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The British Army

Typical Day 

During the first 12 to 18 months, basic and trade training there wasn't what I would describe as a typical day. Probably the hardest but most enjoyable and rewarding part of your career, learn lots about yourself and develop yourself mentally and physically. 

After basic and trade training depending on the unit you are posted to a typical day can vary depending on the unit's role and the management you find yourself working under. Typical day at a busy unit with good management you will be kept busy and get hands on with your trade, go on exercise and deployments and obtain some excellent qualifications. Hard work but very rewarding. However, it is becoming more common to find yourself at a unit with no real purpose, poor management, ageing and broke equipment that needs urgent funding. A typical day at these units consists of sitting around waiting for pointless tasks not related to your trade. 

Management

The management you find yourself under can make or break your experience and career. At the better units some great managers that care about their people, but these are a minority. The way the Army recruits commissioned officers is outdated, majority from priviledged backgrounds with absolutely no life experience with no understanding of their soldiers and Junior NCOs . Too many senior NCOs at the end of their careers with a "not my problem" attitude due to having a couple of years remaining in service. The most frustrating aspect of this is the lack of accountability for those in management, and the fact they are aware that their inaction is negatiely affecting the workplace environment but nothing changes.

Workplace Culture

For an organisation that promotes itself as having excellent leaders it really needs to start putting into practice the core values of the British Army and not just as fancy slogans around the workplace. The above points about management and leadrship severely impact the morale of the workplace that impacts retention, above points have been expressed to management hundreds of times but no changes made. The working environment can be very negative due to poor management, lack of funding in equipment and forcing soldiers to work in garages with no heating during winter months and in accomodation with no hot water during winter months is unacceptable. Communication between management and junior ranks majority of the time is non existent.

Hardest part of the Job

Trying to keep yourself and those around you motivated at a unit with poor management and no purpose.

Most enjoyable part of the job

Finding yourself at a busy unit with opportunities to deploy on operations with motivated and inspirational managers and leaders (becoming less and less likely)

In summary, I wouldn't recommend trying to make a long term career out of the army anymore. For anyone thinking about joining I would recommend trying the reserves first beforehand. 




I initially enjoyed my Regular Phase 1 (basic training) in Jan 2018, challenging at times, strove through believing that the job role I'd chosen would offer a real sense of moral, leadership, a great work-life and unique experience within the military. 

Currently in a cap badge I massively hate, my mental health has gotten worse throughout the 1 year plus sense being at the regiment, no future career prospects sighted, not from the area (not ONE of my chosen preferences) and having an SPS team (also known as Det) that mostly likes playing soldier (when it suits them) and showboating their job role and rank to others they're attached to. They also like to generalize the entire Army and its roles believing that's what the whole Army's like. 

The job role (AGC SPS) is hardly explained when you get to regiment, more the mentality of "do it yourself". You have to normally juggle a Workbook, apprenticeship and administrating essentially the entire regiment with around ~20 SPS (some of which may work in RHQ, not in sqn offices). You're overworked, disrespected (unless you've got the Cpl or Sgt rank, you can talk back and challenge in most cases at least) and not fully understood by the guys you're attached to (can differ slightly depending on what regiment).

Just a few typical duties at regiment (what most Pte's to Cpl's would be doing):

- SSR Reports and recording Guard, 2IC, Gaurd Commander and 
  ROSm duties. 
- Running reports on Cosmic JPA. 
- Move and tracking on JPA.
- Doing Orders (this differs depending on how much the 
  SSM/CO wants to be in terms of laziness). 
- Checking paychecks (this one's literally not necessary a lot of the 
  time).  
- Other admin work (from issuing Chit and Lu to undertaking any jobs 
  SSM or CO wants doing).
- Duty Clerk (1 week long, with a phone on standby anytime).

Have had to wait just shy of a year just to receive a report (SJAR) for me to be able to transfer/go into another cap badge, I've felt, massively depressed, heartbroken and angry in terms of the change of cap badging after Phase 1 & 2 training (that's made less complex while in both of them). Could write much, much more but I'll keep it brief for now.      

Everything written is what I've observed, actually done and currently doing now. This is at my current regiment and location, this in turn can differ slightly or a lot depending on the location and regiment you're attached to. 

MOST IMPORTANT WORDS OF ADVICE I CAN GIVE: Choose your job role (whether enlisting for the first time or re-joining) very wisely, do plenty of research into typical locations and exactly what you'll do. If you're in any doubt about changing cap badge do it within the Phase 1 or 2 training area or just LEAVE the Army (yes you can actually leave before 4 years, it's called Early Service Leave, also known as being released from the services/services no longer required).

•	Gained specialist in-depth knowledge on subject matters including post conflict reconstruction  and stabilisation support, counter insurgency, civil military cooperation, terrorism, insurgency.
•	Key member of a stabilisation support unit providing specific intelligence and analysis on current and potential threats which may impact on stability and post conflict reconstruction activity across Africa including Somalia, Mali, Nigeria, Great Lakes region and MENA.
•	Intelligence analyst undertaking Joint Conflict Assessment to support HMG on Mali in advance of EU, UN and AU diplomatic activity.
•	Proven knowledge and experience of training and operating in a myriad of theatres including desert, urban and rural environments including Afghanistan.
•	Deployed to Afghanistan to provide Counter Improvised Explosive Device (CIED) search and support. Successfully identifying and arranging for the destruction of IEDs resulting in fewer casualties.
•	Team medic delegated with provided medical support to personnel whilst on patrol. In absence of CMT Administered pre-hospital treatment, care and stabilising casualties prior to evacuation to field Hospitals for specialist treatment.
•	Conducted numerous security and humanitarian patrols in and around Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Providing a deterrent to insurgents and interrupting the travel and supply routes.
•	Linguist gaining experience by providing intelligence support to interpreters in the use of icom whilst training Afghan National Security Force in Counter IED techniques, Medical training and basic infantry skills.
•	Conducting Intelligence exploitation patrols within Area of Operations in support of ANSF and ISAF objectives
•	Member of a guard force with the delegated powers to conduct all aspects of security including access control and searches. Liaising with emergency services in the event of an incident.
•	Provided force protection for local Jurga and OC visits to local community projects.
•	Conduct community support activities to help assist local community in humanitarian capacity. 
•	Provide recruitment activities for the Army Reserves. Devising an advertisement campaign to encourage new recruits into the Reserve Forces in advance of MoD’s Future Force 2020. 
•	Accountable for the provision of administrative support for recruitment process including running recruitment open evenings and days across North Wales.

I joined the Army in 1986 and my career was initially working on tracked vehicles which covered been able to work on each part of the tank covering engine, gearbox, tracks and gun kits within this roll I finished as a Crew mechanic. After this I then moved into the Motor Transport section where I gained the position of Details clerk after gaining experience of LGV 3, 2 and 1 operational duties, this also covered the use of bulk fuel equipment not only in camp but also on exercises and operational tours. My role as details clerk involved the organisation of 30+ vehicles and drivers so that tasks such as the movement of equipment or soldiers could be carried out to tight deadlines. This was done by working effectively as a team and offering mutual support in sometimes difficult situations. I had to show innovation by been able to select different routes for vehicles to move to their required location but had to also show respect for the soldiers I was giving orders to as they had to along with myself sometimes put others before themselves to complete tasks. Solidarity played an important part as we had to make major decisions in operational areas to get jobs completed.

 I was also the Petrol, Oils and Lubricant NCO which involved the ordering, supplying and accounting of a 1 million Deutsche Mark fuel account I was the sole accountant for this and had to ensure that fuel was accounted for so when audits took place a high standard of competence was shown to my superiors which showed that I was highly capable of running such an account.  The role involved ensuring the Regiment had a supply of fuel for exercises and operational tours and day to day running whilst based within Regimental Barracks.

I have covered this role on multiple operational tours and exercises which has included between 4 weeks to 6 months+ away from home on a regular basis. 

During my operational tours I was also part of the team that brought supplies back from the first Gulf War this roll involved been not only the ships armed escort but also a deck hand working with the engineers on board with tasks ranging from maintenance of engine systems and related equipment to the painting of the cargo deck covers. I completed three trips which ranged from 20 days to 24 days each voyage from the port of Al Jubail to Emden docks.

A normal day in the Army consists of cleaning weapons from small arms up to heavy machinery, physical training such as assault courses, 1.5 mile runs (best effort) and TAB's known as (tactical advance to battle) witch consists of carrying over 60kg of kit and running for 50% percent of the way however long the mile's may be, it's normally between 2 and 12 miles.

During my 3 years in the Armed Forces I learned a lot more than just how to become an effective solider on the front line. I matured rapidly and learned to put other's before myself. After leaving School with no qualification's I made the most of the Army's Education Wing and later on got Level 1 in Mathematics and Level 2 in English Reading And Writing, these are only some of the stuff i learned. I also did a first aid course (for deployment in Helmand), Learned how to speak fluent Arabic and also done a 3 week course on the ECM (electronic control measures) witch for confidential reason's I cant explain the full measures of the equipment.

The management of the British Army is fair, If you get asked to do a task of any sort you are expected to carry it out as quick and to the best of your ability as possible like any job. If you fail to meet the standards of the higher ranks i.e management then you will be disciplined appropriately.

When your in the Army everyone is like family, you treat them as they were for as little or as long as you have known them that's why we all have a unique bond. After all they are the lads you could have to go to war with and you need to have a bond to trust one and other because you never know who will have your back. You meet real friend's for life in the Army.

My opinion of the hardest part of the Army is learning to deal with the home sickness. For the first 6 week's its hard as a 16 year old leaving family and friends behind and the longer you go on it doesn't get any easier.

The best part of the job is being able to have responsibility and being treated fairly as an adult at such a young age, I as a Infantry Soldier got to experience some great things such as meet people from all around the world including Afghanistan, America and Canada. I also got to experience places i thought i would never go to such as Brecon and Kenya, overall it was the best decision of my life.

A typical day at work in the British Army can vary widely depending on your role and the unit you are assigned to. However, some common activities might include physical training, weapon maintenance and drills, mission briefings and debriefings, field exercises, and various administrative tasks.

In terms of what you can learn in the British Army, there are numerous opportunities for personal and professional development. You can learn valuable skills such as leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making, and technical skills related to your specific role.

Management in the British Army is typically hierarchical, with clear chains of command and a strong emphasis on discipline and following orders. Effective leadership is crucial in the military, and officers are responsible for managing and leading their subordinates to accomplish missions and tasks.

Workplace culture in the British Army is often characterized by a strong sense of camaraderie, duty, and professionalism. Teamwork and mutual support are highly valued, and there is a strong emphasis on upholding the values and traditions of the military.

The hardest part of the job in the British Army can vary depending on individual experiences, but common challenges may include long periods of separation from family and loved ones, demanding physical and mental requirements, exposure to danger in combat zones, and the need to adapt quickly to changing and challenging environments.

The most enjoyable part of the job for many in the British Army is the sense of purpose and fulfillment that comes from serving your country, the opportunity to work with a diverse group of people from different backgrounds, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from overcoming challenges and achieving goals together as a team.

It's important to note that individual experiences in the British Army can vary widely, and what one person finds challenging or enjoyable may be different for another.



•Accountable for the daily running of the bar and responsible for handling money and weekly stock checks.
•Responsible for ensuring that any problems that were brought to his attention were rectified in a timely manner.
•Able to liaise with 3rd party companies to ensure the smooth running of the living accommodation.
•Organises functions for the mess members where he would have to liaise with Mess committees to find out what kind of functions the members would like and then delegate jobs to the junior staff also he would have to ensure that there would be enough stock and staff for the function requested.

Worked as a member of an Observation Post three man team. Operating Electro - Mechanical, and mechanical equipment.

•Maintained vehicles to a high standard.
•Drove multiple vehicles requiring various types of licences.
•Handled and transported dangerous cargo.
•Worked with fuel tankers also with alternative vehicles.
•Able to listen to commands and follow orders.
•As a reliable member of the MT department he would have to order equipment for a wide variant of vehicles to get them to a serviceable state.
•Monitor the vehicles for daily task worthiness.
•Planning and organising routes to either camps or trips out or for Battery or Regimental exercises.
•Transport High explosives Rounds using the Army's main all terrain Heavy Goods Vehicle truck (DROPS).

•Can work as a large team but also a small team, can also handle high explosives, carries out routine servicing and maintenance.
•Transmits and receives voice and data messages
•Carry out instructions given by the gun line section commander so he could be in charge of 20 people then, relaying information back to colleagues and delegating jobs
•Planning and co- ordination of the movement of individual vehicles or convoy.
•Proven communicator at all levels speaking to the most senior officer or the newest gunner
•Versatile and learns new tasks/skills also adapts them 2 new situations when they arise

Commissioning from Sandhurst is no easy feat and you have to really want to be there and do it mentally - the physical part of training is relatively straightforward.

The role(s) offered on commissioning can be wide ranging and varied, with lots of responsibility early on and a real opportunity to develop professionally. You will get the chance to travel and be involved in some interesting, pressured and dynamic scenarios. There is also the opportunity to take part in a lot of sport and AT (Adventurous Training) if you are lucky enough. You will have time each day to train in addition to daily PT and some people really do focus on their particular sport to a high level.

One does not join the army for the pay cheque, but with subsidised accommodation and meal, in addition to the pace of life, you can very well save some money and live relatively comfortably.

Progress can be frustrating as the needs of the army come first, so you may end up doing roles that you do not necessarily want to do or enjoy and this can be difficult for many people. This can feed in to the management style as well which can be rigid and inflexible at times with a tendency toward an (archaic) hierarchy and an atmosphere of rank outweighs ability. This is depended on the regiment you are in however, but I have seen scenarios where senior managers are not included or involved with more junior stakeholders due to rank.

The needs of the army come first and this extends to your personal life, so expect to not be able to attend every family event/wedding/birthday/christening/funeral that you want to. The hours can be long and the job can be physically and mentally exhausting.

That said, this is an excellent opportunity and I would recommend to do this even for a short while as the positives outweigh the negatives.

A typical day at work would involve waking up at half 5, getting showered, shaved and dressed perfectly. After breakfast it could be anything from rifle lesson, target practice, physical fitness or a written lesson. Usually we'd get all of them done in the day. When it came to night we were given free time, I used it to polish my boots and iron my uniform every night. I learnt a lot about myself as well as what the army taught me. I learnt how to survive in the forest and how to build my own shelter, how to cook my own food and how to keep myself clean, how to keep my rifle clean in the field and how to keep it clean when not in the field, how to judge distance etc. 

My management was ran by 1 captain, 1 sergeant and 4 corporals, and they made up the training team. There were pretty rough but knew what they were doing when it came to living in the field.

My co-workers (the other trainees) were all alright to start with but as it got harder, more people started becoming angry and it quickly became harder for everyone because bullies emerged in the group, they would pick on the ones who missed home or didn't want to be in the army at all.

The hardest part of the job was preparing and getting to the forest where we had to live for that exercise, there was so much to pack in my bags, carry all that kit for miles in the sun and when we finally got there we had to learn all about how to survive in the forest without a break, it was very tiring and confusing.

The most enjoyable part of the job was actually the weekend leaves, because once you've been through the hardest parts of training, and you go home for the first time, you look at everything differently, you appreciate what you've got in civilian life even more and your family become even more important to you.

A great chance to grow up!! learn skills that are not  transferable into ”civilian” life, it’s nearly impossible to get fired and it’s shares the same repetition of daily work to that of a pie factory (make case, fill pie, close pie and cook pie). And if that hasn’t got your palms sweating then catch this, I have never seen an organisation create so much unnecessary work for its self, that’s not even the best part once the work has been created they will then have the work carried out by an inadequate number of personnel. Once the task in hand has not been complete stand by for punishment,, once you’ve had your ears chewed off and an extra work load imposed as penance you’ll then be told to work late until the task is complete sometime working late into
The night, and what for might you ask?? To cover up the fact your department is struggling due to undermanning and cement in place  your line managers new promotion, the same one he crapshoot all over you for just two days ago. In a whole the army is a huge facade, advertisements and promotions show it as the answer to the prayers of people lacking direction or self confidence, when it’s just going to make it worse. The British army needs huge reform internally if its to match this ever changing world as it has remained unchanged since early 2000. Defence budgets could be better spent in other areas and the army should be dragged down to a defence force only to defend the United Kingdom against attack, as Brexit and the current world situation have already shown us were on our own and should stand behind no country other then this one the days of fighting in deserts for an American gain are over our troops are worth more then oil. 


Top Job Titles	Average salary
Soldier 18 salaries reported	£31,202 per year
Captain 22 salaries reported	£52,622 per year
Army officer 9 salaries reported	£36,044 per year
Signals officer 5 salaries reported	£88.37 per day
Registered nurse 72 salaries reported	£30,367 per year

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