PERSONNEL SUPPORT BRIEF - NFF

LESSONS IN LIFE
RNFT Failure
An AB1 was Discharged SHORE recently on the grounds of his Unsuitability – Persistent
RNFT Failure.
Having been subject to the required warning procedure for an appropriate time period
and been afforded adequate time to rectify the situation, the AB1 ultimately lacked the
commitment and effort needed to achieve the standard required to pass the RNFT. There
is no medical reason why the AB1 cannot pass his RNFT and thus the Discharge SHORE was
approved.
Remember:
You must be in date for your RNFT on your Common Reporting Date if you want to be
considered to promotion or commission transfer.
Only those recorded as in date on JPA will be considered by the Promotion Board - this is an
individual responsibility - if in doubt check 2010DIN01-024
Reports for Promotion/Selection
During a recent SJAR and Competency check in preparation for a selection board it was
discovered that, despite being put forward by their Chain of Command, a number of the
potential candidates were ineligible for selection.
One reason for ineligibility was that the potential candidate did not have an in date RNFT
pass or a clear reason for exemption recorded on JPA. If you have had a change in medical
category that exempts you from the RNFT it remains your responsibility to ensure that your
JPA record is updated.
Another reason for ineligibility was the use of ‘Developing’ as opposed to ‘Yes’ (or
higher) for promotion 1 Rank up in an Appraisal Report. On subsequent investigation it
became apparent that there was confusion as to the criteria for these recommendations.
Reporting Officers had used ‘Developing’ as they had mistakenly believed that they were
required to consider ‘eligibility’ for promotion (e.g. yet to obtain sufficient sea time).
The recommendations matrix in JSP 757 Art 4.36 provides for assessments to be made on
‘suitability’ for promotion without regard for ‘eligibility’.
In making their assessments, Reporting Officers should disregard whether the individual
is eligible for promotion in accordance with BR1066 and purely focus on the Subjects’
suitability e.g Command, Leadership and Management skills, knowledge, ability to
complete any promotion training (Command or Professional) – to hold the next higher
rank or rate within the next 12 months. Individuals who demonstrate all the personal/
professional attributes necessary for promotion but, as yet, are not fully qualified may still
be awarded ‘Yes’ or higher for promotion 1 Rank Up.
Conversely, individuals qualified in all respects for promotion but who do not exhibit the
personal qualities required for higher rank/rate should be awarded ‘Dev’ or ‘No’.
Only those awarded ‘Yes’ or higher for promotion 1 Rank Up, and who meet any other prerequisites
will be considered by promotion or those sideways transfer selection boards that
also act as promotion boards.
JSP 757 provides detailed guidance for Reporting Officers.
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