After entering Oxford University in 1937 to read Physics, Cooke-Yarborough became increasingly interested in radios, and as a result joined the civil wireless reserves in 1938. He attempted to learn Morse code to the standard of 12 wpm, the minimum needed to acquire the operator's license, but was unable to meet this requirement.

In the spring of 1939 the members of the civil wireless reserves were called up to join the RAF. He enlisted at Hull and in the Autumn was called in for his medical. The conclusion of this medical was that he was unfit for RAF duty and sent back to the university where he became interested in the physics of war.

That same Christmas Cooke-Yarborough was called up to the Admiralty and told that he could be of service to the country without joining the RAF. He agreed on the understanding that he was allowed to finish his exams to gain his degree.

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