For the first time, graduates at RAF College Cranwell will now be able to gain nationally recognised professional qualifications in Leadership and Management through their Inital Officer Training (IOT).
The new qualification will see graduates from the regular IOT course at RAF Cranwell receiving a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management, and those personnel graduating from the Specialist Entrant and Re-Entrant course, gaining a Level 5 Award in Leadership and Management from the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM).
In recognition of the importance of the role that instructors play within the training system, Officer and Aircrew Training Unit personnel completing the OSIC will also receive a Level 5 Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring along with a Level 5 Award in Leadership.
That these ILM qualifications are an equivalent academic level to the second year of a bachelor’s degree is testament to the high standard of training that is delivered at OACTU. RAF Leeming has also launched a new three-day course with the ILM, aimed at the rank of corporal and below, which leads to a Level 3 Award in leadership.
Flight Lieutenant Craig White, who has been involved in developing the new accreditation at RAFC Cranwell, said: 'Nationally recognised qualifications influence not only students, but also teachers and parents. The market for university leavers is extremely competitive, so it's vital that the RAF has a strong position and that people know that gaining qualifications is an added point of joining the Forces.
'These qualifications will help servicemen and women keep pace with their civilian peers, so that when they leave the military they will be on a level playing field in the job market and can hit the ground running.'
Karen Read, Head of Defence and International at ILM said: 'There has only been a recognised accreditation in management so far, so having one in leadership will recognise the training which goes on in the RAF. Leadership is so important in officer training and that needs to be noticed publicly.'
The RAF is keen to support accreditation - it benefits the Service with regards to the recruitment, retention and resettlement of personnel, as well as to operational and organisational effectiveness and efficiency. It also helps maintain reputation and morale.
About ILM:
The Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) is Europe’s leading management organisation. ILM partners with more than 80,000 individuals and organisations each year to help them fulfil their potential and achieve success through its wide range of flexible leadership and management development solutions.
From industry-leading qualifications and membership services to specialist learning resources, all ILM products and services are built on in-depth research and benchmarked against best practice standards. Supporting a fast-growing community of over 30,000 practising leaders and managers, ILM’s membership services are designed to provide ongoing continuing professional development throughout every stage of a manager’s career.
Backed by an in depth programme of thought leadership research, ILM operates internationally, improving leadership and management skills, knowledge and outputs across all sectors, from corporate finance to the armed forces
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