right place, at the right time. In your role you will:

Drive a range of vehicles throughout the UK, Europe, and on worldwide operational deployment or field exercises, both on roads and over rough terrain Train and operate specialist vehicles supporting the RAF’s airfields in the UK and worldwide Transport personnel and goods (including hazardous materials) between units using Large Goods Vehicles, coaches and Troop Carrying Vehicles Refuel aircraft using tankers, clear runways of snow and ice using specialist airfield support vehicles and transport freight with complex trailers Minimum education requirements No formal qualifications required  Minimum education requirements No formal qualifications required  Requirements Be aged 17 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday) Be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen since birth (with ‘right to work’ immigration status) Commit to minimum 3 years post Phase Two Training Have a provisional UK DVLA driving licence with no penalty points or driving bans - See full details below Meet the fitness and health criteria Pass the Pass a Fitness test - Details below Requirements Be aged 18-54 Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 9 months in order to attest before 55th birthday Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis Commit 27 days per year Be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen (with indefinite leave to remain immigration status) since birth and meet RAF residency requirements. Must hold a Full UK Driving Licence with no endorsements Pass the Pass a Apprenticeships available The RAF is one of the largest providers of diverse apprenticeships in the UK. We offer these apprenticeships for this role: Level 2 Large Goods Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship Reserve role locations Reserve roles exist in specific reserve squadrons, which in turn are located at specific RAF bases. As you will not be resident at those bases (except on multi-day operations or exercises), geographic proximity to where you live is important. These are the bases where this role is active: 501 Sqn, RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire 502 Sqn, JHFS Aldergrove, Co Antrim 504 Sqn, RAF Wittering, Cambridgeshire 505 Sqn, RAF St Mawgan, Newquay 600 Sqn, RAF Northolt, Middlesex 605 Sqn, RAF Cosford, Shropshire 606 Sqn, RAF Benson, Oxon 607 Sqn, RAF Leeming, North Yorkshire 611 Sqn, RAF Woodvale, Merseyside 614 Sqn, Cardiff CAREER, TRAINING & EDUCATION At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas. 01 Phase one training Basic Recruit Training 10 weeks RAF Halton Your career will start with Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC) at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. 10 weeks RAF Halton Phase one training

The course is designed to help you adjust to a military environment. As well as fitness and military training, you’ll also learn about the RAF lifestyle.

02 Phase two training Specialist training 17 weeks DST Leconfield Your next step will be the specialist driving course at the Defence School of Transport at Leconfield in East Yorkshire, which takes up to four months. 17 weeks DST Leconfield Phase two training

Your next step will be the specialist driving course at the Defence School of Transport at Leconfield in East Yorkshire.
During this course you will be trained to pass driving tests in Categories B, C, C+E and D; you will also learn additional military driving skills such as Vehicle Loading and Restraint, Off Road Driving, Skid Avoidance and Recovery Techniques as well as the procedures and regulations for carrying dangerous goods by road (ADR).

At the end of the course, you will have passed your driving tests (if you haven’t already done so before you join) and earned the SQA ADR licence for Carrying Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR). 

You will also be well on the way to achieving an Apprenticeship in Level 2 Large Goods Vehicle Driver.

03 First tour Specialist training Ongoing As assigned Your first assignment will most likely be at an RAF Main Operating Base. You will drive the vehicles for which you hold licences that you achieved during Initial Specialisation Training Ongoing As assigned First tour

This will consolidate your experience and enhance your professionalism. You will also be given the opportunity to complete your Apprenticeship in the workplace. Tasks will include:

The movement of freight and personnel coupled with the associated processes that must be followed in order to achieve these both legally and safely Everything from initial tasking, driver's brief, documentation, vehicle checks, loading and load restraint, load checks on route, driving hours and rest breaks, the final off-load/delivery, documentation processes and customer feedback You may also be trained on airfield support equipment to include aircraft tankers, and snow and ice clearance vehicles. 04 Additional qualifications Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned You can gain further qualifications and advanced driver training with such courses as Tanker Anti-Rollover, requalification in ADR every 5 years and Digital Tachograph training. Ongoing As assigned Additional qualifications

As you progress through your career, there are opportunities to improve your educational profile. There are numerous Leadership and Management qualifications available. Opportunities exist for personnel to complete recognised civilian training such as Certificate in Education (Cert Ed) at a reduced cost.

In addition, there is a Foundation Degree (BA/BSc) Level 5, BSc (Hons) Level 6 in Logistics Management, and further opportunities for a Post Graduate Diploma and Master’s Degree (Level 7), all available through the University of Lincoln, with the use of your Enhanced Learning Credits.

05 Career prospects Ongoing development Ongoing As assigned As your career progresses, we will continue to train you in new skills. Ongoing As assigned Career prospects

As your experience grows, you will be trained to drive/operate more specialist vehicles and, from Corporal onwards, be required to instruct on many vehicle types. You may be required to drive emergency response vehicles, specialist heavy lift trucks and work with cranes as an operator, Supervisor and Appointed Person for Lifting Operations.

Further promotion to the rank of Corporal and beyond is on merit by competitive selection and demonstration of your abilities in both driver and general service skills.

The more effort and enthusiasm you put into the RAF and your Specialisation, the easier you will find it to progress. Progression is the individual's responsibility however, support, direction, guidance and mentoring will be afforded to assist everyone, so you can gain more experience and ultimately further promotion.

06 Transferable skills Ongoing development Ongoing As assigned The qualifications you can earn are as valuable in civilian industry as they are in the RAF. Ongoing As assigned Transferable skills

This means that whenever you decide to leave the RAF, you will be well placed to find a new job in any of the following roles:

Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) Driver (Categories C and C+E) Petroleum Tanker Driver (Airfield and Road) Chauffeur / VIP Driver Coach / Bus Driver (Category D) Driver of hazardous loads (with ADR licence) Fork -Lift Operator Vehicle Dispatch Clerk / Transport Controller Driving Instructor and Examiner Mobile Crane Driver / Operator  Transport Management prevnext TRAINING AND CAREER At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas. 01 Phase one training Basic Recruit Training 23 days (split) RAF Halton Your first steps with us will be your Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC). 23 days (split) RAF Halton Phase one training

This will take place over 4 weekends at your chosen RAF Reserves Squadron, followed by a 15-day residential training course at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. This should be completed within your first year in RAF reserves.

Throughout your training you’ll become prepared for service life in one of the most respected military forces in the world. As well as military training you’ll learn about the core values, code of conduct, and history of the RAF as well as its unique lifestyle.

02 Phase two training Specialist Training Ongoing As assigned After successfully completing initial training, you will be trained for your specific role in the RAF either at your squadron or another RAF station in the UK. Ongoing As assigned Phase two training

You’ll now be trained for your specific role with us, either at your squadron or another RAF station in the UK.

03 Commitment Your commitment to us 27 days As assigned We ask that you commit to a minimum of 27 days each year with us. 27 days As assigned Commitment

This will mean you can get the most out of your role as a Reserve and provide value to us.

Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises. You could also be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after your first year with us.

04 Ongoing development Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned You will have valuable personal development opportunities together with the chance to work around the world, gaining unique experiences in the process. Ongoing As assigned Ongoing development

As well as RAF training packages and courses linked to outside professional bodies, we actively support individual study programmes at every level.

05 Transferrable skills Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned Much of our in-house training is accredited or recognised by external awarding bodies. Ongoing As assigned Transferrable skills

The skills you learn with us as a Reserve will complement those that you use in the wider world, providing value at work and at home too.

prevnext WHY JOIN THE RAF ?

Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket.

Rent from £75p/m Free gym Subsidised food Health care World travel Training WHY JOIN THE RESERVES ?

The skills you acquire as a Reserve won’t just prepare you for the RAF, they will enhance your work and civilian life.

You might be called up to assist with our operations worldwide for up to six months, during which you may be able to claim a pay award to cover your and your employer’s costs.

Training Free gym Subsidised food Paid pension Paid holiday Commitment and Location

You will have to commit to 27 days per year for 12 years minimum.

Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises.

You might be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after the first year.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING Joining the RAF takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are. 1 Aptitude test 2 Selection Interviews 3 Health Assessment 4 Fitness Test 5 Acceptance 6 Training 1 Aptitude test Stage 1 of 6

The aptitude test has been designed to ensure you’re a good fit for the role you’re applying for. You’ll answer seven multiple choice sections which each focus on a different skill:

Verbal reasoning - use and interpretation of written information Numerical reasoning - ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulae Work rate - speed and accuracy of tasks Spatial reasoning - how shapes and objects work Electrical comprehension - working with electrical concepts Mechanical comprehension - grasp of mechanical concepts Memory - Ability to remember information accurately

Click to try the online practice test.

2 Selection Interviews Stage 2 of 6

Here’s where we get to know you a little better. You’ll get to showcase your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining us. Your interview will take place at a local AFCO and cover the following topics:

Family life Education Work experience Special interests and hobbies Interest in the RAF Training The role you’ve applied for The RAF

You’ll be asked a series of standard questions, and you’ll be able to ask your own questions during the debrief afterwards. Some roles require a second interview and/ or test to determine your suitability. These are normally conducted over a 1-3 day period at an RAF base where you’ll be able to see, and experience, the kind of environment you’ll be working in. Details about which interviews are relevant for you will be provided during the application process.

3 Health Assessment Stage 3 of 6

You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index.

We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. Please refer to entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.

4 Fitness Test Stage 4 of 6

A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFC). This will take place at a local gym, and includes a 2.4km run, push up test and a sit-up test.

The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. Please refer to the entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation .

5 Acceptance Stage 5 of 6

Once you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process you’ll be invited to a provisional offer of service interview at your nearest AFCO. This is to ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of service in the RAF, are fully committed to joining, and prepared to commence training.

6 Training Stage 6 of 6

This takes place over 10 weeks at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. It will make you fitter and more confident. It will challenge you mentally and physically, and it will prepare you for your career with us. There are 6 phases:

Arrival - You’ll be sworn into the RAF and be given a service number General Service training - You’ll learn about marching, drills, core values and our code of conduct Initial Force Protection training - Fighting and survival in a military environment Exercise Blue Warrior - 4 days in the field with real battle conditions Force development training - Apply your skills in new environments with adventurous training activities Graduation - Learn about what’s required in your first post and display your new skills

What next?
Now you’re a fully-fledged member of the RAF you can receive role specific training.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING Joining the RAF as a Reserve takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are. 1 Squadron information day 2 Aptitude test 3 Selection interview 4 Health assessment 5 Fitness test 6 Acceptance 7 Training 1 Squadron information day Stage 1 of 7

The first step in the application process requires you to attend a squadron information day. This is a chance for you to visit the squadron of your choice and ask questions. You’ll get to see what life is like in the RAF Reserves and learn about the trade you’re interested in.

2 Aptitude test Stage 2 of 7

All Reserves take an aptitude test known as the ‘Defence Aptitude Test’ at the local squadron they have applied to, or a local AFCO in some cases. The test ensures we match the right candidate to the right role and consists of seven multiple choice sections focusing on different skills:

Verbal reasoning – tests your use and interpretation of written information Numerical reasoning – measures your ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulae Work rate – checks for fast and accurate completion of tasks Spatial reasoning – gauges your understanding of how shapes and objects work Electrical comprehension – tests your ability to work with electrical concepts Mechanical comprehension – measures your grasp of mechanical concepts

Click to try the online practice test.

3 Selection interview Stage 3 of 7

Here’s where we get to know you a little better. You’ll get to showcase your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining us. Your interview will cover the following topics:

Education Employment Interest and motivation for joining the RAF Reserves Military awareness and Service Knowledge

You’ll be asked a series of standard questions, and you’ll be able to ask your own questions during the debrief afterwards. Some roles require a second interview and/ or test to determine your suitability. These are normally conducted over a 1-3 day period at an RAF base where you’ll be able to see, and experience, the kind of environment you’ll be working in. Details about which interviews are relevant for you will be provided during the application process.

4 Health assessment Stage 4 of 7

You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index.

We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. Please refer to entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.

5 Fitness test Stage 5 of 7

A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT). This will take place at a local gym near to you, and includes a 2.4km run, push up test and a sit-up test.

The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. Please refer to the entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation .

6 Acceptance Stage 6 of 7

If you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process, you will be invited to attest into the RAF Reserves at your chosen Squadron.

7 Training Stage 7 of 7

Basic Recruit Training

Basic recruit training takes place at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire over a 15-day period. This residential course includes an introduction to life in the RAF Reserves, military skills training, drills, field training, and team-building exercises.

What’s next?

After basic recruit training, you will go on to receive role specific training in your spare time.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Must be aged between 17 and 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday).

Applicants must also readall ofthe sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements beforesubmittingan application.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

No formal qualifications required.

You must have, at least, a UK DVLA provisional driving licence. You must not have any
endorsements (penalty points) or a driving ban which would prevent you from holding an LGV
licence, if you are under the age of 21. A maximum of 3 penalty points for Minor Traffic
Offences (such as SP30) will be accepted for over 21 years of age. Any serious driving
convictions (such as DR 10 to DR 30) are not acceptable due to the limitations on the type of
employment you will undertake.

NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY

NATIONALITY
You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen since birth (with ‘right to work’ immigration status). Employment restrictions may be imposed within the Specialisation. Non-British nationals applying for this Specialisation are required to certify that they have been advised of the employment limitations and the consequences of not naturalizing as a British citizen.

RESIDENCY
Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application, but candidates with a minimum of 3 years may be considered.

If you have resided abroad for a period due to work or study, you may still be eligible on a case by case basis. Please continue this registration and proceed to your full application.

FITNESS REQUIREMENTS

You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively.

As part of the application process you will need to do the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT), which takes place at a fitness centre local to you.

---