An Army graduation parade has marked the completion of intensive training for Ilkeston soldier, Oscar Gregson.
The 17 year old was among hundreds of soldiers who celebrated the completion of their Phase One training with a pass off parade at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.
The prestigious parade marks the culmination of many months of intensive training, nurturing and education that is tailored exclusively to 17 and 18 year old soldiers.
The military training syllabus teaches the Junior Soldiers the basics of soldiering, from how to look after their kit to how to safely handle and fire an assault rifle. They learn fieldcraft and take part in military exercises.
The training also furthers their education as well. English is prioritised, followed by Maths and Information Communication Technology /BTEC. All Junior Soldiers with any additional learning needs are fully supported.
Oscar started at the Army Foundation College after leaving St John Houghton school, Kirk Hallam.
“Ever since I was a kid, it’s always been the Army - I don’t know where the idea came from,” he said. “I was going to join the infantry, but my mum suggested I look at all the options before I made my final decision. Then I read about the role of Tank crewman and knew that would be perfect for me.”
The Royal Tank Regiment (RTR) is the oldest tank unit in the world and was formed in 1916. Its arsenal includes the Challenger 2 battle tank, the Scimitar reconnaissance vehicle, and the Spartan armoured personnel carrier.
Oscar continued: “It’s been a long training course but worth it. You arrive as a civilian and it seems that the staff are hard on you. Now, at the end of the course, they have become like a second family.
“It’s rewarding you’ve put the work in, it’s all completed and come out good. The Corporals say they now see us as soldiers which is a real high.”
Oscar will now go to the Royal Armoured Corps in Bovington, Dorset to complete his Phase Two training.
He said: “I could be qualified to drive a tank before I learn to drive a car - it all depends on which driving courses I do and when. That would be something to tell my mates.
“I’ve matured, and I am a lot more disciplined. I got into trouble a bit at school but people have noticed the change in me.
“Overall, the best part for me was meeting new mates. I know everyone says it but for me it’s true.
You arrive not knowing anyone, but they become like your new family and they help turn any bad day into a good day.”
The College, based at Uniacke Barracks in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, has two intakes a year in March and September and runs two types of courses.
A 49-week course (including eight weeks holiday) is aimed at those joining the infantry, Royal Armoured Corps/Household Cavalry, Royal Artillery, and some Royal Logistic Corps roles.
While those Junior Soldiers joining regiments and corps with a longer Phase 2 training undergo a 23-week course at the college (including three weeks holiday). These include soldiers destined for the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Royal Engineers, Royal Signals, Adjutant General’s Corps, Royal Army Medical Corps, Army Air Corps, and some Royal Logistic Corps roles.
The Junior Soldiers also work on their physical fitness, leadership, and team skills as part of the College’s personal and team package.They undertake a number of adventure training activities and are also given the opportunity to sample a wide variety of sports promoting fitness and agility. Soldiers have the opportunity to gain their Duke of Edinburgh Award, learn languages and musical instruments, as well as participating in sports teams.