RAF Odiham

On 02 July, a group of Year 9 pupils took part in an insightful trip to RAF Odiham, the 'home of the UK chinook force'. We were welcomed by Flt Lt Lynsey Curtis, who delivered a talk on the different roles available in the RAF. We found out that there are 60 possible jobs, ranging from logistics and medical to cyber, intelligence, linguist, ground crew and pilot. We also looked at the salary and benefits that come with an RAF career.

We then went over to 7 Squadron and we able to board a chinook helicopter and hear all about the aircraft. The pilot and crew took time to speak to the group about their different roles and some of their exciting experiences.

Our next stop was the officers' mess. We saw some of the accommodation and had a talk from a PT instructor about the hard basic training given to recruits.

To the delight of Year 9s, we were then provided with a large two-course lunch, courtesy of the RAF. After this, we had a networking event, with pupils able to speak in small groups to different RAF personnel, including a young person who had joined straight from school aged 16. Before going home, we looked at the sports facilities and heard about the importance of team games to life on the base.

The day was fascinating and gave Year 9s an insight into what a military career means.

We would like to thank Mrs Holbrook for generously giving up her time to drive a second minibus for this trip, and for the support she has given to other careers trips this year.  For more information about RAF Odiham please follow this link:  https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-odiham/