Armed Forces

 

Army

The British Army is the principal land warfare force of the United Kingdom, a part of British Armed Forces. As of 2017, the British Army comprises just over 80,000 trained regular (full-time) personnel and just over 26,500 trained reserve (part-time) personnel.

How to join…

The minimum age is 16 (after the end of GCSEs), although soldiers under 18 may not serve in operation. The maximum recruitment age was raised in January 2007 from 26 to 33 years, and the maximum age for Army Reserve soldiers is higher. A soldier would traditionally enlist for a term of 22 years, although recently there has been a shift towards 12-year terms with a 22-year option. A soldier is not normally permitted to leave until they have served for at least four years, and must give 12 months’ notice.

More information:  https://www.army.mod.uk/

Have a go yourself…https://armycadets.com/county/devon-acf/our-locations/

Navy

The Royal Navy is made up of five arms. The might of ships in the Surface Fleet, the aerial strength that is the Fleet Air Arm, the covert Submarine Service, the elite and amphibious Royal Marines, and the civilian fleet central to our effectiveness, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.

How to join…

The age range for joining the Royal Navy is 16 to 36, although that may vary for certain roles across the different branches. If you’re under the age of 18, you will need the consent of a parent or guardian. You can find out the age requirements for each job by using our Role Finder.

More information: https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk

Have a go yourself…https://www.sea-cadets.org/

RAF

The Royal Air Force (RAF) is the United Kingdom’s aerial warfare force. Formed towards the end of the First World War on 1 April 1918,[3] it is the oldest independent air force in the world! Today the Royal Air Force maintains an operational fleet of various types of aircraft, described by the RAF as being “leading-edge” in terms of technology. Although the RAF is the principal British air power arm, the Royal Navy‘s Fleet Air Arm and the British Army‘s Army Air Corps also deliver air power which is integrated into the maritime, littoral and land environments.

How to join…

To join the RAF you’ll need to meet certain criteria, like nationality, age, education and health. Some criteria apply to everyone joining the RAF; others only apply to specific roles. Take a look at the general RAF criteria below and select your preferred role to learn about some additional requirements you’ll need to meet.

More information: https://www.raf.mod.uk/recruitment/how-to-apply/eligibility-check

Have a go yourself…https://www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets/