RAF Launches First Fully Online Qualification Course

The RAF has launched its first completely online course for servicemen and women.

It means, unlike other residential courses, this course can be completed anywhere in the world with an internet connection.

The course in human resources is delivered by an external company and provides those who complete it with civilian qualifications which should help people make transition from life in a uniform to life on civvy street.

One woman taking the course is Squadron Leader Anne Rubery.

Rubery began her RAF career working as a dental surgery assistant and currently works in Military HR as a Personnel Support Officer, helping people with issues regarding pay, welfare and careers.  

Now she is training for a Level 5 Diploma in HR Management.

“It shows other organisations and your peer group and those that come to you for help and support that you have that academic baseline. So it adds a great deal of value,” she told Forces News.

“And the added bonus then, obviously, you’re up to speed with your peers when you leave the service and you have a greater understanding of that environment and that you’ve had the opportunity to learn.”

She has no intention of leaving the RAF any time soon but thought that with so many people joining the RAF with university degrees, she might as well add to her formal qualifications.   

For those looking to make the leap from life with the services to life on civvy street, the Ministry of Defence’s Career Transition Partnership works to help people make the change. All members of the Armed Forces can use the CTP for free and so far it has helped 235,000 servicemen and women make the switch.