I LOVE WORKING WITH DOGS AND HORSES
THIS GIVES ME A HUGE MORALE BOOST AND THE JOB SATISFACTION I CRAVE.
Training For The Role
Step 1
You'll start with your initial military training which will teach you how to be a soldier - this will cover everything from fieldcraft to how to handle a rifle. Your initial training will be at either Pirbright or Winchester and last for 14 weeks.
Step 2
You'll then progress to your trade training at the Defence Animal Centre at Melton Mowbray. You'll learn veterinary nursing skills, military-dog-handling skills and how to manage veterinary equipment.
Entry Requirements
Age:
17 years 6 months - 35 years 6 months
Qualifications: Four GCSEs Grade A - C / 9-4 including English Language, Registered as a Veterinary Nurse with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
Fitness:
- Mid Thigh Pull 46kg
- Medicine Ball Throw 3.1m
- 2km run 11m 15s (11m 30s for Junior Entry)
Qualifications You Could Get After Training
The Army will support and train you throughout your career, offering you considerable opportunities to develop your skills.
Rank Progression
Learn about rank progression here.
Pay and Benefits
“I have worked with horses and dogs, carrying out routine healthcare procedures such as vaccinations and administering veterinary care under the direction of the Veterinary Officer. The work is canine or equine-based. I am given a lot of responsibility; people ask for advice and listen, and I am trusted to perform veterinary tasks. This gives me a huge morale boost and the job satisfaction I crave. The Army has also given me the chance to go trekking in the Himalayas; the opportunity of a life time. I’m excited about having the chance to explore the world.”
HOW TO APPLY
Once your online application has been approved, you'll meet with a local recruiter. This is your chance to tell us about the role that you're interested in. When you go to the Assessment Centre,you'll take tests - the results will show whether you'd be suitable for this role, or should consider a different role.
Training For The Role
Step 1
You will complete your initial training over 4 weekends at your Unit or a central location found across the UK. If it suits you better, you can condense this into a 1 week training course.
Step 2
You will then attend a 2 week long training course at an Army Training Centre, these are located across the UK.
Step 3
Once your basic soldiering training is complete, you will move on to do trade specific training with your Unit.
Entry Requirements
Age:
18 years - 49 years 6 months
Fitness:
- Mid Thigh Pull 46kg
- Medicine Ball Throw 3.1m
- 2km run 11m 15s (11m 30s for Junior Entry)
Qualifications:
Four GCSEs Grade A–C/9-4 including English Language. Registered as a Veterinary Nurse with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.
Qualifications You Could Get After Training
On successful entry into the Army Medical Services Reserve you will be eligible to apply for funding for Professional Qualifications to help you in your role with the Army Medical Services.
Pay and Benefits
You'll get paid a day rate according to your rank, starting from £39.34 in training and rising to £50.21 per day once you're a Private. This includes being paid for weekly drill nights. Plus, if you complete all of your annual training days, you're entitled to a tax-free lump sum called a bounty.
From the Field
“As I was already a trained Vet Nurse, my military training was where I needed to focus. I had a great time on my Phase 1 course, learning to be a soldier. Marching off the parade square was a very proud moment. Since then, I have trained as a Protection dog handler and deployed on exercise with the Military Veterinary hospital in my clinical role. I really am getting the best of both worlds.” – LCpl Rowland
HOW TO APPLY
Once your online application has been approved, you'll meet with a local recruiter. This is your chance to tell us about the role that you're interested in. When you go to the Assessment Centre,you'll take tests - the results will show whether you'd be suitable for this role, or should consider a different role.
