Uniformed Protective Services visit RAF Brize Norton

Last month, the Y12 Uniformed Protective Service class visited RAF Brize Norton. Brize Norton is the largest Station in the RAF, with approximately 5,800 Service Personnel, 300 civilian staff and 1,200 contractors. The Station is home to the RAF’s Air Mobility Force, encompassing Strategic and Tactical Air Transport, and Air-to-Air Refuelling (AAR) forces, as well as being host to many lodger and reserve units.

We arrived at the main gate to be met by a Corporal. The Corporal issued us with our passes before we were allowed on the base.

Students met the commander of the education branch and she explained the different roles that are available and the entry requirements for the different trades, and the apprenticeships they offer.

We were fortunate to be allowed to go on one of the aircraft. We spoke to the engineers and they explained the importance of their role and what the aircraft is used for.

We were briefed about many different roles for example the RAF police and a dog handler role, and the difference between a working dog and a pet.

After a lovely free lunch in the Sergeants’ Mess we learned about the roles of a chef and the role of the PTI and the sporting opportunities available to everyone working in the RAF. We were impressed with the facilities on the base, from the gym to the support for families.

We finished our visit with a walk through the Officers mess. It was a very educational trip which gave an invaluable insight into the different careers and the life in the RAF.