Naval Careers Service

Applicants are only accepted as direct entrants from the other components of the Naval Service. They must have 12 years service and have held the minimum rank of petty officer (or sergeant in the Royal Marines) for at least two years.^[12] Applications may be made whilst serving in the regular forces or within two years of leaving (extended to five years where applicants entered the reserve forces upon end of regular service).^[12] The maximum age on entry is 52 and the normal retirement age is 55, which may be extended in exceptional circumstances to 60 years.^[12][13] Additionally all entrants must pass a selection board and have a clean driving licence, no unspent convictions and pass medical fitness checks.^[7]

New entrants are always assigned to the CA3 rank, regardless of previous rank.^[9] Initial and further training is carried out at the Recruiting and Training Advisory Group (RTAG) in HMS Sultan.^[7] Progression is via promotion boards specific to the NCS.^[9]

Additionally regular and reserve officers and ratings can be temporarily assigned to the service. Such personnel are generally required to be over 30, present a good image and able to communicate with potential recruits and their parents. These personnel typically serve in an Armed Forces Careers Office, a Royal Navy Careers Information Office, an Officer Careers Liaison Centre or for university presentations and displays.^[14]

The role of NCS Career Advisors is to increase awareness of the Naval Service to potential recruits and the general public and to enable the service to meet recruitment targets. Career Advisors interview potential applicants, administer selection tests, check recruits meet eligibility requirements and assist them in completing necessary documentation and process requirements. They may also accompany potential recruits on visits to Royal Navy establishments, attend careers fairs and carry out presentations to schools and colleges and outreach events.^[7]