Army

The Army section at Merchant Taylors’ welcomes all cadets of all abilities and backgrounds. With an established history dating back to the 1900’s, cadet training is geared to the development of an individual’s powers of leadership, self reliance whilst, at the same time, encouraging teamwork and maturity.

When you join the Army section you will be part of B Company and will be split down into platoons and sections. There you will participate in a basic training syllabus and work towards the Army Proficiency Certificate (APC):

• Drill, Turnout and Military Knowledge
• Skill at arms and Shooting
• Map and Compass
• Field Craft
• First Aid
• Physical Recreation

During the year, you will be tested on the skills you have learnt at compulsory field day events and an annual camp. This provides the instructors an opportunity to see you using and understanding your skills and provides you with an opportunity to participate in adventurous training such as kayaking, rock climbing and orienteering.

Once you have been awarded your honorary cap badge you will join A Company where your skills will be honed and developed to a more advanced level as you work towards your APC. It is crucial you are able take in all that is taught as the instructor does not have time to revise skills previously covered.

Mud and living in the outdoors is part and parcel of the Army section. It is important for you to understand from the start there will be times when you will be muddy and tired. This is a training method used to test you both mentally and physically. We actively seek the adventurous and robust spirit you posses, helping you to adapt to a multitude of challenging environments.

External courses will be made available to you and it is imperative you take these opportunities as they will not only benefit you but also allow you to share your new found knowledge with the rest of the section.

As you progresses through the years you will be given greater responsibility and the onus will be on you to become more proactive in your thinking and ability. Those who show exceptional ability will be promoted as Non Commissioned Officers (NCOs), and at this level you will learn instructional and management techniques. However, it must be stressed that promotion is purely based on ability rather than seniority.