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your guide to becoming an in the p4–9 challenge Making the right decision The ability to make decisions is at the heart of what it means to be an Army officer. Some of those decisions will be day-to-day choices made in consultation with other people. Others have to be made on the spot and acted on in the demanding environment of exercises or operations. p10–17 Before making any decision, you need to have the right information.  learning The purpose of this guide is to provide the information you need to help you decide whether you want to become an officer full time, or in your spare time with the Territorials. It will tell you about some of the challenges you’ll face and the rewards you can look forward to. It will show you how one of the best management training programmes in the world prepares you for leadership. It will give you an idea of what you can expect from an Army career. Becoming an Army officer is a big decision. But no matter which unit you hope to join, whether you want to stay for the long term or go on  p18–27 to do other things, few other choices you can make will offer you so much in return. reward contents challenge 4–9 leadership 28–33 06 Life on operations 30 How you develop your 08  Leading a team of soldiers leadership skills 09 Serving as a Territorial officer 32 Your five-year career path learning 10–17 career 34–63 p28–33 12 Officer training at Sandhurst 36 The selection process leadership 14  A term-by-term guide to the 39 Support during your studies Commissioning Course 40 Your route to becoming 17 Training as a Territorial officer an Army officer 42 Where to use your skills reward 18–27 44  and corps 20 A day in the life of an officer 60 Joining as a Professionally 24  Rewards of front-line service Qualified Officer 26 Adventurous training and 62 What to do next financial benefits  2 p34–63 career challenge Life in the Army is about challenging yourself. From serving on operations to being a better leader, you’ll get the support you need to succeed 06 Life on operations 08 Leading a team of soldiers 09 Serving as a Territorial officer challenge

Folarin joined the Army after completing a degree at Newcastle University. He’d been set “I wanted for a career in the oil industry but chose the Army because it offered a more varied career. After officer training, he joined the Grenadier the chance Guards and prepared to face a soldier’s biggest challenge – serving on operations.

What convinced you to join the Army? to make a I knew that camaraderie and the chance to make a difference were important to me. I’d always been interested in the Army and I began to difference” realise that commanding troops on operations would give me the opportunity to experience all FoLARIN kuku of those things. lieutenant INFANTRY What’s the appeal of being on operations? It was the most intense situation I’ve ever been in and it brought with it a huge adrenaline rush. As an officer there’s an extra dimension to going on operations because you have to think about the welfare of the people you command as well as the best way to complete the mission. How do you prepare? By training. You do officer training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and if you’re joining the Infantry you then do the Platoon Commanders’ Battle Course, where you learn all

operations facts about commanding a platoon during high- intensity operations. Before you deploy you do n When the Army goes on operations n An intensive training programme prepares extra training specific to the area you’re going to. overseas, different units are selected  you for each tour What challenges are you looking for now? to take part for a fixed period of time n During a tour you get a two-week rest and I’m keen to go back and command troops in that known as a ‘tour’ recuperation (R&R) break situation again. I’ve been there, seen it and I n Operational tours are the ultimate test of n Friends and family can write to you for free want to test myself again. You’re always thinking your skills as an officer – and a chance to n Many bases have access to phones, email, about ways you can improve, ways that you can put all your training into practice satellite TV and DVDs do things better. There’s also a massive sense of n Most tours last for six months n On completing a tour you get 20 days’ leave bonding while you’re out there and that’s quite a special experience.

7 challenge

John works for an engineering consultancy. He territorial facts joined his local Territorial unit as a soldier, and after 18 months he was selected for officer n As a Territorial officer you will have the “being an training. After gaining his commission, he same opportunities and responsibilities served in Afghanistan. His challenge has been as your Regular counterparts, with the army officer to combine civilian and military careers. added advantage that you can keep your existing civilian career is all about Why do you enjoy being a Territorial officer? n The minimum training commitment You get the best of both worlds. I have the in Territorial units ranges from 19 to leading freedom of my civilian career as well as all the 27 days per year advantages of the military lifestyle. And as an n Training takes place at weekends or  soldiers” officer, I’ve got extra responsibility and more in the evenings involvement with the larger-scale, tactical stuff. n Training will boost your fitness and Is it difficult to combine being an Army officer develop your leadership skills with your civilian job? n Most people join their regional With careful management, the two complement Territorial unit. If you join a national each other really well. My job involves managing unit in a specialist role, there are projects and people, and that’s also a big part of different conditions of service and being an officer. After being on operations I’m levels of commitment no longer stressed or fazed by what happens in the office – I know I can deal with it. Does being a Territorial improve your civilian job prospects? Definitely. My were very interested in my Army role. From its point of view, there aren’t many chances to employ someone who has experience of managing 30 people at a time and doing all the day-to-day admin that goes with it. leadership facts n In your first posting you’ll take command “A civilian career and ARMY of a troop or platoon of up to 30 soldiers. gemma mason Leading them will be your first challenge as a commissioned officer lieutenant n ROLE can complement each You’re responsible for the day-to-day management of your soldiers n Sergeants with many years’ experience will Gemma graduated with a me close to the action. The have a sergeant there to help be there to give you expert advice other really well” degree in Zoology. She chose soldiers are intelligent, they’re you out and pass on some of the Army because she wanted experts in their field and many his expertise. john dolphin an active lifestyle and to be have good experience. They’re What’s your favourite part of lieutenant INFANTRY “in the thick of things”. Her rewarding to command. being an officer? challenge has been to take What was it like meeting Seeing the development of command of her own troop. your soldiers? new soldiers who come into As a Troop Commander you’re the troop. They’re nervous and How did you choose your unit? in charge of 30 soldiers. You unsure of themselves, but as Women can’t join the Infantry meet them on your first day they learn they become much so I opted for the Royal with the unit, which can be more confident and capable. Engineers as I knew it’d keep pretty nerve-wracking, but you That’s extremely rewarding.

8 learning As an Army officer you’ll develop existing skills and learn some surprising new ones, so you’ll be able to withstand whatever the future throws at you 12 Officer training at Sandhurst 14 A term-by-term guide to the Commissioning Course 17 Training as a Territorial officer learning

“Sandhurst my time at sandhurst

is a steep tim jarvis combination. I couldn’t see myself What’s the most valuable thing you’ve officer cadet sitting at a desk for ten hours a day. learned on the course? learning How did you prepare for Sandhurst? That the best way to get through Why did you decide to join the Army? I took six months out between university Sandhurst is to keep your head down curve, but The Army challenges you mentally and and starting the Commissioning Course. but your chin up. It means that you need physically, and being an officer is about It gave me a chance to unwind. I travelled to get on with it but you also need to you climb it leading from the front and caring for Europe with some friends and worked keep your sense of humour. Sandhurst is together” your soldiers. That’s a very appealing on my fitness ready for the course. tough but it’s also very, very enjoyable.

The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst is the place where officer cadets learn to become leaders. They are taught military skills and the different contexts in which to apply them – and about what it means to lead soldiers. Over 80 per cent of the officer cadets who arrive at Sandhurst are graduates, but as Tim Jarvis found out, the Royal Military Academy provides a very different learning experience: “I come from a completely non-military background. Before I came to Sandhurst I’d been at university, which is about as different a learning environment as it’s possible to get. “There, you spend years becoming an expert in one subject. What Sandhurst teaches you is that the best officers do everything well, not a few things perfectly. There’s no point mastering weapons handling if you can’t use the radio. “So when you start Sandhurst you’re at the foot of a very steep learning curve. But everyone is in exactly the same position so you all start climbing it at the same time.”

the sandhurst experience “In military academies around the world you’re taught by other officers. What sets Sandhurst apart is that a lot of the training is delivered by senior soldiers – particularly during the first term – and that’s an important difference. “These soldiers have been in the Army for 19 years or more, so they’ve got a massive wealth of experience. It’s not always easy to appreciate that when they’re laying down the law, and there are definitely times when you have to grit your teeth and remember that answering back might not be the wisest move, but you come to realise that it’s because they want to make sure that when »

13 learning

» you leave here and are ready to lead soldiers, you’re the best officer you can be. my time at sandhurst “The first few weeks are probably the toughest. You find out who has to be saluted, how to onai gwachiwa prepare your kit, how to do foot drill, weapons officer cadet handling and the basics of navigation. By the end of the first term you’ve learned all the What are you hoping to get out same basic skills as the soldiers you’ll soon be of Army life? commanding and, because you’re doing a lot I joined for three reasons: to of physical work, you get really fit. challenge myself, to make a “Life as an officer is an intellectual challenge difference and to travel. The great as well as a physical challenge, and Sandhurst thing about Sandhurst is that you’re reflects that. The best example of how the two with people who have similar goals. combine is the exercise called ‘Long Reach’ that Is Sandhurst tough? you do in the first term where you put all those It definitely has its moments. On soldiering skills into practice. some exercises you feel cold and “You have to complete a 70-kilometre trek in very tired, and you’re tested to the Black Mountains of , and you’re timed. your limit, but you help each other Every few kilometres you have to complete a get through it. When you finish command task, such as working out how to get together you get a real high. equipment across a river in the right sequence. What’s the most valuable thing It’s a tough test, especially at four in the you’ve learned? morning, but you complete it as a team and Ultimately I’m still the same person it’s really rewarding when you finish together. but I’ve become a lot more “That’s something else you learn – the confident. Sandhurst teaches you importance of teamwork. Your unit is only that if you push yourself you can as fast or as strong as its slowest or weakest do things that you might have member, so you help people who are struggling. thought were impossible. “During the second term you start doing Completing the tasks gives you more academic work. It involves looking at many enormous faith in your abilities. different areas such as the history and causes » the commissioning course – 44 weeks Term 1 basic military skills » Term 2 leadership training » adventurous training expedition » Term 3 looking forward The first five weeks are difficult conditions. “I was nervous delivered through the “The exercises The expedition provides challenge as well as “Sailing was The process of deciding the Sovereign’s Parade “This could spent mastering the You then learn about medium of infantry an opportunity for you testing your capacity which or and a formal ball to basic military skills basic infantry tactics at first, but it’s tactics, and you take can be hard and the other officer to make decisions and enormous fun. corps you will join after celebrate the award of well have been taught to the soldiers before going off on very easy to part in several field work at the cadets to relax together take controlled risks in Definitely the Sandhurst is completed. your commission. one of the best you will command. This leave again, part of make friends. exercises to assess your time, but that in a very different potentially arduous and highlight of the The focus of the years of my life” phase ends with a short which will be spent progress. You start the environment to stressful environments. exercises moves from As we tackled makes you course so far” ONAI ceremony and your first at an adventurous process of deciding Sandhurst, but classic infantry tactics GWACHIWA period of leave. You go training centre. the first few which unit to join and proud of what it also has a part ONAI towards complex tasks, on to complete an tasks together part of the term will be you achieve” to play in your GWACHIWA such as peacekeeping exercise which involves Now that you’ve spent planning the development as an and counter-insurgency. my confidence ONAI There is a final, long a 70km trek in the Black mastered the basic adventurous training GWACHIWA officer. Taking part Mountains and tests started to grow” military skills you can expedition, which you in sports like rock exercise to draw your navigation skills ONAI learn more about being will tackle during the climbing, sailing together the experience as well as your ability GWACHIWA a leader. Much of the period of leave before and trekking gives of the preceding weeks. to think clearly in leadership training is the third term. you a physical The course ends with

14 For more information go to www.sandhurst.mod.uk 15 learning

» of past conflicts. Like everything you learn here, it involves working in a built-up area where there professional even the classroom-based activities have a clear can be threats from different directions. It also qualifications practical application. Learning about previous includes full-scale riot training and brings a lot wars means that you’re less likely to repeat the of the key elements of the course together. You mistakes that were made, but we also learn need to be fit and robust, to think about how about the factors which shape the world in which you’re going to handle the situation in the most we’ll be operating and the nature of security effective way and to work as a team. And despite threats to the UK. There are even exercises in appearances, it’s also very, very good fun. how to handle the media and how to conduct “Right now we’re reaching the end of the negotiations. Later in the course you do an third term. Towards the end of the course, the exercise that involves hostage negotiation emphasis shifts subtly to the idea of ‘officership’ so everything you’ve learnt become very relevant. and what it means, such as being professional,

“I couldn’t see myself sitting If you have certain qualifications you could be on the fast track to becoming an officer. behind a desk for ten hours, The Professionally Qualified Officers’ Course lasts for four weeks and is open to every day of my working life” the following professionals with relevant degrees and the appropriate experience: “At the end of the second term you take acting with integrity and leading by example at part in an adventurous training exercise all times. We’ll soon be standing up in front of n Doctors n Dentists n Nurses n Lawyers overseas. It’s a welcome change from being in our soldiers for the first time, asking them to n Pharmacists n Physiotherapists a military environment. It’s also a good test of trust us, so we need to be absolutely confident n Veterinary surgeons n Chaplains organisational abilities because we’re expected in ourselves, our ability and what we’ve been to plan the expeditions ourselves, as later on taught over the preceding weeks. If you plan to study for a medical degree, we’ll be doing similar things with our soldiers. “I’ve learned a lot about being an officer and you may be eligible for a Medical Cadetship “The best exercise is ‘Broad Sword’, which about myself. I now know that no matter how during your training. For more on opens the third and final term. It’s probably the tired I am, I’ve got a reservoir of strength to Cadetships and Professionally Qualified most realistic in terms of the types of operations draw on. Lessons like that are invaluable. This Officers, turn to page 60. we can expect to deploy on in the future because has been a phenomenal experience.” ▪ the territorial commissioning course – 5 training modules recognised the world over modules 1-3 key military skills » module 4 leadership training » module 5 specialist training » The Commissioning Course demonstrate your abilities Certificate in Human Territorial officer soldiers that you will Module four is taught You’re commissioned There’ll be opportunities at Sandhurst develops your and give you a basis for Resource Management training is delivered in command. You then at the Royal Military as a , to go on more courses leadership potential and further study. Chartered Management five different modules move on to learn about Academy Sandhurst but your training will as your time in the gives you the skills that will The course is accredited by Institute completed over several the tactics used by the and marks the most continue at your new Territorials continues and as you prepare for help you become an effective the following organisations: Awards officers its months. This makes it Army and begin to challenging stage unit or at a Regional easier to fit training in develop your leadership of your route to a Training Centre as you your next promotion. officer. It’s the best possible City & Guilds Associate Membership around your existing and management skills. commission. It is get to grips with the start to an Army career, and Awards officers the Institute of Leadership career. The first made up of a week- skills appropriate to the training that Sandhurst Licentiate in Leadership and Management three modules long preparatory your role. The length provides is also recognised The Open University Officers can apply to become take place at a course to bring followed by two weeks of this training varies by several civilian institutions Grants the course 120 members of the Institute Regional Training together the skills you during which you will depending on your and professional bodies. undergraduate points Chartered Institute of Centre (RTC) and have learned in the put your leadership unit and also includes Whether or not you want a Bournemouth University Personnel and Development start by equipping preceding modules and skills into practice. After some additional skills long-term career in the Army, Officer training counts 60 per Awards officers its you with the same assess how well you’re Module four you receive that were not covered you’ll have qualifications to cent towards a Postgraduate Licentiate Membership core skills as the getting on. This is your commission. in previous modules.

32 For more information go to www.sandhurst.mod.uk 17 reward With amazing rewards and a wealth of opportunities waiting for you in your spare time, a career as an Army officer means that you get out more 20 A day in the life of an officer 24 Rewards of front-line service 26 Adventurous training and financial benefits reward

charlie catling lieutenant infantry “being in charge of 30 soldiers is a reward in itself” A day Charlie Catling is an officer in the , that were very unsatisfying and realised e an Infantry regiment. He joined the Army after the Army was still something that I in th graduating from university because he wanted really wanted to do. life a job that brought different rewards from “I chose the Infantry as they’ve got a civilian careers. He talks about some of those front-line role. As a platoon commander rewards, from commanding soldiers to life with you work very closely with the soldiers that you the other officers in the Mess. command. You’re in charge of 30 soldiers and “My dad had been an officer, so I was very you’re with them every day – often under very careful to make sure that joining the Army was trying circumstances. That gives you a bond that an active decision and not something I just I don’t imagine you get anywhere else. drifted into. After I’d finished studying at “After you’ve completed your officer training university I went through a few random jobs at Sandhurst you do some other courses to get »

20 21 reward

advice or help when they’ve got problems a day in because it gives you a chance to make a real the life of “There’s difference. Some of them are older than you but charlie regardless of the age difference, if you can help catling or stand up on their behalf, your efforts are a bond in appreciated. And once you’ve built up that rapport the job just gets better and better. Morning sport You start the day by “We did an exercise out on Salisbury Plain doing sport with the the army which was the first time I got to lead the platoon soldiers in your platoon. in a realistic context. Everyone knows their roles It can be football, rugby and their responsibilities, and everyone is or going for a run. that you switched on. You ask for something to be done and it gets done. Being part of that is an keeping up with the admin amazing feeling. I head into the office to just don’t “One of the keys to your success and another check my emails and big reward of the job is your relationship with catch up with my boss. your platoon sergeant. They’re soldiers with ten get with years’ more experience than you and they have Lunch in the loads of good ideas to share about how to get officers’ mess Living in the Mess gives things done. Ultimately, you’re their boss, but any other you’d be foolish not to make use of their advice. you a chance to get help with any problems you So if they see the boss doing something wrong, have with the platoon, they’ll take you to one side and tell you. Equally, and swap stories. career” you can do the same. There’s a good mutual understanding there.” supervising training You will probably have LIfe in the MEss written most of the “If you’re a young, single officer, you live in the training programme. Officers’ Mess with the other young officers. It’s You will want to see that » you up to speed with the skills that are the place where you eat, sleep and relax together, it all goes well – even the appropriate to the role of your unit. The Royal and it quickly becomes like a home away from sessions that you are not conducting yourself. Welsh are an Armoured Infantry regiment, home. You’ve got like-minded people around so I had to learn all about our Warrior Infantry you, so if you want someone to talk to or Room inspection Fighting Vehicles and what’s involved with socialise with, all you have to do is wander down Checking the soldiers’ commanding an armoured unit.” the corridor and knock on someone’s door. rooms is a great “Mess life is a great way of dealing with the opportunity to catch up meeting your soldiers stresses of the working day, but you also get with what’s happening in the platoon. “By the time you finally get to meet your plenty of time to yourself. That’s when platoon, you’re raring to go. I met them A day you get the opportunity to meet up with Winding down, all, said a short piece about who I am e friends from civilian life or maybe to keeping fit and where I’d come from. I also spoke in th head back home and see your family. Going for a run can help to each of them individually to find out life “I’ve been with the Regiment for to clear your head when more about their everyday lives, their nine months. That means I’m almost work is over. interests and if they had any issues they exactly halfway through my time as a platoon needed help with. commander. One thing I really want to do “There’s some scepticism at first towards the before I move on to my next posting is to deploy new platoon commander, but that’s inevitable. on operations with my platoon. Doing the job Your job is to make sure they understand that you signed up to do and trained hard for, with you’re genuinely interested in looking after their the soldiers that you’ve been leading over the needs as well as in getting the job done. previous months, has to be about as great a “It’s massively rewarding to be asked for reward as you can get.” ▪

22 For more information go to armyjobs.mod.uk/graduate 23 reward

on the front line a day in the life... sam perrin on lieutenant infantry operations Why did you decide to join the Army? T in action ReaDy for action I’ve never wanted to do anything else. Chinook helicopters The lifestyle always appealed to me and I provide a lifeline for T liked the idea of becoming an officer, of units that operate in stepping up and taking responsibility. remote areas. They T What is your favourite part of the job? fly in supplies and T It’s very satisfying to be part of a team equipment, and carry T patrols into battle. whose members all trust, respect and look out for each other. Guard duty 2 Helmand Province is an important base for 4 T the Taliban, so it’s vital for soldiers on duty to 3 stay alert. T “life on operations time out In between patrols, one of the soldiers’ laptops gazing into puts you at the becomes an ideal the green zone portable DVD player. The lush valleys beside the Helmand River produce lunchtime most of the country’s food, Key to symbols heart of the team” It’s an opportunity but have become a Taliban stronghold in recent years for soldiers and officers Taliban positions from each platoon to T catch up on the main Story of the raid events of the day. 1 # S am Perrin joined the Army because he wanted the day, so your physical endurance is limited by Briefing to serve on operations and he chose The Royal the amount of water that you’re able to carry. As the next patrol gets Anglian Regiment, an Infantry unit, because he We’d be involved in some very intense firefights ready to go out, the felt that leading combat soldiers would provide that were mentally demanding. As the platoon platoon commander the fight for mazdurak the ultimate test of his skills as an officer. As commander, you’re responsible for deciding how talks through his plan. How the Infantry used initiative, bravery and firepower to achieve Sam found out, deploying on operations can to face each threat and are constantly adapting job done success in a raid on the village of Mazdurak in Afghanistan pare life right down to the basics. For a young to the changing circumstances. With an operation officer, it’s just you and the soldiers you lead in “When the patrol is over you clean your kit so completed, the platoon Sam Perrin and his platoon watched Coming under attack from Taliban a single, incredibly close-knit team. you’re ready to go out again if necessary, and are flown back to base. Mazdurak for weeks before this attack to 2 fighters, Sam’s team reach a “I spent no more than two or three days in then you start to unwind. If the helicopters are make sure no civilians lived there. As this compound and open fire on the enemy Camp Bastion, which is the main camp in the able to get in, you might have mail and other map shows, their mission was to drive out Seven of Sam’s platoon position Helmand region of Afghanistan. For the rest of packages from home to open. If it’s your turn to the Taliban. As the platoon moved in, they 3 themselves on a rooftop and engage the time we were up in an Afghan village living go off on R&R, you’ll fly out with them and start faced some stiff resistance. 20 Taliban fighters in a fierce firefight as in some abandoned houses. We were living off your journey back to the UK. the rest of the platoon closes in 24-hour ration packs and anything else we could “One of the best rewards is when soldiers say story of the raid One soldier is injured crossing open carry with us. Some of us had battery-powered that they’ve enjoyed serving with you at the end Sam’s company runs across 250 4 ground during the advance, but the games consoles and DVD players, but that was of the tour. My civilian friends who are lawyers, 1 metres of open ground to reach platoon have reached the heart of the the extent of our home comforts. doctors or teachers are doing well, but they’re the first compound in Mazdurak village, finally dislodging the Taliban “You start your patrols at about four in the already starting to get bored in their jobs. I can’t morning. The temperature rises quickly during imagine that happening to me.” ▪

24 For more information go to armyjobs.mod.uk/graduate 25 reward

As an Educational and Training Officer, Cornel of the course, and I got the chance to lead and Was it a success? Oosthuizen’s job is to give soldiers the skills organise it. We went to Romania and trekked Yes. We trekked for six days and succeeded in they need to advance their careers. It’s a through the Transylvanian mountains. reaching the summit. It wasn’t a very technically rewarding job in itself, but by being in the What do you get out of leading an expedition? difficult climb but trekking at high altitude is “As a civilian  Army, Cornel has also had the opportunity to It gives you a great introduction to managing physically demanding. It was definitely worth the experience all the rewards that come with an a big group of people. I had to act as the main effort, though. You’re miles from the hassles of active lifestyle. She’s just returned from leading point of contact, coordinate all the transport and modern life, moving from village to village, an expedition to the Atlas mountains in Morocco. the logistics, and know when to step in and take experiencing something completely different I’d never have  charge. It gives you the kind of leadership skills from what you’re used to. Was it the adventurous training opportunities you can apply in the Army or in a civilian career. What was the most rewarding part? that led you to choose the Army? How did your most recent trip come about? Reaching the summit, but also being part of a been able to  Not quite, but the more I learned about the When I joined my unit, the commanding officer team. On all the expeditions and sporting trips Army, the more I realised how much it offered asked if I’d organise another expedition, this I’ve done, the social side is a real plus. You’re compared with a desk job. Going on operations, time to Morocco. I put together an expedition with people who have a lot in common and you doing loads of sports and living an outdoor life outline which set out our plans and what we can have a good laugh together. afford this” was much more appealing than working in an wanted to achieve. Our main aim was to reach Any plans for the future? office. The expeditions are an added bonus. the summit of Jbel Toubkal – the highest point I’m happy in the Army. I get to play loads of cornel oosthuizen When did you lead your first expedition? in North Africa. We were looking to develop our sport and do a lot of travelling. As a civilian, I’d lieutenant Adjutant ’s corps When I was doing my officer training at leadership, teamwork and navigational skills, never have been able to afford to go to all these Sandhurst. Going on an expedition is part challenging ourselves mentally and physically. places and do all the things that I’ve done.

the financial benefits your basic salary... As an Army officer you earn a very competitive salary. Your pay increases as you receive As an Army officer you’re regular promotions and you will be awarded on the path to some financial bonuses each time you deploy on amazing experiences operations overseas. ... and the added extras You receive a range of additional benefits that ensure that your basic salary goes further. If you choose to live in the officers’ mess, your food and accommodation will be heavily memberships and if you share Cornel subsidised. Medical care is free, and there’s Oosthuizen’s appetite for adventurous also a final salary pension scheme. There are training, you’ll find the costs of everything free sports facilities on all Army bases, so from parachuting to scuba diving can be met, you’ll have no need of expensive civilian gym in part, by one of the Army sports associations. leadership If you have leadership potential, the Army will give you the training, the experience and the support you need to make the most of it 30 How you develop your leadership skills 32 Your five-year career path leadership my career as a leader charlie haines captain

Why did you choose the Army? I wanted a job that has a clear promotion structure within which I’d have the chance to make a positive impact on other people’s lives. A career as an officer gives me both of these things. What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned? While you need to be confident in yourself and your decisions, you need to be able to understand the pressures on other people and how they react and respond. What has been the highlight of your Army officer career so far? Leading soldiers on an exercise in Canada. It was just me, the troop I was commanding “Leadership and our tanks. I was responsible for how well we performed – a big responsibility, but is central to very satisfying. everything you do as an Army officer” Charlie Haines was accepted for a commission what your soldiers will want from you when you while doing his A levels. He went to university join your first unit. and started officer training after he graduated. “You commission as a Second Lieutenant and Now on the staff at the Royal Military Academy hold that rank for a year, or a bit longer if you’re Sandhurst, he is well-qualified to talk about the a non-graduate. In your first job you’ll generally demands of leadership during an Army career. command a group of 30 soldiers, known as a “Leadership is central to everything you do troop in the armoured regiment I joined. My as an Army officer, starting at Sandhurst with troop were already on operations in Kosovo, so theoretical and practical exercises taught by I flew straight out to join them. experienced soldiers and officers who have done “Our job was to control the main border it for real. They lead by example, because that’s crossing because people had been smuggling »

30 19 leadership

where could i be in five years? commissioning Year Year 1 Years 2-4 Year 5 AS A REGULAR OFFICER Officer Cadet young Posted as a  Promotion pre- Promotion Sandhurst officers’ Second Lieutenant to Lieutenant promotion to Captain Developing your leadership potential course Your first job as a commissioned officer Building your leadership skills courses Taking on extra responsibility

Once you start officer After you have You take up your first posting in your regiment or corps. The As a graduate officer, you can expect to get You prepare for The next promotion training at the Royal been awarded your exact nature of your duties varies according to the role of the your first promotion after about a year and you your promotion to will see you taking Military Academy commission, you unit you join, but you will be in charge of a team of soldiers will also be on a higher pay scale than non- Captain by taking on extra leadership Sandhurst, you hold the complete a further with reponsibility for their welfare and effectiveness. graduate officers. Your role will be the same as a series of courses responsibility. You rank of Officer Cadet. course to give you it was when you were a Second Lieutenant. By over the preceding may lead a small You learn what makes a the skills and this point in your career you will probably have months. Subjects team of specialists good leader and are then knowledge that deployed on your first operational tour, giving include military or become second commissoned as a you will need in you the opportunity to put your leadership knowledge, tactics, in command of a Second Lieutenant. your new unit. skills to the test in a challenging environment. and leadership. larger unit. AS A territorial OFFICER Training for Territorial officers is delivered at Regional A series of short If you have already served in the University Officer Training Territorial officers After completing further courses to prepare you for the new Training Centres and culminates in a three-week residential courses help you Corps you will be eligible for promotion to Lieutenant after complete the same responsibilities that come with promotion, you become a course at Sandhurst, where you are commissioned as a Second put what you have With the first phase of training behind you, it’s time to start a year. Officers who joined directly from civilian life need two pre-promotion Captain. Depending on the available vacancies, you might be Lieutenant. Territorial soldiers and Professionally Qualified learned in context. serving as an officer. You will have the same responsibilities satisfactory reports from their senior officers and to be courses as the able to stay within your present regiment or corps and take Officers complete an accelerated version of officer training. as your Regular counterparts and will deploy on operations. recommended for promotion in their assessment. Regular officers. on a more senior role, or join a specialist unit.

being an army mum » drugs, weapons and even other people. There you run the troop. They recognise that you’re a when you’re on a long exercise. By the time we up of four troops, so I was in charge of four were some tricky situations, but we’d done so young officer and they work with you. came back we were a very effective team.” times the number of soldiers. I was right-hand katie hislop much training in similar scenarios at Sandhurst “I was promoted to Lieutenant after a year. “As I reached the end of my two-and-a-half- man to the squadron leader. I ran training and royal engineers that I knew what to do. That’s when you realise Responsibilities change with appointment rather year stint as a troop commander, we deployed to made sure all of the tanks were maintained. how much your leadership skills have evolved. than rank, so I was still a troop leader. It’s Iraq. To start with we were there to keep the “I deployed twice with the squadron. Once to How’s your career going? Is it hard to combine family “When we came back from operations the definitely one of the highlights of your career as peace and stop low-level crime, but as the tour Cyprus on peacekeeping duties, and then back Really well. I’ve commanded life with the Army? nature of my job changed. A lot of the pressure an officer. You work closely with your soldiers went on the insurgency began for real. to Iraq. This time was a lot more hectic, partly troops on operations in Iraq The maternity package is great. was off, but I was still responsible for the admin and learn about their strengths and weaknesses. “Stepping up from peacekeeping to fighting because my role had changed – I was in the ops and Kosovo, helped to teach You can take a total of a year and the welfare of the soldiers. That can feel is a real test of your leadership skills. You have to room controlling the troops on the ground – the next generation of officers off, and six months of that are daunting at first. They all come from different leading on active duty help your guys to make the mental transition by but it was fantastically rewarding and when I and have developed my on full pay. Although it is hard backgrounds and some might have had a tough “We deployed to Canada for our first large-scale spending time with them and listening to them. came back I was given the opportunity to return management skills as an work juggling family life and time growing up. They come to you with their exercise with the tanks. We were there for 33 We’d been together for about two years by then. to Sandhurst on the staff. Now I’m responsible assistant to the commanding a career, the Army is one of much according to plan. problems, from things that have happened in days and spent a lot of time on our own as a They trusted me, I trusted them, and that’s the for cadets who are at the start of the process I officer of a regiment. Right the best places to have a family. Hopefully I’ll still go on to their families to financial difficulties. troop, so I had ultimate responsibility for how bedrock of your relationship with your soldiers. began five years ago. I benefited from the now, I’m just about to go Has it affected your chances realise my career ambitions, “People skills become very important, but well we performed. I had to assert my authority “After we got back, I was promoted to Captain leadership experience of other soldiers and off on my second spell of of promotion? which include commanding there are always others around who can advise over the troop without hampering their talents and got a new appointment – I became second officers – now it’s time for me to add my own maternity leave. No. I’ve promoted pretty a squadron in the short term. you – either officers or the sergeant who helps and resolve the personality clashes that happen in command of a squadron. A squadron is made and help train the next generation of leaders.” ▪

32 For more information go to armyjobs.mod.uk/graduate 33 career On your route to an officer career you’ll have plenty of help to find your ideal role. With training and experience behind you, there’s no limit to what you could achieve 36 The selection process 39 Support during your studies 40 Your route to becoming an Army officer 42 Where to use your skills 44 Regiments and corps 60 Joining as a Professionally Qualified Officer 62 What to do next career

Starting The selection process “selection is

Joining the Army is a big decision. very intense It opens up opportunities and offers rewards that other careers cannot match, but massively 1but it also tests your physical and mental limits as well as your leadership ability. The selection rewarding” process is designed to make sure that you’re harriet pelling ready to take on these challenges. The process begins with an interview with university officer cadet your Army Careers Adviser (ACA). The ACA is an experienced Army officer who will be able When did you decide that you up to speed with current affairs to determine your basic suitability for Army life wanted to join the Army? and hit the gym so I was ready for and, if you are able to proceed, will discuss the While I was at school. I applied for the physical tests. next steps with you. the Undergraduate Bursary to What was the toughest part? If you want to join the Army but would like to help me financially at university. During the interviews they quiz complete your education first, your ACA will give To get accepted you have to you on a huge range of different you details of support that the Army can provide. complete officer selection and subjects to see how well you You may be able to apply for the Army Sixth Form agree to serve for at least three respond under pressure. After Scholarship scheme, a place at Welbeck Sixth years. I was accepted and went off that, the hardest part was waiting Form College or for an Undergraduate Bursary. to do Drama and Theatre Studies, to see if I’d passed. For more details on financial support, see page 39. but kept up with military life in the What happened next? University Officer Training Corps. After I found out that I’d passed, Is it difficult to pass selection? I went and did my degree, spent It’s challenging, but they’re some time working and travelling, looking for potential as much as and now I’m off to Sandhurst. anything else. You meet some What do you hope to achieve? Starting your good people there and when you It’s going to be challenging, so Taking the next steps towards all get stuck into the challenges right now I’d say that my main together it becomes good fun. aim is to pass the course and join officer training at the Royal Did you have to prepare? my chosen unit. Anything else will Army career Military Academy Sandhurst Yes. I read the newspapers to keep be an added bonus. aosb briefing Before attending the Army Officer basic standard of fitness to pass, so you might Selection Board (AOSB) Main find it helpful to do some training before you Board, you complete the AOSB apply. Your Army Careers Adviser will be able to Briefing. This lasts for one-and-a- give you more information on the requirements. half days and has two aims: to help During the Briefing, you will learn more about 2you decide if a career in the Army is right for the attributes that the Board looks for. You’ll also you, and to tell you more about the tests that will have the chance to practise the planning exercise be used in the next stage of the selection process. that features in the Main Board, along with There will also be some tests for you to some other useful techniques. complete during the Briefing. These include At the end of the Briefing, you’ll be advised on a series of mental aptitude tests, an informal whether you’re ready to progress or would benefit discussion and a fitness test followed by an from doing more preparation. For more details obstacle course. You’ll need to have a good, on the AOSB Briefing, see page 62.

36 For more information go to army.mod.uk/aosb 37 career

aosb supporting you through your studies main board ducation is important to the Army Sixth Welbeck – The Defence Army Undergraduate This lasts for three-and-a-half days Army. Life as an Army officer Form scholarships Sixth Form College Bursary and consists of a range of exercises Ecan be mentally challenging, These give parents or guardians Welbeck is a residential sixth-form An Army Undergraduate Bursary that will challenge your intellectual, and your ability to think your way financial support during your last college that provides a two-year gives you financial security while 3physical and leadership abilities. You will around problems is vital. two years of school in the form of A-level education in technical you study for your degree. The complete written tests, give a presentation and If you want to join the Army a £1500 grant paid for each year. subjects for students intending Army grants bursaries of £6000 take part in a series of outdoor exercises. but also plan to continue your Acceptance onto the scheme to become officers in one of the for a three-year course and £7000 The tests are challenging because they are education, there are a number of gives you a place at Sandhurst, technical corps of the Army. Tuition or £8000 for four- and five-year designed to see how well you react under ways that the Army can support which you must take up after you is free, though parents or guardians courses respectively. You join the pressure – one of the key demands on any you, from bursaries to places at have completed your education. may have to contribute towards University Officer Training Corps Army officer – and how you perform as a team the Army’s residential sixth-form Provided you get the right grades, living expenses. After Welbeck, and and will also be paid to take part member as well as the leader of a group. There college. All of these routes lead you will also be able to apply for provided you achieve the right in military training. is no single test by which you pass or fail. you towards a degree. Graduate the Army Undergraduate Bursary grades, you go to one of eight In return, you undertake to Up to 40 candidates attend the Board at any officers initially receive a higher to support you at university. approved UK universities where complete officer training at one time, divided up into mixed-sex groups of rate of pay, so it’s an ideal place to There are two Army Scholarship you’ll be entitled to £4000 per year the Royal Military Academy eight. It’s important to remember start your Army career. Competitions each year. You need until you start officer training. Sandhurst and to serve in the that you’re not competing with each For more information, talk to to be aged between 16 and 16½ You must be aged between 15 Army for a minimum of three other. All candidates are assessed your Army Careers Adviser or go on 1 January (for the spring and 17½ on 1 September on the years. If you are considering against a common standard, so your to armyjobs.mod.uk competition) or 1 July (autumn year of entry to the College, and a career as a doctor, nurse or success is based entirely on your own competition) to apply. You must have, or be predicted to get, 40 dentist you may be eligible for the personal performance. also have, or be predicted to gain, ALIS points (or 38 in Scotland) Cadetship Scheme (see page 60). If you succeed, you’ll be offered a 46 ALIS points (43 in Scotland) from from your best seven GCSE grades, To qualify for an Undergraduate place at the Royal Military Academy your best seven GCSE grades including a grade A and a grade B Bursary you must be reading, or Sandhurst where you will begin your including C/3 grades or better in in maths and physics/dual award have a confirmed place to read, initial officer training. If you don’t English language, maths and a science as well as a grade C or a degree at a recognised UK pass first time, don’t give up. All science or additional language. better in English Language. university or college. candidates are given two chances to For more information go to Find out more about Welbeck by To find out more go to pass the Main Board. armyjobs.mod.uk/education visiting www.dsfc.ac.uk/general armyjobs.mod.uk/education what happens at the aosb main board – 4 days of tests “y ou get financial day 1 taking tests » day 2 teamwork » day 3 leadership » day 4 Decision time Physical tests: After your arrival, Opening discussion: This lasts for Planning exercise: A theoretical Final race: On the last day you help while you you complete a series of fitness 40 minutes during which you and test of your ability to use people, take part in the final exercise – tests. This includes the timed the other members of your group equipment and time effectively. an outdoor team competition study and an ‘beep test’ as well as a given discuss a range of topics. Command tasks: Outdoor between all the different groups. number of press-ups and sit-ups. Interviews: There are a series of activities in which each member Introductory talk: The President of informal one-to-one interviews. takes turns at leading the group. What happens next? army career the Board passes on some useful You will probably be asked about Obstacle course: You have to The Board Officers meet to assess tips relevant to the next four days. your interests, ambitions and why negotiate as many obstacles as each candidate. The results are then when you finish” Written tests: You demonstrate you want to be an Army officer. possible within a set time limit. sent to each candidate by post. your written communication skills Outdoor tasks: You complete a Lecture: Each candidate gives a by writing an essay. You also team exercise, such as crossing five-minute talk and then takes complete written tests on general a space using ropes and planks. questions from the group. knowledge, current affairs and Tutorial: Staff give advice on the Dinner: You have a formal dinner Service knowledge. next day’s planning exercise. together in the Candidates’ Mess.

38 For more information go to armyjobs.mod.uk/graduate 39 career

short service becoming an army officer commission (ssc) university studies This is the first commission you There are many different paths to becoming an Army officer. This chart will help you find The course at Welbeck lasts for two receive as an officer and offers a years. Provided you get the right three-year term in the Army. You out which you need to follow, and how the Army may be able to help you along the way grades in your A levels, you then can extend it to eight years or progress to university. Most convert it into an Intermediate graduates of Welbeck will read for Regular Commission. welbeck – the a degree at one of eight Ministry defence sixth form of Defence approved universities, intermediate regular college (DSFC) Army officer including Oxford and Cambridge. commission (irc) year 11 student This is a residential college for those selection board (aosb) You receive a bursary and training You can apply for an Intermediate You’re studying for your GCSEs (or SCEs if you planning to join a technical corps. Students applying to the Defence Sixth Form pay during your course. Regular Commission after two live in Scotland) and have or expect the necessary College or for an Army Sixth Form Scholarship years’ service. The IRC allows you grades to allow you to continue your studies to army sixth form have to pass a day-and-a-half selection to serve for a maximum of 18 years A level. Your Army Careers Adviser will advise scholarship process at AOSB which involves a series of university studies royal military academy and you can apply for a full-career whether you are ready to take the next step. The Army could provide financial mental and physical tests. Over 80% of officers are graduates. sandhurst (RMAS) Regular Commission. support for your parents or guardians Many join after finishing university After completing your studies and provided while you study for your A levels. but others choose to apply for you have passed AOSB, you will be ready to regular financial support before they start. begin your officer training at the Royal commission (Reg c) Army officer Military Academy Sandhurst. The Regular Commission offers a selection board (aosb) the army bursary The Commissioning Course is divided into full career of 35 years or to the age university Student Everyone applying to become an officer has If you plan to study for a recognised three 14-week terms, during which you learn of 60, whichever comes first. You are studying for a degree or have already to pass the Army Officer Selection Board. first degree at a UK university or the same basic military skills as the soldiers graduated. Your Army Careers Adviser will explain college, the Army can provide you will command, including foot drill, the next stages. If you hold or expect to gain aosb briefing financial assistance through your weapons handling and how to survive in the certain professional qualifications, your route The AOSB Briefing lasts for a day and a half studies in the form of a bursary. field. In addition, you develop your leadership to a commission may be slightly different. and makes sure that you’re ready to appear You receive a large lump sum for potential through a series of practical exercises before the AOSB Main Board, as well as giving each year of your university studies based on infantry tactics. There is also an you a chance to find out more about the Army. with a further one-off payment academic component in which you study when you complete your officer military history, international affairs, aosb main board training at Sandhurst. Students on communications and management. After successfully completing the AOSB the Army Sixth Form Scholarship There are periods of leave between each sixth-form leaver Briefing, you attend the AOSB Main Board. Scheme will normally apply for an term, which are spent completing adventurous You have the right GCSE (or SCE) grades as well graduate This lasts for three-and-a-half days, during Army Undergraduate Bursary. training activities including a full-scale as the necessary A-level tariff points to apply to the which you complete fitness tests as well expedition organised as part of your training. Army Officer Selection Board. Your Army Careers as physical and mental challenges, such Potential officers with certain professional Adviser will help you decide when you are ready to as obstacle courses and problem solving qualifications can complete an abbreviated start the selection process. non-graduate exercises. You’ll also have a series of interviews version of the Commissioning Course known with members of the Main Board. as the Professionally Qualified Officers’ (PQO) Course and join one of the PQO corps.

as a territorial territorial pre-commissioning The Territorial Commissioning Course lasts commission territorial commission training three weeks. You spend a preparatory week After you have been commissioned, If you are already serving as a Territorial soldier You complete a two-week training at Sandhurst and return at a later date for a you receive additional training or a cadet in the UOTC, you can apply for officer course followed by a series of further two weeks. You can complete the appropriate to your specialism selection. There is also a Direct Entry Scheme for modules to prepare you for the course in a single block of three weeks if you and to qualify you for promotion. those who want to join straight from civilian life. Territorial Commissioning Course have sufficient time. The course is intensive, You can normally continue as a at Sandhurst. but the reward is a commission. Territorial officer until age 60.

40 41 career reward Royal armoured corps INFANTRY Assault tanks WHere will Assault platoons you use your INFANTRY Leadership ROYAL ENGINEERS ROYAL ENGINEERS engineering close skills? support group The ability to think clearly under regiment or as a doctor in a field ADJUTANT GENERAL’S CORPS pressure and to make decisions hospital, you’ll still be at the heart ROYAL ARTILLERY infantry when lives could depend on their of the action, using your skills in a overwatch outcome is the hallmark of an way that can make a real difference. air defence Army officer. This is why you’ll find All the units in the Army work them playing vital roles wherever together on operations. Apart from ROYAL the Army is operating. Modern roles in the RAC and Infantry, all tactical hq warfare means that the idea of careers are open to women. Look a single ‘front line’ is no longer at the illustration and ask yourself QUEEN ALEXANDRA’S ROYAL ARMY NURSING CORPS relevant. Whether you serve as a where the best place for you to use ROYAL ARMY veterinary CORPS platoon commander in an Infantry your leadership skills would be. ROYAL ARMY MEDICAL CORPS logistics how to find ROYAL SIGNALS Gathering and distributing information base the right role quickly and securely gives an important Careers in the Army are grouped into advantage on the battlefield. You’ll lead seven categories by the skills needed, the skilled, specialist soldiers who keep INTELLIGENCE CORPS and their roles on the battlefield. the information moving. ROYAL ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL ENGINEERS ARMY AIR CORPS gun line Combat roles require officers to lead Providing expert administrative support their soldiers from the front, often in to every single unit around the world close proximity to the enemy. Whatever is a demanding role. Army officers the task, being able to think quickly and also serve as police officers, lawyers, act decisively are vital skills. educators and chaplains. landing Officers in engineering units have the Officers in the ROYAL ARTILLERY job of finding solutions to practical provide a range of healthcare services problems on the battlefield. Here to military personnel and to working their technical skills are as much at animals. They keep up to date by a premium as their leadership skills. training alongside civilian counterparts. ROYAL LOGISTIC CORPS ROYAL ARMY CHAPLAINS’ DEPARTMENT

The Army relies on its supply chain to Military music and ceremonial events keep its soldiers equipped and able to give the Army an important link with its carry out their tasks. Officers manage past and keep traditions alive. Officers that process, ensuring that support is serving in ceremonial roles also deploy available wherever it’s needed. on operations.

42 33 career

Find your regiment There are 17 regiments to choose from in the Infantry. As an officer you can apply choosing to join any regiment, regardless of where they recruit their soldiers from  the Nationwide Worcestershire, Cheshire, Derbyshire, Merseyside, Nottinghamshire, your regiment West Midlands and Staffordshire  Nationwide THE ROYAL WELSH Wales or corps Each Army corps plays a vital part on the battlefield Nationwide the rOYAL IRISH REGIMENT and offers diverse roles for its people. The next few pages and explain where they all fit into the Army  Nationwide the pARACHUTE REGIMENT Nationwide Nationwide the Soldiers from Nepal, officers from the UK n Mechanised Infantry the rOYAL REGIMENT the Mechanised Infantry use the Bulldog armoured OF SCOTLAND  personnel carrier to deliver them into action. Scotland and London London, South West, , infantry Berkshire, Herefordshire, South n Armoured Infantry the pRINCESS OF WALES’S Yorkshire, Durham and Shrewsbury infantry soldiers give the Army its strength on The principal role of the armoured infantry is ROYAL REGIMENT the ground. From engaging the enemy in close to take and hold ground, equipped with fast Channel Islands, IOW, , More information on the Infantry regiments combat to delivering humanitarian aid, infantry and heavily armed Warrior vehicles. Kent, Sussex, Middlesex and Surrey and the roles that they specialise in can units use their training and expertise where it be found at army.mod.uk/infantry matters most – at the heart of the action. n Light role infantry the dUKE OF Accounting for a quarter of the Army’s total Highly mobile and versatile, light role infantry LANCASTER’S REGIMENT strength, the Infantry is split into regiments, operate in a wide range of environments, from Merseyside, Cumbria and Lancashire each with a strong identity based on its history mountains to urban areas. and traditions. Some recruit soldiers from the rOYAL REGIMENT specific areas of the country, but officers can First job OF FUSILIERS choose to join any regiment nationwide. London, Northumberland, Regiments rotate through four roles (below), After officer training you complete further Warwickshire and Lancashire apart from The Parachute Regiment and Royal training relevant to the role of your unit. Gurkha Rifles who act solely in the Air Assault You also do the 13-week Platoon Commander the rOYAL ANGLIAN role and Light role respectively. All regiments Battle Course which supplements the military REGIMENT may have a ceremonial role, or ‘public duties’. skills learned at Sandhurst and culminates East Anglia and East Midlands in a live firing exercise. You’ll then take n Air Assault Infantry command of a rifle platoon of 32 soldiers. the Using helicopters, aircraft or parachutes to carry You are responsible for their effectiveness as Yorkshire and Teesside them to key locations on the battlefield, air well as their welfare and career development. assault infantry rely on speed and surprise.

32 For more information go to armyjobs.mod.uk/graduate 45 career (HCAV) & ROYAL armoured corps (RAC)

The regiments of the The Royal Armoured Corps, which was Household Cavalry and formed from the historic cavalry regiments the Royal Armoured Corps and the , uses powerful present a potent combination and sophisticated armoured vehicles. It offers of mobility, protection and firepower. soldiers and officers a choice of combat, Equipped with the latest generation of reconnaissance and CBRN roles (see below) powerful tanks and other armoured vehicles, in the thick of the action. their role is to find enemy positions and destroy their armour by shock action. n Armoured Officers and soldiers in the Household Armoured regiments use the Challenger 2 main Cavalry belong to either The Life Guards or battle tank’s speed and hard-hitting main gun to The . They can also opt to overwhelm enemy units. serve in the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, which performs ceremonial duties n Formation reconnaissance Find your regiment on state occasions. Either way, they are trained This involves gathering first-hand information “as a leader fighters and also deploy on operations. on enemy units and movements, using stealth The regiments of the Royal Armoured Corps have different areas of specialism. and specialist observation equipment. you’re trusted All of these roles offer the chance to play a vital role in front-line action

n CBRN to make vital Household Cavalry 9th/ 12th Short for chemical, biological, radiological and Formation reconnaissance, ceremonial Formation reconnaissance nuclear, this role involves the detection of, and decisions. it’s decontamination from, hazardous materials. a great mix of 1st The Queen’s the King’s  n Ceremonial excitement and Dragoon Guards Royal Hussars The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment Formation reconnaissance Armoured parade during state occasions. responsibility” the royal Scots the First job Dragoon Guards Formation reconnaissance Armoured After completing officer training, you’ll take command of a troop. This is made up of the royal  the Queen’s  three tanks or tracked reconnaissance Dragoon Guards Royal Lancers vehicles, each with three or four crew Armoured Formation reconnaissance members. You will be responsible for your soldiers’ welfare and the troop’s efficiency as the Queen’s  Royal Tank Regiment a fighting unit. In the Household Cavalry Royal Hussars Armoured, CBRN Mounted Regiment, you will also train for Armoured ceremonial duties, in which you will be in charge of 30 soldiers and their horses. Full details of Royal Armoured Corps regiments, where they recruit and more about the roles that they specialise in can be found online at army.mod.uk/armoured

46 For more information go to army.mod.uk/armoured 47 career “The artillery have a huge The ROYAL range of roles. and every one ARTILLERY (RA) The soldiers and officers of Launch Rocket System uses powerful long-range to track enemy artillery fire and locate targets. the Royal Artillery operate rockets and GPS technology to attack targets, One of the units works closely with Special gets you close to the action” the Army’s big guns. From such as headquarters and fuel dumps, that are Forces on an operational basis. surveillance experts operating on outside the reach of conventional weaponry. the front line with the latest combat equipment n Ceremonial through to soldiers with rocket systems that n Specialist Forces The Royal Artillery has its own mounted unit, can clear kilometres of ground in an instant, The Royal Artillery has specialist units that the King’s Troop, which is based in London. the Gunners find targets and destroy them. provide artillery support to The Royal Marine Its guns are used to fire salutes and, along There are six main roles covered by the Commandos and The Parachute Regiment. with its distinctive black horses, the Troop Royal Artillery’s regiments. Each has a different Both use the air-portable 105mm Light Gun. plays a key part on many state occasions. part to play on the battlefield. Officers in the RA will serve in different roles with different n Air Defence First job regiments during their careers. Tasked with protecting ground units and important locations such as bridges and After completing officer training at n Close Support headquarters, the air defence regiments are Sandhurst you become a Troop Equipped with the hard-hitting AS90 self- equipped with surface-to-air missile systems Commander in charge of 30 soldiers and propelled gun or the highly mobile 105mm light that can bring down enemy aircraft. the equipment relevant to their job. Your gun, the close support regiments work alongside troop will be part of a larger unit known other combat units, using the force of their n Surveillance and as a battery, and it is as a battery that you firepower to knock enemy units out of action. Target Acquisition will deploy on operations. In addition to Royal Artillery surveillance units operate managing your troop, you will also have n General Support sophisticated technology, including radar a specific role within the battery. With a range of over 70km, the Guided Multiple and remotely controlled unmanned air vehicles

48 For more information go to army.mod.uk/artillery 49 career

n f ield engineers ROYAL Help clear obstacles and provide fresh water. engineers (RE) n airborne and commando engineers In conflict or in peacetime, the Corps resourceful and versatile. Leading them and Work closely with Paras and Commandos. of Royal Engineers rises to some of making the best use of their abilities is one of the toughest challenges that military the most rewarding engineering jobs anywhere. n the queen’s gurkha engineers life can present. Their role is to In the course of a career, an officer in the Officers command Gurkha soldiers from Nepal. provide engineering support, enabling other Royal Engineers will have the opportunity units to get on with their jobs. to achieve chartered engineer status or to n amphibious engineers From clearing a path through a minefield to become a chartered surveyor. You can expect Help units to cross rivers using amphibious rigs. providing clean water for an African village, to lead troops of soldiers in the following the Corps carries out a huge range of tasks. specialist roles. n AIR assault Engineers With specialist skills specific to their roles Parachute-trained to work with and support the as well as the combat engineering expertise n armoured engineers Air Assault Brigade. needed on the battlefield, its soldiers are Provide support to armoured regiments. n air support engineers Provide support to the RAF and Army aviation.

n bomb disposal engineers “there aren’t too Safely dispose of unexploded many other jobs enemy munitions. n geographic engineers where you get Give geographic support and paid for learning terrain analysis. n ro yal engineer to fly helicopters” divers Perform underwater construction and demolition.

main gun, the Apache is able to take on armament to maintaining the airframe and n specia l forces army everything from armoured vehicles to enemy managing the on-board electronics systems. Provide engineering support for Special Forces. tanks with speed and precision. Both in the air and on the ground, the air corps As well as striking targets, the Army Air opportunities offered by the Army Air Corps Corps plays a crucial part in identifying are as varied as its role. First job (aac) potential hazards for other units. The fast and You do not need a degree in engineering to agile Lynx helicopter moves ahead of the main First job become an officer in the Royal Engineers, The Army Air Corps is one of the force, locating enemy positions and relaying although if you have one you will get plenty smallest combat arms in the Army, the information back to the artillery. After completing officer training at Sandhurst, of chance to use your expertise. You will but its fleet of helicopters makes it The Corps airlifts soldiers and supplies into you attend a 16-month course to qualify as complete officer training at Sandhurst as well one of the most potent. Providing locations unobtainable by ground vehicles. It is an Army helicopter pilot. If you pass the as a course to prepare you for life as a Troop firepower from the skies, it has a unique role also instrumental in evacuating casualties, course, you undertake a three-year posting Commander. Your troop will consist of 30-40 to play on the modern battlefield. which makes it vital in humanitarian as a pilot with an Army Air Corps Squadron. soldiers able to undertake any battlefield With its Apache attack helicopters, the Corps operations as well as on the battlefield. Officers will then look to become Aircraft engineering or construction task. You will be delivers hard-hitting support to ground forces Every helicopter is backed by groundcrew Commanders before taking charge of a small responsible for their effectiveness and for the during the key stages of a battle. Equipped who are skilled in all aspects of preparing these unit of Army aircraft, known as a ‘flight’. management of their careers and welfare. with anti-tank missiles, rockets and a fearsome machines for operations, from loading the

50 For more information go to army.mod.uk/air For more information go to army.mod.uk/royalengineers 51 career

ROYAL “we have the signals job of keeping In the operational arena, Intelligence is passed from the front line to decision- the army one makers, orders are issued to combat units, targets are identified and soldiers step ahead of communicate with each other. All of these processes rely on the . It’s the enemy” their job to ensure that vital information can be relayed and exchanged quickly and securely. The challenge of providing safe, reliable communications under difficult conditions means the Royal Signals has to keep up with cutting-edge technology. The most recent addition to the arsenal is a tactical system that combines GPS with high-security voice and data transmission in one package, functioning like a giant, integrated military internet. In addition to working with this system, Signals specialists are able to set up and run communications networks from scratch and have the skills needed to repair the various components, from cabling to generators.

intelligence (or OPINT) involves analysis and communications between enemy units. the interpretation of information gathered from various sources. Counter intelligence includes n IMagery intelligence [IMINT] intelligence identifying and countering threats to domestic Interpreting imagery from a variety of sources, and military security, including terrorist threats. including satellites and reconnaissance aircraft. First job corps There are four further specialist areas: “your job is to get n First job After completing officer training and the The Intelligence Corps gathers Human Intelligence [HUMINT] five-month Troop Commanders’ course, information on the enemy using the Gathering information from refugees, civilians After officer training, the Intelligence Corps you take command of a Signal Troop the best from the latest technology, while also preventing and prisoners of war. Officers’ course and initial attachment to a comprising up to 50 skilled communications hostile groups from gathering their combat unit, you are posted as an Intelligence specialists and 20 communications vehicles. own information about the Army. n Signals Intelligence [SIGINT] Section Commander. Sections are small Officers utilise the individual strengths of experts you lead” Many soldiers and officers in the Corps are Intercepting and analysing enemy transmissions groups of military intelligence experts that their soldiers and offer support, guidance graduates, and the nature of the work means sent as faxes, emails or via satellite. often work on their own initiative. Your job and advice to create a hard-working unit and plenty of chances to learn foreign languages will be to get the best out of your team, and close-knit team that performs every time. as well as the necessary specialist skills. n Electronic Warfare [EW] to decide what information is significant. There are two core disciplines. Operational Operating close to the front line to disrupt

52 For more information go to army.mod.uk/signals For more information go to army.mod.uk/intelligence 53 career ROYAL ROYAL logistic ELECTRICAL & corps (rlc) MECHANICAL

The RLC is the driving force of the ENGINEERS Army and is responsible for keeping 100,000 soldiers worldwide equipped (REME) and fed. It is the most diverse corps in the Army and offers the largest range of jobs. The Royal Electrical and Mechanical On operations overseas, a single armoured Engineers are responsible for the division requires 1000 tonnes of supplies every maintenance and repair of all Army day. Providing these would be a challenge for equipment, from 9mm pistols to any logistics organisation under normal Challenger 2 tanks. REME’s expert technicians conditions, but the Army has to make sure its have the skills needed to fix equipment and get supply chain holds together in conflict zones. it back into the hands of the There are five main roles within the Corps: soldiers who need it. Many REME units operate n Transport and distribution close to the front line, where Transport units deal with the movement of food the demands on equipment and equipment to anyone who needs them. and the need to keep it serviceable are at their most n Maritime operations intense. Known as 1st Line With its own fleet of vessels, the RLC also handles Units or Light Aid cargo in areas without proper port facilities. Detachments, they work alongside other corps n Supply operations carrying out basic repairs The RLC manages and stores critical supplies like to their vehicles and fuel, food and ammunition. weaponry, as well as offering engineering advice. These are backed by 2nd Line Units, or n Catering operations REME battalions, who have the means to make RLC Chefs provide nutritious meals for Army units more complex repairs and provide in-depth by managing, preparing and delivering food. equipment support further from the front line. As every deployable unit in the Army has its n Specialist roles own REME support team, REME officers and There are many of these, ranging from bomb soldiers can also serve with units such as The disposal to running the Army’s postal service. Parachute Regiment and The Commandos. First job First job On completion of officer training, which After completing officer training and the “you lead a team includes the RLC’s Young Officer Training REME Platoon Commanders’ Course, you Course, you take up your first posting as a will be posted to command a technical Troop Commander. No matter what the platoon in a 2nd Line Unit or join a Light Aid whose job is to find specific role of your Troop, your job will be to Detachment as second in command. No look after the welfare of your soldiers, help matter which type of unit you join, you will practical solutions manage their careers, and direct their skills be responsible for the training, welfare and and abilities towards getting the job done. career management of its soldiers. to problems” 54 For more information go to army.mod.uk/rlc For more information go to army.mod.uk/reme 57 career Army Medical Services (AMS)

The royal army n Field Hospitals Veterinary Officers apply their expertise in medical corps (ramc) These units provide care for all injuries. Large the defence context. This may be the clinical From first aid on the front line, to and complex, they are rarely moved and provide care of military working animals (horses and physiotherapy for sports injuries, the an NHS standard of healthcare. dogs), veterinary public health (such as Royal Army Medical Corps provides surveillance for disease and biological attacks) first-class healthcare for every soldier Royal Army and medical intelligence. and officer in the Army. Veterinary Corps (ravc) The RAVC deploys on operations to look In the UK, the Corps works closely with the The RAVC deal with every aspect of after the Army’s animals, but also to advise NHS, ensuring that its personnel keep up with animal use within the military. Small commanders on the best means of employing the latest medical practice and train for further and highly specialised, the Corps sees them. They also have a humanitarian role to postgraduate medical qualifications. its people travelling all over the world. play, providing veterinary care to animals When the Army deploys on operations, the owned by civilians in areas of conflict. RAMC goes with them to provide high-quality medical care where it’s needed most. It also has Royal Army a humanitarian role to play and often gives Dental Corps (radc) life-saving medical aid to civilian populations. The RADC takes care of the Army’s There are three types of medical unit: dental health. Along with the other members of the Army Medical n Cl ose Support Services, its specialists help to ensure Medical Regiment that soldiers are fit and able to carry out duties. This provides medical support to front-line units, Dental Officers operate from within a treating casualties or arranging their evacuation network of medical centres across the world. “the challenge is to deliver to more specialised facilities. Treatment is carried out in large, multi-chair practices. When units deploy overseas on n high-quality medical care G eneral Support exercises and operations, Dental Officers Medical Regiment become part of small, mobile surgeries within This treats a wide range of injuries in large-scale larger field medical units. wherever the army operates” medical facilities further from the front line. One of the main differences from civilian

practices is that Dental Officers are not Members of the Corps work in service First jobs restricted by what the patient can afford. As hospital units, which are attached to NHS all costs are met by the Army, treatment is hospitals, or in medical centres in the UK and Doctor year or civilian pharmacy MEDICAL Support on your experience. You’ll will be posted to a dental based on clinical need. overseas. When the Army deploys on operations, You can apply as as a fully experience. Your first Officer lead a skilled nursing team, practice and deploy on All Dental Officers are required to undertake nursing personnel work in field hospitals or in registered doctor, or for posting will be to a You don’t need a medical oversee their professional operations if necessary. continuing professional development. medical regiments. QARANC nurses have been sponsorship through your pharmacy, managing the degree to apply for this development and assist Postgraduate training is funded by the Army part of medical teams in Iraq and Afghanistan, training. After Sandhurst supplies and logistics. support role. MSOs are the ward manager. Veterinary Officer and leads to higher professional qualifications. and have played important humanitarian roles you’ll become a Medical responsible for the smooth To apply you must be a in Rwanda and Angola, caring for victims of Officer responsible for Physiotherapist and efficient management Dental Officer member of the Royal Queen Alexandra’s Royal famine and conflict. treating soldiers, often in You complete an Entry of the RAMC (see page 58). You begin at the rank of College of Veterinary Army Nursing Corps (QARANC) Professional development is one of a front-line unit. Officers’ Course before Captain and will follow an Surgeons. You will take Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army QARANC’s highest priorities. It funds study your first posting in a Nursing Officer accredited development responsibility for managing Nursing Corps provides the Army days for its nurses so that they can gain Pharmacist hospital or at primary care You complete a ten-week training programme in the welfare of a small team, Medical Services with their nursing second qualifications via specialist courses Pharmacists can apply after level, providing treatment course and enter the Army or the UK. After and provide treatment and expertise. Home to over 800 fully such as ITU and A&E. Nurses can also boost a pre-registration training for military personnel. as a Lieutenant, depending gaining experience, you training for Army animals. qualified professionals, the Corps helps to their academic prospects with a range of deliver a high standard of Army healthcare. postgraduate qualifications. »

56 For more information go to army.mod.uk/ams 57 reward medical support officer (ramc) THE ADJUTANT The Royal Army Medical Corps relies on teams of medical experts to provide soldiers with the general’s highest standard of clinical care. Those same experts rely on the organisational abilities of corps (AGC) Medical Support Officers (MSOs) to provide everything from planning to staff training. The Adjutant General’s Corps is Unlike other officers in the RAMC, Medical made up of four branches. Each has Support Officers do not need to have degrees a very different role, from policing or professional experience in a related subject to training, but what they have in area. They do the 44-week commissioning common is that they all deal with the Army’s course before moving on to specialist training most important asset – its people. Many at the Defence Medical Services Training officers in the AGC are graduates and some Centre and then take up their first posting, have relevant professional experience. The Corps normally as a Troop Commander in charge gives them the chance to develop new skills of a small team of healthcare experts. and apply existing ones in a practical context. After completing this posting, MSOs will be able to serve in a wide variety of appointments n S taff and Personnel as they gain experience and get promoted. This Support Branch (SPS) might involve commanding soldiers who have Every unit in the Army has its team of SPS been tasked with providing medical support to specialists, making this branch the largest in combat troops, or the control and coordination the Corps. Their role is to look after all the of a 200-bed field hospital with over 100 staff. documentation, pay and financial records of During the course of their Army careers, the unit they are attached to. Medical Support Officers will move between the five medical regiments. These are mobile, n R oyal Military Police (RMP) self-contained units that specialise in giving The RMP provide the Army with policing medical support to different areas of the Army, expertise wherever it operates. This can involve ranging from airborne to armoured regiments. general police duties such as law enforcement As with all officer roles in the Royal Army royal army chaplains’ and accident investigation, as well as more Medical Corps, MSOs will have the chance to specific duties when the Army deploys overseas gain extra qualifications during their careers. department (RAChD) on operations, including liaison with host nations or securing supply routes. Fast track The Royal Army Chaplains’ Applicants to the Royal Army Chaplains’ your Army career Department provides spiritual Department come from all the different n E ducational and First jobs leadership, moral guidance and denominations of the Christian church and Training Services (ETS) If you already have certain professional pastoral support to Army personnel there are also advisers from each of the other An all-officer and all-graduate branch, the ETS Staff and Personnel Military Police Officers’ a Post Graduate Certificate qualifications you could be on the fast track and their families, irrespective of religion or major religions. provides education and training across the whole Support Branch Course, then take command of Education ready for your to becoming an officer in the Army. The belief, wherever the Army operates. of the Army. This can range from short courses After officer training, you of a platoon of 25 RMP non- first posting to the Army Professionally Qualified Officers’ course at Members of the RAChD join the Army as on literacy and languages for soldiers and their complete specialist training commissioned officers. You Foundation College or an the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst lasts ordained ministers with a minimum of three First job families, through to extended programmes of in HR/management support, will look after their welfare, Army Education Centre. for just four weeks, compared to 44 weeks years’ experience. They commission as chaplains, After the PQO course (see page 60), you study designed to prepare officers for promotion. administration, IT and finance. manage investigations and for the full Commissioning Course, and is not as officers, and are referred to as ‘Padres’, attend a course to learn more about the In your first posting you’ll be provide police support. Army Legal Services open to eight different types of professional not by a conventional military rank. Chaplains challenges of military ministry. You will then n A rmy Legal Services (ALS) responsible for a detachment You can apply as a PQO (see holding the relevant degrees: wear the same uniform as the soldiers and be posted to your first unit. Each posting All the members of the ALS are officers and all of 20 military clerks. Educational and page 60) and commission as n Doctors n Veterinary Surgeons n Dentists officers they work alongside, but do not carry lasts for two to three years and will involve have previous experience as qualified solicitors Training Services Captain with a three-month n Nurses n Pharmacists n Physiotherapists weapons and are non-combatants. working with around 700 soldiers and their or barristers. They provide the Army with legal Royal Military Police After passing out from attachment to a combat unit. n Lawyers n Chaplains On operations, a Padre deploys with his unit, families. You will have the opportunity to expertise, a role which can range from prosecuting On completing officer Sandhurst, you complete ETS You then take up a position For more information, see page 60. providing help and pastoral support for anyone continue your theological studies. at courts martial to advising senior commanders training, you attend the officer training. This gives you in the UK, Germany or Cyprus. who may need it – even enemy soldiers. on different aspects of international law.

58 For more information go to army.mod.uk/chaplains For more information go to army.mod.uk/agc 59 career career

A CAREER AS A You can also stay in your existing civilian PROFESSIONALLY QUALIFIED OFFICER career while serving as a PQO in your spare life as a pqo time by joining as a Territorial and completing the Territorial PQO course. To find out more johann jeevaratnam about your options, get in touch with your lieutenant medical officer Army Careers Adviser. Turn to page 62 for “You get a MUCH details of how to contact them. Johann was granted the provisional rank of Second Lieutenant when he was accepted Doctor (ramc) for his cadetship. He became a Lieutenant The Army’s doctors work in general practice as on provisional registration as a doctor, and more varied well as in most of the secondary care disciplines. will become a Captain when he gains full GMC registration. Completing officer training pharmacist (ramc) at Sandhurst will confirm him in this rank. Deals with a range of pharmaceutical matters, career than including storage, security and prescription. Why did you decide to join the Army? I chose medicine as a career when physiotherapist (ramc) I was 14 and decided on the Army in civilian life” Treats a wide range of musculo-skeletal disorders two years later. It’s a way for me tristan davies and plays an important role in rehabilitation. to have two careers in one, and major prosecutor as you get paid as soon as you veterinary surgeon (ravc) receive a rank, it meant that Is responsible for the selection, care, treatment I was paid throughout my and training of military working animals. training. That takes care of a lot of your money worries. Professional expertise is highly valued by the dentist (radc) Are you expected to deploy Army. All officers are expert leaders, trained to Works in a range of environments from small, on operations soon? a high standard at the Royal Military Academy mobile surgeries to large dental practices. Yes – that’s one of the Sandhurst, but some officers also have skills main attractions of the and qualifications from their civilian careers nursing officer (qaranc) job, as I’ll be dealing that they are able to apply to an Army role. Leads teams of multi-skilled nurses working with very different There are eight different officer jobs in this in medical facilities all over the world. cases to the ones category that reflect the diversity of professions I’d expect to see if found in civilian life: doctors, dentists, nursing lawyer (als) I spent my whole officers, lawyers, pharmacists, physiotherapists, Officers in the Army Legal Services provide the career working veterinary surgeons and chaplains. Army with a wide range of legal expertise. in the UK. Entrance requirements are higher than for other officer jobs. Applicants must have chaplain (rachd) professional qualifications and experience, Provides spiritual leadership, moral guidance and but there are some significant benefits. pastoral support for soldiers and their families. You complete a shorter version of the Commissioning Course known as the PQO medical cadetships Course. This lasts for just four weeks, compared with 44 weeks for other Regular officer roles, but n Students considering careers as doctors, n To qualify, you must be reading a relevant provides an intense introduction to all the same dentists or nurses in the Army may be degree at a recognised UK Medical School skills, such as drill, living under field conditions eligible for medical cadetships n You may attend the University Officer and leadership in a military context. Applicants n Cadetships take the form of financial Training Corps but there is no obligation  will reach a good standard of fitness. sponsorship during your university studies to start military training until you are fully Where other officers are commissioned from n You could receive an annual salary while you qualified in your profession Sandhurst as Second Lieutenants, a PQO can study, and have all your tuition fees paid for n After qualifying, you serve in the Army for expect to be commissioned in a higher rank by the Ministry of Defence a minimum of five years and at a correspondingly higher pay grade.

60 For more information go to army.mod.uk/graduate For more information go to armyjobs.mod.uk/graduate 61 career Are you ready to take the next step? Your Army Careers Adviser will answer your questions on how to start the application process. If you’re not already in touch with an Adviser, visit armyjobs.mod.uk/graduate or call 08457 300 111

Your Army Careers Adviser will help you decide What to expect n Practical techniques: You are advised if life as an officer is right for you. When you’re n Introductory talks: You learn more about the on some of the skills you will need to ready to apply, the next step is to attend the Army, the timetable of the Briefing and about demonstrate at the AOSB Main Board. Army Officer Selection Board Briefing, which the next stages of the selection process. n Physical tests: You complete a ‘beep’ test the offer n takes place at Westbury in . Opening discussion: Candidates split up into which involves running between two lines Whichever role you take up in the Army, we will At the Briefing, you’ll undertake a series of groups and then test their debating skills by set 20 metres apart inside steadily decreasing help you make the best of your skills. When the tests to check that you’re prepared for the next discussing important issues in the news. time intervals marked by a beep. You’ll also time comes to leave the Army, you’ll have the stages of the application process. Your Army n Mental aptitude profile tests: These test complete a short obstacle course. qualifications and practical experience you need to Careers Adviser will give you information and verbal, numerical and abstract reasoning. After the Briefing, if you decide you’re ready for make a success of your new career in civilian life. will be able to arrange visits to different units. n Planning exercise tutorial: Group working Army life, the AOSB Main Board will further You can also visit the AOSB’s own website at through a written scenario which involves assess your officer potential. The whole The core offer army.mod.uk/aosb to find out more. analysing and solving practical problems. selection process is summed up below. n Leadership and management training n Fast promotion n Study for further qualifications yes, I want to serve full time n Highly competitive salary Get expert Take some Pass the Start your n Free medical and dental treatment advice tests selection process training n Advice on resettlement in a civilian career n Final salary pension scheme Speak to an Army You’ll be invited If you are ready Officer training n Careers Adviser. to the Army you attend the lasts for 44 Sports, outdoor activities and adventurous training n They will help you Officer Selection AOSB Main Board weeks. It teaches Financial sponsorship 1 decide if an officer 2 Board Briefing. 3 where you undergo 4 core military and n Six weeks’ paid annual leave career is right for you This will provide more further assessment. If you leadership skills and if n Subsidised food and accommodation and explain the different information and tests to pass you’ll be offered a you are successful, you routes you can take help you decide if you’re place at the Royal Military are commissioned as Territorial benefits towards a commission. ready to proceed. Academy Sandhurst. a Second Lieutenant. Serving in your spare time as a Territorial means that you combine all the benefits of a civilian career with many benefits of Army life. yes, I want to serve in my spare time n Leadership and management training n Get paid to train Get expert Take some Pass the Start your n advice tests selection process training Get new skills n Be part of a team Speak to an Army You’ll be invited You will attend the Your training Careers Adviser, to the Army AOSB and then continues at your call into your local Officer Selection undergo further unit. You’ll have Non graduate? 1 Army Careers 2 Board Briefing. 3 training to prepare 4 plenty of chances It’s not essential to have a degree if you want Information Office This will provide more you for the three-week to add to your skills, to become an Army officer – you can apply for or contact your local information and tests to Territorial officer course take part in adventurous officer training with a minimum of 180 UCAS Territorial unit to find help you decide if you’re at the Royal Military training activities and tariff points. a role that suits you. ready to proceed. Academy Sandhurst. go on exercises.

62 reward “the army is a big organisation, and you’re a key part of it”

The Army divides its roles into seven job groups, and officers have a part to play in all of them.

The Army welcomes people from all backgrounds. Whatever your race, ethnic origin, gender, religion or belief, there is a role for you in our team. No account is taken of sexual orientation, RG/ACG/009 December 2008 social background or marital/civil partnership status; we have

Produced for the Ministry of Defence by Army Recruiting Group a strict code of conduct that ensures zero tolerance of bullying, TT-COC-002383 Crown Copyright December 2008 harassment, discrimination and victimisation on any grounds.

32 For more information go to armyjobs.mod.uk/graduate