Joining the British Army: Basic Training

Once you have finished your session at the Army Selection Centre, you will be given a grade.

This impacts on how long you will have to wait to be invited to start your Initial Training.

In addition to this, your final role depends on the number of places the Army has available for each specific trade.

Don't worry though - at this stage you will have the opportunity to sit down and talk through your options with an Army Careers Adviser.

What will I learn?

Like all jobs, you have to start off with the basics - this will help ease you into Army life.

Most of this will take place in a classroom, where you will learn about weapon handling, first aid, tactics, map reading and much more.

You will also undergo training to improve your fitness, confidence and teamwork skills.

If numeracy, literacy and communication are not some of your strong points, you will receive help with these too.

Where will I learn?

Initial Training takes place at half a dozen locations around the UK, but where you will be stationed exactly depends on how old you are, and which section of the Army you will be joining.

All Army infantry over the age of 17 are trained at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick, North Yorkshire.

If you are between 16, and 17 years and 5 months, you will be placed at either the Army Foundation College in Harrogate, or the Army Technical Foundation College, Winchester.

All non-infantry over the age of 17 will either be stationed at the Army Training Centre, Pirbright or the Army Training Regiment, Bassingbourn.

I'm nervous about joining the Army

Try not to worry too much - treat it like you're starting any other job.

Let's face it, if the Army didn't think you were up to it, they wouldn't have selected you - would they?

You'll be given lots of help and support along the way from your superiors, and you'll have your team mates to lean on too, who will also be in the same boat as you.

If you're still concerned, take a look at these videos on the British Army website. Here, real soldiers talk about why starting basic training isn't so scary, when they get to take a break, what happens after your Initial Traning, and more.

You can find out more about Army life on the British Army website - the videos here will give you a better idea of what it's like living in Army accommodation, and how you can spend your free time relaxing.

The Army also places particular emphasis on their Values and Standards, as well as your welfare - so rest assured, you will be well looked after.