MORE TOP RECRUITS AT ARMY TRAINING UNIT (NI)

Phase 1 Bravo of Army Reserves training was held at Ballykinler Training Camp (BTC) during April 2018. A total of two Phase Bravo courses are held in BTC, Northern Ireland annually, each lasting sixteen days. Recruits can enhance and develop new and existing skills, such as Shooting, Physical Fitness, Field Craft, Battlefield Casualty Drills and team work to mention a few of the training objectives.

As usual the recruits were welcomed by our beautiful Irish weather, but that wasn’t to deter such a varied platoon of ages, gender and professional skills from all parts of the UK. Another welcoming sight were the instructors who are also reservists. They give up their spare time to train recruits in the Common Military Syllabus, applying their extensive experience to develop interest in the subject matter. 

Recruits are a valued commodity to the instructors at ATU (NI) and we are trained and competent at getting the most out of the individual. Some recruits haven’t had the educational opportunities in life to date, however, with instruction we develop individual strengths using varied teaching methods. At our core are the Values and Standards of the British Army and recruits are introduced to a team approach to soldiering, “maximal effort, minimal of fuss”.

Interestingly it never ceases to amaze instructors what some of the recruits do for a living from chefs, to police officers, doctors, nurses, scientists and students. All are making their individual contribution to society but in the Army Reserve they become part of a team that can bring these essential specialist skills to bear.

Northern Ireland has always been synonymous with providing quality soldiers who are proud to serve in the British Armed Forces and at its core is a local effective training establishment where the highest standard and bearing is expected at all times. 

However, it’s not just all work and no play for the Permanent Staff. At the time of writing ATU (NI) staff have just departed on a Battle Field Study to Monte – Cassino, Italy.  

Army Training Unit (Northern Ireland) remains a great place to work with a constant stream of willing and able reserve recruits who go on to be successful Army reservists with all units based in Northern Ireland and on occasion in GB as well.