The Officer & Aircrew Cadet Training Unit (OACTU) is responsible for contributing to the operational effectiveness of the Royal Air Force by producing competent junior officers and non-commissioned aircrew capable of undertaking initial specialist training in their chosen branch. The Unit also provides Special Entrant and Re-Entrant (SERE) Courses for medical and dental officers, chaplains, legal officers and nursing officers, and for officers rejoining the Service or transferring from the sister Services. There are also short induction courses for Commissioned Warrant Officers and for successful applicants for undergraduate Engineer sponsorship. In addition, OACTU provides 2-week Reserve Officer Initial Training (ROIT) courses for reservist officers likely to deploy out of area.

The common aim for all students is to develop teamwork and leadership potential and to provide the foundation of skills, attitude and knowledge required by competent junior officers and non-commissioned aircrew.

OACTU is commanded by a group captain and comprises Cadet Wing and Training Wing.

Cadet Wing is responsible for the overall development, administration, welfare and discipline of the officer and aircrew cadets in training. Officer cadets attending the 32-week Initial Officer Training Course join one of three Squadrons (B, C or D). A Squadron’s responsibilities include the 10-week Non-Commissioned Aircrew Initial Training Course, the 11-week SERE Course, the ROIT Course and bespoke development training.

Training Wing’s specialist squadrons provide training in military skills, leadership, general service training and air power studies – the latter in partnership with the resident King’s College London lecturers. The Wing also trains all instructional staff and takes forward the programme of continued improvement of the training syllabus content and instructional techniques. A dedicated team also provides administrative support to all aspects of training including Graduations.

The Unit receives continuing support from the College Staff Chaplain and his team who provide pastoral care, guidance in Beliefs, Values and Principles and in Care in Leadership. The comprehensive programme of physical fitness training and education is provided by RAF Cranwell’s Physical Education Squadron.