RAF CHAPLAINCY
Beckett House, the Armed Forces ' new Chaplaincy Centre. forces, however their training and commitments are very different. Selection is dependent on reaching the same standards as regular officers, currently they are required to complete 4 specific residential weekends and also a 15-day residential period at the RAF College Cranwell. On successful completion, candidates would then be given the opportunity to attend a short period of graduation training prior to graduating alongside SOIT and Main Squadron officer cadets. Applicants are required to commit to attend 27 days per year for an initial 12 year term.
Specialist Training
After SOIT, you will complete a chaplain / NRPO-specific induction and philosophy course at an appropriate time within your first 6 months of service. The course explores the theology of military chaplaincy and considers its application to practical life in the Armed Forces.
Foundation Tour
For your first tour, you will probably be posted to a large base where you will work within a team to serve your community. There will be a senior chaplain on base who will be able to guide you and give you the benefit of their experience.
( Squadron Leader) is after 3 years’ satisfactory service from the date of commission. A chaplain / NRPO may be eligible for competitive boarding for promotion to Reverend( Wing Commander) once they have completed the requisite amount of time in rank as a Reverend( Squadron Leader).
Ongoing Development
The Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre( AFCC) at Beckett House, Oxfordshire is the chaplaincy training centre for all 3 Services and you will visit frequently for continuing ministerial education and other training courses. There are also opportunities to study at postgraduate level at a later stage of your chaplaincy career.
Transferable Skills
As a chaplain in the RAF, you will have all the development opportunities and career prospects available to your civilian counterparts, together with the chance to work around the world and gain unique personal experiences. Many RAF chaplains go back into civilian ministerial work when they leave the RAF.
Your Career Prospects
You will join the RAF on an Initial Commission( IC) of 6 years as a Reverend( Flight Lieutenant), with an option to leave after 4 years( with 12 months’ notice). Chaplains on a 6-year IC may apply for a 12 year commission after completing 3 years regular service. Promotion to Reverend
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