Hello, thanks for the question, the types of courses you have access to will largely depend on what Infantry Regiment you want to join, I recommend having a look at the Army website to see what capabilities each Unit fields. Generally speaking though, you will need to complete the Platoon Commander's Battle Course in Brecon after you finish RMAS. This is largely focused on Light Role infanteering at the Platoon level, commanding c. 30 soldiers in 3 Sections. Following that you may need to complete additional training depending on your Regiment's role, for example PARAs will do P Coy and Armoured Infantry complete the Armoured Infantry Platoon Commanders Course. Later in your career you may be able to command one of the specialist platoons and complete the Reconnaissance, Anti-tank, Machine Gun or Mortar Platoon Commanders Course. You could specialise further and chose to transfer to the RANGERs where you could command a team of roughly 15 soldiers. All of these courses balance leadership and combat specialism, but are taught in the field in a realistic training environment rather than in the classroom. If you joined as a Regular Soldier it would likely take around 6-8 years to become a Cpl and take command of a Section of 8 soldiers.

Noting your age and whilst you still have nearly two years before the cut off for application, I would aim to apply sooner rather than later as it can take some time to get through the process and the training will take about 18 months in total (12 months in RMAS and 3-6 month specialism).

My own experience is in Armoured Infantry and I have found leading infantry soldiers to be immensely rewarding and enjoyable - it is an immense privilege to lead soldiers. This is particularly evident when compared to the jobs my friends in the civilian world have. Your ability as both a soldier and leader are important so there are lots of opportunities to develop practical soldiering skills as well as leadership - you should be able to do anything that you ask your soldiers to do.

Hope that helps, let me know if you have any further questions.

14 February, 2024 10:01