Wing Commander Derek Preston
Job role: President of the Air Board

Joined the RAF: October 1976

Overseas travel: Falkland Islands, Germany, Iraq, Oman, Singapore, USA, Malaysia

‘I joined the RAF as a navigator and, during my career, I’ve flown in lots of different aircraft, from Phantom and Tornado fast jets to VC10K air-to-air refuelling tankers. I’ve been in the RAF 32 years and I’m still being challenged every day. That’s one of the best things about a military career – you go from challenge to challenge and it’s your job to up your game every time.

‘A really memorable time for me was after I converted to fast jets and started flying in the Phantom FGR2. It was the height of the Cold War and we were routinely sent out to intercept Soviet aircraft that were flying into UK airspace. Often we co-ordinated our missions with the Norwegian and American air forces and could be in the air for up to eight hours, refuelling mid-flight.

‘When the RAF started replacing the Phantom with the Tornado F3, I converted again and was selected to stay on the conversion unit as an instructor. Then, the Royal Saudi Air Force was also starting to use the Tornado F3 and they sent their pilots and weapon systems operators to us for training. It was a great experience and opportunity to work with aircrews from another nation – but not without its challenges!

‘More recently, I’d say one of my greatest challenges was flying in the VC10K. Coming from a fast-jet background, suddenly I was part of a flight deck crew of four operating an air-to-air refuelling tanker and dealing with long-range, international navigation whilst supporting the fast jets that we were tasked to refuel. It was an amazing experience that took me all over the world on training exercises and operations.

‘I joined the Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre (OASC) as the President of the Air Board in October last year after I completed a tour as an Air Detachment Commander in Iraq.

‘The OASC is responsible for the selection of all the Officers and Non-Commissioned Aircrew who go on to serve in the regular and reserve RAF. In addition, the Centre manages the selection of candidates for the RAF’s sponsorship schemes and, amongst a variety of other tasks, also performs aptitude testing for the Royal Navy, Army, Civil Police and external charitable organisations that provide flying scholarships.

Web Chat session with Wing Commander Derek Preston - Wednesday 2 July 2008

All questions were moderated for content and suitability.

Steve: could you please describe to me what a typical day in the RAF is like for you

Derek Preston: Hi Steve, That's a very good question. And it varies from day to day.I don't think a typical day exists! And that has been the case throughout my career. Arguably that is one of the benefits of a career in the RAF as you never know what challenges are going to be set before you. What one person sees as routine - another person sees as a challenge.

Terry: Hi Wing Commander Derek Preston, how long have you been in the RAF and why did you choose the Forces as a career path rather than a "normal" Civilian job?

Derek Preston: Terry I've been in the airforce 30 odd years now and had always aspired to join the RAf having been a cadet at school. I had thought about joininig civvy airlines but was more attracted to military life due to its variety and opportunities.

Tom Melia: Hi Derek, quick question, if accepted as an officer/pilot, what is the minimum time you have to serve?

Derek Preston: Tom - pilots are offered permanent commision only so you'll serve to age 40 years or 20 years service whichever comes first.

Marshall: What quality would you say the most important when in an RAF interview?

Derek Preston: Marshal that's an excellent question and I think it can be summed up by 'honesty'. We look for integrity in our individuals.

Willancs: What proportion of people at OASC don't make it through?

Derek Preston: Between half and two thirds of those who attend the OASC are not selected at their first visit. However, that does not mean to say that they do not have something to offer to us. It means either the competition is fierce for a given branch, or the individual is not yet ready for either officer or NCA official training. Nevertheless we encourage the vast majority to return when a significant number succeed at a second or subsequent attempt at selection.

GLen: After 32 years in the RAF, what can you remember of your officer selection? How have things changed since then?

Derek Preston: To be honest Glen little has changed since my days at Biggin Hill in 1975. Whilst the facilities and equipment maybe more sophisticated these days the basic principles of selection are unchanged. Nevertheless they remain effective and continue to challenge our candidates.

Adam: What impresses you the most in potential officers that go through OASC?

Derek Preston: Enthusiasm and motivation. And a realistic understanding of what the individual expects from a military career.

stevie coops: hiya, iv read in many places that going to Air Force Cadets can help you in becmoing a pilot in the RAF, i havent been able to go to one of these forces as there are none in the nearby region and my parents were unable to travel the distance to take me, will this mean i will be at a disadvantage to others or not?

Derek Preston: Stevie - don't be overly concerned about not having joining one of the youth orgs like CCF or ATC - many of our candidates have not had the opportunity but are still successful. What is important is that you have an enthusiasm for a military career and an understanding of what it is you're applying to do. Take every opportunity to visit RAF stations, either by contacting them direct or through and Armed Forces career office (AFCO). Such visits will give you first hand experience of the RAF and a valuable insight in to a service career. And an opportunity to explore the roles of indivduals in a variety of branches.

Harry: I am coming to OASC in August, and am preparing as much as I can, but didn't know if there were any aptitude books that were relevant?

Derek Preston: Harry don't be confused by aptitude testing. Such testing looks for your innate ability - therefore in reality you've either got it or you haven't. It's not something you can practice for. However, if I was to give you some advice then practicing mental arithmetic and speed time distance calculations will be of benefit.

Tom: Hello. What would you say is the most difficult thing to overcome for people participating in the selection process?

Derek Preston: Shyness probably! Individuals are often reluctant to show their true personality in a forum with people they don't know. However, that is what we're looking for. Somebody who has confidence to put their head above the parapet.

Robert Blackmore: At OASC, how good does your current affairs knowledge need to be?

Derek Preston: We're looking for candidates with a broad understanding of National and International affairs dating back over the previous 12 months and not just headline news! Nor what you might have read in the papers on the morning of your interview!!! We are looking for individuals who have personal views on newsworth matters. And are willing to defend their views with facts.

Brett: Hi Derek, depending upon the number of people who apply for each Branch in the RAF, say x amount for a pilot. At OASC does the number of people who have applied and are currently in that particular Branch effect the amount of individuals you accept over the 4 days?

Derek Preston: No. We have an annual target for each of the branches although this may change as the year progresses. Our experience within the OASC allows us to determine which candidates are suitable for selection at a given time.

rhys: hi, in your 32 years experience what has been your hi-light so far?

Derek Preston: That's a great quesiton! To be honest Rhys it's a difficult one to explain. Military carreer is a lot about firsts - perhaps the first time I flew in the Phantom F4 or intercepted a soviet aircraft. Or instructed a Saudi pilot. To be honest I could not single out one highlight. And in fact we could spend the rest of the evening reminiscing about highs in my service career.

Dan: Hi, im attending the OASC in September and i was wondering if the interview is like the one at the AFCO

Derek Preston: Similar but higher paced, higher pressure with two interviewing officers. It is much more of a formal interview than you may have experienced at the AFCO and you should have prepared well for it. Pointer wise - ensure that you are fully aware of the branch/es that you have chosen. Their role, training, your likely employment after IOT (Initial officer training), general service knowledge and military awareness. You cannot afford to have a superficial knowledge if you are to be convincing to the boarding staff (the staff interviewing you).

Airhead: how many candidates on average would you say attend oasc each year?

Derek Preston: About 2500.

Adam: Out of all the aircraft you have had the opportunity to fly, which has been your favourite?

Derek Preston: Undoubtedly the Phantom!

Gabby9: Is there any opportunity for me to visit RAF bases in my region to get an insight into the career path i am interested in following?

Derek Preston: Gaby if you look back at the building transcript I gave advice on visiting stations. If that doesn't answer your question just come back!

Sam: Hi Derek, I've passed through OASC enjoyable it was to! I'm starting IOT in October do you have any advice for that as someone that has been through the process?

Derek Preston: Sam - congratulations on your selection I'm sure you'll enjoy IOT and looking forward to it eagerly (albeit with some trepidation!) It is clear that you have what we're looking for or we wouldn't have selected you. Therefore continue to be yourself and focus on success!

keith: I will hopefully be attending OASC later this year, as a 26 year old. In your experience does being slightly older stand you in a stonger position or can it prove a hinderance?

Derek Preston: In reality there is little difference. Sometimes a younger candidate offers more sometimes and older candidate. However, we are selecting individuals.

DR: Hi Derek, do you have any suggestions on how to prepare for the hangar exercises/

Derek Preston: You just need to be physically confidant and be prepared to give it a go. Get stuck in! There's no time to stand around having a chat.

LukeCarter: Which part of the OASC tests would you think present the most difficulty, or which tests do the most people do least well in?

Derek Preston: I think that's pretty even across the board there isn't one that stands out. What one individual finds easy, another will find difficult. What is important is that you give your all throughout the selection process, and that's really all that anyone can ask of you.

Matthew Williams: How is fitness and adventure training integrated into lifestyle in the RAF? Is it easy to continue sports you were persuing in civillian life?

Derek Preston: The RAF is extremely keen on physical fitness and our committment to this has increased in recent years. With our ongoing out of area operations it is essential that individuals maintain the highest levels of fitness if they are to perform at their best. In addition we encourage competitive and social fitness and adventurous training. As these provide opportunities for individuals to excel and enhance their leadership potential.

LeePhilip01: Hi Mr Preston. If successful in the selection process as a pilot, how do they determine whether you will be flying a fixed-wing aircraft or rotary? Does the candidate get to pick themselves?

Derek Preston: During elementary flying training, your preference will be considered. However, your instructors are skilled at determining your suitability for the various aircraft that we have. And it is they who will make the initial decision as to whether you are streamed to fast jet, rotary wing, or multi-engined training.

JoeS: Hi, i'm 16 and aim to be an RAF pilot once completing A-levels. Which would you recommend, direct entrant or joining up after university?

Derek Preston: Both paths are valid. However, there are opportunities for sponsorship through university under the RAF bursary scheme. Which would provide you with not only a financial support, but also a place at a university air squadron. In addition, the RAF is keen to increase its proportion of Graduate Officers (officers who are graduates). If university is not for you though we do welcome direct entrance.

Chris01: Once IOT has been completed what do you move onto next?

Derek Preston: Assuming that you have graduated successfully, then you will proceed on to professional training for your selected branch.

Welcome to the RAF Chat Session with Wing Commander Derek Preston.All questions are moderated for content and suitability and placed in a queue - please ask as many questions as you like and Derek will answer as many as possible.

All users in this room have been allowed to talk

Victoria: Hi! I was at OASC just before christmas and I've been advised to reapply in a year. Any advice for a returning candidate?

Derek Preston: Hi Victoria. The first thing that you should do is heed the advice of the boarding officers. However, sometimes this is in unfamiliar language. Therefore, you would gain much from visiting the AFCO (careers office) where you originally applied where the staff can provide you with further clarity.

David S: how much time is there between IOT and Professional Training?

Derek Preston: David to be honest, the answer is how long is a piece of string and I don't wish to sound flippant. It depends when your IOT graduates and the next course starts for the professional training in your chosen branch. However, I would anticipate that you could expect at least a week's respite!

JonathanMunro: How far has your career met your expectations of your career, Derek?

Derek Preston: I expected nothing and was amazed!

confused@30: Hi Derek, I'm thinking of applying for a position as an Intelligence Officer, would you say that my current age (30) would I be at a distinct disadvantage in gaining entry?

Derek Preston: As part of the selection process you would undertake aptitude testing. The results are valid irrespective of your age. Consequently, if you realise a competitive score, then your age has not been a limiting factor. However, the upper age limit for this branch and indeed most other ground branches is that you must be under 37 years of age on entry in to IOT.

Adam: How long is the current wait between being recommended for OASC and attending OASC itself?

Derek Preston: Adam we continue to make efforts to reduce the time between your visit to the AFCO and attending the OASC. However, at present the current wait is 4 months.

LeePhilip01: I will be attending university in September and was wondering what the selection process is like to get into a university air squadron. Is it as demanding as the process at OASC?

Derek Preston: It's an interview. Selection is purely on basis of interview conducted by members of the UAS staffs. However you should realise that places are hard fought for. And therefore you should not waste the opportunities afforded to you at the interview. It's similar to the interview for standard entry and the same guidelines apply.

Cdt Dixon: how long is the elimination process of who gets to join or who does not?

Derek Preston: Assuming that you complete the full selection process - the majority of candidates will be informed of the selection decision within 4 weeks of visiting the OASC. However, we make every effort to reduce that time delay. Those candidates who are neither selected nor rejected at their first look, are placed in to a hold and may wait up to 2 months before a final decision is made on their suitability for selection.

robie boy: what do i need to do to have a work experiance day in the raf next year

Derek Preston: Contact a stations Community Liaison Officer and they will let you know if they have any vacancies.

jonny: hi, i have just finished year 12 doing my As levels and beginning to visit university open days, i would be looking to become an officer after graduating from university, but does the course taken at university have to relate to what type of officer you would like to be?

Derek Preston: Certain branches require a Degree. And relevance is important for many. However, there are many branches which do not require a Degree as part of the entry requirements. Consequently you should talk with your AFCO and take their advice. If the branch that you seek does not have a specific Degree requirement then feel free to study what you want and what interests you. There is also lots of good info on the website www.rafcareers.com on specific jobs and job requirements.

aburns: Hello, if I was to apply to a particular AFCO and then move from my area to another part of the country would I need to start the application process again?

Derek Preston: No becuase it can be transferred electronically and we can move files between AFCO's. As long as we know which AFCO's you want to move between.

john king: Hi, I've come into this chat a little bit later, so I apologise if you've been asked similar already. I have an interest in flying, and have had a number of lessons. I understand that I need a good knowledge of the RAF planes/procedures etc. to do well in the interviews. The only literature I got given at the AFCO was a small folder and DVD. I obviously need to widen my knowledge, and was wondering if there was a book you would suggest or a place to go that I can acquire more knowledge. I've always wanted to fly, but I didn't consider the RAF until I was 19 and too old for the cadets - so that hasn't been an option.

Derek Preston: To be honest John as I've said previously, one of the best things you can do is seek out opportunities to visit RAF stations. Not only will that afford you the opportunity to meet people, but also experience the roles of serving officers.

Nath: Hi, Do you have to be able to swim to join?

Derek Preston: You don't have to pass a test to swim to be selected. However, you will be expected to pass a swimming test at IOT. And certain branches notibly Aircrew and Regiment will require you to prove your capabilities regularly.

LeePhilip01: Also, I’ve been speaking to the AFCO about sponsorship during university. Around how many applicants apply for the sponsorship annually and how many receive it?

Derek Preston: Lee - don't worry how many apply and how many receive it. What is important is how you perform at the OASC. If your performance merits a bursury and that's what you seek, then you're in with a chance.

LukeCarter: Is the career for a pilot the career with the highest competition at OASC?

Derek Preston: Absolutely! But if it wasn't challenging it wouldn't be worth striving for.

Alex: As I am still 16, I have been told to re apply in a years time when I turn 17. What can I do throughout the year to prepare myself for what may lie in wait? Also, how can I join the university RAF Squadron? Thankyou

Derek Preston: You can't join the air squadron until you're at university. So sorry Alex this is not an option for you at this time. However, if you're not already a member, then consider joining the Air Training Corps.

stevie coops: hiya Derek, you told me before to visit an airbase, only problem being i cant see on the website anywhere where you can book to just have a look around, it only says about work experience, and being 18 im too old for it. any advice?

Derek Preston: Stevie, contact either the Community relations officer on a station that interests you, or ask your AFCO to help.

LukeCarter: Understandably, the competition to be a Pilot in the RAF is going to be high, but what qualities do you look for at OASC for those wishing to begin a career as a Pilot?

Derek Preston: Luke - the first thing that we're looking for in a pilot is aptitude. Consequently success in the aptitude test with a competitive score is essential. Thereafter, its a level playing field for selection to initial officer training.

leedocherty1991: whats the most difficult situation u have been in

Derek Preston: Perhaps this chat!

hicky: hi, if you had the choice again would you choose to join the RAF?

Derek Preston: Absolutely! Although over the past 30 years I've seen significant changes. A career in the RAF as a commisioned officer remains rewarding.

Alex: out of the many RAF stationsthat can be visited, which one would you most recommend for those intent on become non-commissioned air crew?

Derek Preston: Alex - the first thing that I would suggest is that you visit 55 squadron at RAF Cranwell to undertake its familiarisation visit. That will provide you with a broad insight in to NCA employment opportunities (Non-commisioned Air Crew).

rob-plymouth: did you start as an officer or as a normal recruit?

Derek Preston: I joined direct from school at the age of 18 as a commisioned officer.

Gareth: Hello Derek - at the ripe old age of 35 I am looking at joining the Reserves (am meeting with 7644SQN next month). I still have the opportunity to join as a Regular and wondered how older applicants tend to get on at OASC?

Derek Preston: I don't know much about that sorry - but please take a look at the dedicated website: www.rafreserves.com

Lee: Hi Derek. Is it possibly to be a family man and an RAF Pilot?

Derek Preston: Absolutely! I'm married and happily married and I think that's important. The demands of the service have not adversly affected my family life including those of my daughters who are now aged 25 and 22!

Chris01: Is there any break up in the 30 weeks of IOT, or is it one stretch?

Derek Preston: IOT is split in to 3 terms of 10 weeks with one week's break in between each term.

Matthew Simpson: Hi, i like in the Gloucestershire area and intend on joining the RAF as an Officer in Fighter Control, having already visited Innsworth and Staverton civilian airport which would be the best base to turn my port of call to over the summer within my area?

Derek Preston: Mathew - if you're serious about a career as a fighter controller then you must contact the School of Fighter Control at RAF Bulmer.

William Browne: Good evening. Having attained the rank of Wing commander where would you see your career progressing from here.

Derek Preston: I'd like to think onwards and upwards!

jonny: where do i go from here to further my application?

Derek Preston: AFCO is your first port of call.

Derek Preston: Thanks all of you for the great questions - sorry I couldn't answer you all! It's been great!

Views expressed during the web chats are those of individuals and do not necessarily reflect RAF policy.