Challenge East soldier training
Training is at the heart of Territorial Army (TA) life. Whether it’s in a classroom, on an exercise or at camp, your training will be key to your personal development. All recruits taking part in Challenge East will learn the basics of being a soldier. Spread over four weeks at Grantham, Lincolnshire you’ll learn a range of skills such as fieldcraft, first aid, map reading and weapon handling. This is known as phase one training.
After successful completion of this four week programme all recruits will be passed out at a special ceremonial parade at Grantham on August 22 2008 which your family and friends can attend. There will also be an option to complete a further two weeks of trade training between August 24 – September 7 2008 – earning an extra £560 gross (approx).
To be selected for Challenge East you will have to pass a fitness test. Click here to go to the programme that sets out a fitness timetable for you to follow which will maximise your opportunity to pass this test.
Fieldcraft
The art of camouflage. You will be taught how to hide your appearance in different surroundings. You will also be taught how to detect others who are using the same techniques.Physical training
All soldiers need to be physically fit. Starting off slowly and gradually working your way up you will be trained to the basic level of fitness required for everyone who is in the Army.First aid
Military first aid differs from that of civilian first aid in that you will learn how to treat casualties with injuries sustained on the battlefield, such as gunshot and shrapnel wounds.Map reading
As a soldier you will need to be able to find your way from one point to another in all types of terrain and weather conditions by day or night using the aid of a map and compass.Passing out
Those who successfully complete Challenge East will be passed out at a special ceremonial parade at Grantham on August 22 2008. This event is open to family and friends.
After Challenge East
On successful completion of Challenge East you will return to your unit. At this unit you can continue your trade training. The specific trade you learn will depend not only in the requirements of your particular unit, but also on your existing skills. It could be anything from driving a lorry to operating a radio.
Your trade training could mean learning to adapt your civilian skills to a military context, developing entirely new skills or expanding on your area of expertise. Those who demonstrate innate leadership qualities could be considered for officer training at The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Click here for more information.
Depending on your unit you will be expected to do a minimum of 27 or 19 days training a year. Your training days are divided between mid-week drill nights, weekend training and an annual 15 day camp. If you complete Challenge East you will already have completed your minimum annual allocation for your first year and will be eligible for a bounty payment.