INITIAL TRAINING
Initial training (also known as Phase 1 or basic training) is where you'll learn to become a soldier. You'll be taught about what it means to be a soldier and how the Army works as well as learning survival and fieldcraft skills, first aid, and how to use a rifle. Plus you'll work on your health and fitness levels. At the end you'll pass out with your friends in front of your family.
WHERE WILL I TRAIN?
The training centre you'll go to depends on the Corps that you join:
Catterick, Yorkshire: Infantry
Pirbright, Surrey: Army Air Corps, Royal Artillery, Royal Signals, Adjutant General’s Corps, Army Medical Services and Intelligence Corps.
Winchester, Hampshire: Royal Armoured Corps, Royal Engineers, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.
Harrogate, Yorkshire: If you’re joining as a junior soldier you’ll start your Army life at Harrogate. Here you’ll learn about the Army and soldering skills, but also learn from civilians in subjects like ICT, maths and English, if you need it.
WHAT IS HARROGATE?
Achieve more than you ever imagined, all before you turn 18. At the Army Foundation College, Harrogate, you can make yourself - and everyone around you - proud.
You'll become a well-rounded Junior Soldier - physically, conceptually and morally, as you learn soldiering skills, undertake adventurous training and develop yourself alongside people who will become friends for life.