A vacancy has arisen for a Squadron Leader (any) to serve as XO and Safeguarding Lead, HQ RAF Apprenticeships at Kestrel Court, Quedgeley on Full Time Reserve Service (Limited Commitment) Terms and Conditions of Service (TCoS), with an initial proposed start date of 01 February 2027.
This is a varied and interesting post supporting the RAF Apprenticeship Programme. The postholder will lead and co-ordinate issues and outputs across RAF Apprenticeships, cohering tasks and proactively developing improved processes. Acting as the Safeguarding Lead for RAF Apprenticeships, the postholder will lead, develop and implement robust Safeguarding policies and procedures in accordance with internal and external requirements.
Flexible working arrangements may be available to allow working from an Alternative Working Address and will be open to negotiation, depending upon the needs of the Service and the individual. However, regular travel to apprenticeship delivery locations will be required.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the primary deputy to the COS.
- Proactively engage with all Pillars across RAF Apprenticeships to understand and support their outputs.
- Act as primary contact for all 22Gp taskings, delegating where appropriate.
- Lead Apprenticeship Strategic Management Group (ASMG) programme.
- Explore and deliver opportunities to expand RAF Apprenticeships programme, including introduction of Apprenticeship Units (AUs) and other accreditation opportunities.
- Ensure Risk Management coherence across RAF Apprenticeships, ensuring all risks are accurately captured and raised at the appropriate level.
- Coordinate and organise RAF Apprenticeships' meetings and visits.
- Act as the Safeguarding Lead for the RAF Apprenticeship programme, developing policies and procedures in accordance with internal and external requirements.
- Provide safeguarding D&G across RAF Apprenticeships, including to Apprenticeships Continuous Improvement Team (ACIT) led Apprenticeship Support Visits (ASVs).
- Prepare and maintain the Workforce Plan for RAF Apprenticeships, in conjunction with SO3 Strategic Workforce.
- Provide advice regarding funding applications across RAF Apprenticeships, including actively seeking development opportunities.
- 1RO for SO3 Engagement and Communications and SO3 Strategic Workforce.
- Manage and co-ordinate the Honours & Awards process across RAF Apprenticeships, including securing high-quality nominations.
RAF Apprenticeships XO and Safeguarding Lead employer: Serve
Joining the team at Northwood HQ as an SO2 IWC Ops Delivery offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the mission of the IWC while enjoying a supportive work culture that values collaboration and professional growth. Employees benefit from structured development pathways, flexible working arrangements, and the chance to engage in high-level strategic operations that directly impact the Joint Force. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on employee well-being, Northwood HQ stands out as an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in defence operations.
