TA Phase1 Training

TA Phase 1 Training

After you have passed TA Recruit Selection and been attested by your new unit you will be booked to attend Phase 1 training (sometimes called recruit or basic training).

Territorial Army Phase 1 Training (Soldiers) is the first and most important step that will help transform a civilian into a soldier. Common Military Syllabus (Territorial Army) 2009 (CMS(TA)09) is common to all Arms and Services.

TA Phase 1 Training (Soldiers) provides the foundation on which a Soldier under Training (SuT) can develop and progress in order to carry out local protection tasks in any environment.

The emphasis in CMS(TA)09 has deliberately been placed on fitness, shooting, the Core Values and fieldcraft. It is designed to facilitate the transition from civilian to soldier and allow TA soldiers to justifiably and proudly take their place alongside their Regular peers in the Field Army, including on Operations; with the appropriate skills and ethos. It will also prepare each of them for Phase 2 Training.

The CMS(TA)09 is a generic Phase 1 course which comprises a 6 weekend modular training course (Trained Soldier’s Course (Alpha) (TSC(A)) which may alternatively be delivered over a 10 day period), a 3 weekend Infantry module (TSC(Inf)) and for Other Arms, a 2 week residential course, Trained Soldier’s Course (Bravo) (TSC(B)).

The combination of TSC(A) and (B) develops the Territorial Soldier’s individual and team soldiering skills in a progressive manner, preparing them to take up their place in today’s Territorial Army.

Following TSC(Inf) the Infantry soldier will go on to Phase 2 Training and attend the Combat Infantryman’s Course (TA) (CIC (TA)) which takes place over 2 weeks at the Infantry Training Centre (Catterick) (ITC(C)).

Following TSC(B) the non-Infantry soldier will go on to Phase 2 training specific to their chosen Arm and trade.

Trained Soldier's Course (Alpha) (TSC(A))

TSC (A) will consist of 6 weekends of training conducted by Regional Training Centres (RTCs) and authorised training deliverers and will follow on from the Recruit Selection Weekend. Except during periods of leave the weekends run approximately every fortnight. The dates will be available from unit training staff and will be specific to the RTC that you will attend.

All Soldiers under Training (SuTs) are to attend this training within their Administrative Command (ADMINCOM) areas. However, units may direct their SuT to the most geographically convenient RTC, if necessary across regional boundaries, providing this has been planned and agreed in advance by the recipient Brigade (Bde) and RTC.

RTC are authorised to remove the following Training Objectives (TOs) from the course which must subsequently be tested once the soldier reaches his/her unit:

Endurance Trg TOs 3 & 4

Strength & Conditioning TOs 3 & 4

Strength & Conditioning TOs 6 & 7

On completion of TSC(A) Infantry soldiers progress onto TSC(Inf) which is a further three weekends at the RTC (details below), non-Infantry soldiers progress onto TSC(B) which is a two week course (details below).

• Input Standards

This SuT must have achieved a pass at the Recruit Selection Weekend.

• Course Loading

TSC(A) is loaded by Training Providers (RTCs) under local arrangements, usually by fax/email to the relevant Recruit Training Wing Warrant Officer (RTW WO).

• Training Programme

Below is an example of the activities that will be undertaken during TSC(A) which will vary slightly between RTCs:

Weekend 1

Opening Address

Health and Safety Brief

Fieldcraft - How to prepare and pack CEFO

Drill - Carry out foot drill at the halt, Dressing in three ranks, Open and Close, Order at the halt, Marching and Halting

Physical Training (PT) - Introduction to the gym, fitness assessment, introduction to Endurance training

Skill At Arms (SAA) - Rifle Lessons 1-3

Values & Standards (V&S) - Introduction the Values and Standards of the British Army

Security - The nature of the threat, the alert system

Weekend 2

Drill - Turnings at the halt

SAA - Rifle lessons 4-5, Practice, Marksmanship principles

Health & Hygiene - Personal hygiene and footcare, healthy lifestyle

PT - Strength and conditioning, Endurance training

Security - Security of weapons and equipment

Exercise ICEBREAKER - A night out in the field which will include: How to construct a two man shelter, how to maintain weapons and equipment in the field, personal hygiene in the field and how to cook and feed in the field

Weekend 3

Drill - Dismissing and falling out, Saluting at the halt

SAA - Rifle lessons 6-7, Practice

Health & Hygiene - PT Zones, Heat Injury, Cold Injury

Equality & Diversity (E&D) - MOD Equality and Diversity policy

V&S - Strength for service, Courage, Discipline

Military Law - Introduction to Military Law

Weekend 4

Drill - Foot drill at the halt, Turnings on the March, Wheel Left/Right

SAA - Rifle lessons 9-10, Practice, Weapon Handling Test (WHT) (part of MATT 1)

V&S - Integrity, Respect for Others

Health & Hygiene - Injury prevention

PT - Strength and conditioning, Endurance

Fieldcraft - How to prepare and pack CEMO

Weekend 5

SAA - Grouping theory, Live Firing 1, DCCT grouping

Military Law - Offences, AGAI 67

Health & Hygiene - Nutrition, Strsss management

V&S - Loyalty, Selfless commitment, Ethics, MATT 6 tests

PT - Strength and conditioning

Survive, Evade, Resist, Extract (SERE) - MATT 8 presentation

Weekend 6

Exercise FIRST NIGHT - A night out in the field which will include: Rifle practice, Why things are seen, Camouflage, Harbour drills, Sentry duty, Night observation, Moving with and without weapons, Introduction to pyrotechnics

PT - Endurance assessment and RMTs

Course Debrief

• Output Standards

SuT are to complete all lessons within the course syllabus and pass the following tests:

a. Weapon Handling Test (WHT).

b. 3 x Representative Military Tasks (RMTs).

SuT who fail the WHT or the Loaded March must retake the tests at the RTC. SuT need only attend the relevant OR revision weekend.

On successful completion of TSC (A), each SuT will be issued with a certificate which will be signed by the Commanding Officer (CO) of the RTC. The Certificate will be valid for 6 months, within which time the SuT must attend TSC(B).

In the event that the 6 month limit is exceeded, the SuT must re-attend a complete TSC(A) from the start and a new certificate of proficiency must be issued by the RTC CO, prior to attendance on TSC(B).

On completion of TSC(A) the Unit is to forward a complete copy of the SuT Report Book, containing the TSC(A) pass Certificate, Certificates of any subsequent refresher training and the Fit to Attend Training Certificate to the TSC(B) Training Provider at least 2 weeks prior to the course start date.

• Refresher Training

In the interval between the end of TSC(A)/TSC(Inf) and the start of TSC(B)/CIC (TA), units are to ensure that SuT are kept up to date in the skills acquired on TSC(A)/TSC(Inf). In the event that more than 8 weeks elapse between the end of TSC(A)/TSC (Inf) and the start of TSC(B)/CIC(TA), the SuT must attend and pass refresher training at the RTC.

If refresher training has not been succesfully completed during the 8 weeks prior to the start of TSC(B)/CIC(TA), unless there are extenuating circumstances authorised by SO1 TA the SuT in question will be RTU.

In summary, refresher training must be conducted and tests undertaken passed within the 8-week period prior to attending TSC(B)/CIC(TA).

Refresher training is not required before the 8 week period.

If TSC(B)/CIC(TA) has not been attended within 6 months, the SuT must re-attend TSC(A)/TSC(Inf) from the start.

TSC(A) - Tips and Advice

Where can I find out the course dates?

Ask your recruiting staff or your SPSI, they will have access to them and will be able to provide you a copy. If possible phone to let them know in advance rather than knocking on their door on a Drill Night as they will have other things to be getting on with.

Which RTC will I go to?

The Regional Training Centre (RTC) where you will complete your training will usually be determined by which Regional Brigade (Bde) your unit belongs to although your unit can arrange for you to complete TSC(A) at a different RTC if necessary e.g. 4 PARA recruit from all areas of the UK, your unit might be in Leeds under 15 Bde but you might live in Scotland in which case RTC Scotland would be more appropriate. If you intend to join the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) you will find they run their own Phase 1 training and you should speak to them directly to find out the details. If you are joining a National TA unit rather than a regional TA unit, TSC(A) is conducted as a 10 day course at 5 Trg Regt RLC in Grantham.

The locations of the RTCs are as follows:

2nd Division (2 Div)

Scotland - RTC (Scotland) - Redford Cavalry Barracks, EDINBURGH

North East - 15 (North East) Bde RTC - Queen Elizabeth Barracks, YORK

North West - 42 (North West) Bde RTC - Altcar Training Camp, LIVERPOOL

Northern Ireland - 38 (Irish) Bde RTC - Abercorn Barracks, BALLYKINLER

4th Division (4 Div)

South and South East - 2 (South East) Bde RTC - Seely House, ALDERSHOT

Wessex - 43 (Wessex) Bde RTC - Wyvern Barracks, EXETER

5th Division (5 Div)

East - 49 (East) Brigade RTC - Waterbeach Barracks, WATERBEACH

West Midlands - 143 (West Midlands) Bde RTC - Parsons Barracks, TELFORD

Wales - RTC (Wales) - Maindy Barracks, CARDIFF

HQ London District (LONDIST)

London - RTC (LONDIST) - Yeomanry House, BLOOMSBURY

When will I get my Joining Instructions (JIs)?

Once your place on the course has been confirmed by the RTC. The JIs will be different depending on which RTC you are going to.

What happens if I miss a weekend?

If an SuT is unable to succesfully complete or fails to attend any weekend of training, the following guidance is to be applied:

a. Regardless of the stage of training, if the SuT does not return to Ph1 Training within a 6 month period, he/she is to restart from weekend 1.

b. If an SuT falls out of Ph1 Training before completion of weekend 3, he/she is to restart from weekend 1.

c. If any SuT completes weekend 3 or beyond and returns to Ph1 Training within 8 weeks, he/she may continue training at the next sequential weekend of training.

i.e. If the SuT completes weekend 3 and returns within an 8 week period, they can recommence training at weekend 4 etc..

d. If any SuT completes weekend 3 or beyond and returns to Ph1 Training after an 8 week period, he/she must re-attend the last completed weekend of training.

i.e. If the SuT completes weekend 4 and returns to training after an 8 week period, they can recommence training, however, must re-attend weekend 4 before continuing to weekend 5.

I'm an Infantry soldier when can I do my Trade/Special to Arm Training (Phase 2)?

On completion of TSC(Inf) you will attend CIC(TA) which is the Infantry Phase 2 Special to Arm Training and includes some of the skills taught during Phase 1 training, developing them to an advanced standard. Revised Phase 1 Training has been designed to eliminate duplicate training for Infantry SuT. Training in TSC(A) is common to all, enabling optimum use of resources and the provision of training excellence for the whole of the TA. The Infantry SuT then undertake a further 3 weekends of TSC(Inf) as a different programme from other Arms in preparation for the CIC(TA). See the TSC(Inf) section for links to Phase 2 training.

I'm a non-Infantry soldier, when can I do my Trade/Special To Arm Training (Phase 2)?

Phase 2 (Special to Arm/Trade) Training may be started once you have successfully completed TSC(A). However, the requirement to attend TSC(B) remains, and must be completed in your first year. A soldier must not attend a unit Camp or a Special to Arm Course in preference to attending TSC(B).

i.e. Where you are unable to secure a place on TSC(B) you are allowed to complete your Phase 2 training first but this will be the exception rather than the rule and TSC(B) must still be completed in your first year. See the TSC(B) section for links to Phase 2 training.

What kit do I need?

Your unit should provide you with a kit list before you go to weekend 2, ideally you should have been measured for your kit during the recruitment process and your kit will be ready for collection from the SQMS. A suggested list is as follows:

CLOTHING

1 x Bag Kit/Large civilian bag (Clearly marked with personal details), 1 x Belt working plastic/webbed, 1 x Regt head dress, 1 x Tracksuit, 1 x Pair of Boots Cbt High (Military Issued), 1 x Pair of Drawers Cold Weather OD, 1 x Pair of Gloves (Military Issued), 1 x Head over, 1 x Pair of Insoles, 1 x Liner Jacket Cold Weather/Mil Fleece, 2 x Combat 95 (Shirt & trousers), 1 x Smock Cbt Temperate DPM, 1 x Smock waterproof DPM, 2 x Pairs of Sock Combat OD, 1 x Pair of Trousers waterproof DPM, 2 x Vest OD cold weather, 1 x Shaving stick/brush/shave gel.

PT KIT

2 x Shorts PT ( Dark in Colour), 2 x Pairs of Sports socks, 1 x Tracksuit, 1 x Trainers (Pair), 2 x Vest PT.

WASH KIT

1 x Towel, 1 x Razor, 1 x Sets Spare Blades/Razors, 1 x Soap, 1 x Toothbrush, 1 x Toothpaste, 1 x Shampoo/Conditioner .

MISC

1 x KFS & mug, 1 x Penknife (under 3”), 2 x Bungees, 5 x Coat hangers, 1 x Helmet Mk 6 & cover, 2 x Plastic bags large, 1 x Respirator + Haversack, String (Green) 30M, 3 x Bin liners heavy duty, 1 x Pair of Ear defenders, 1 x Padlock & keys, 1 x Iron, 1 x Boot cleaning kit, 1 x ID card or Chit in Lieu, 1 x Foot powder, 1 x Alarm clock, 1 x Pair of Spare laces, Smart civilian clothing, 1 x Pair of Ear Defenders, 1 x House wife kit, 1 x Notebook & pencil, 1 x Torch (with red filter), 2 x Batteries (for torch).

Can I wear my own boots?

Unless you have authority from a military doctor issued when there is a medical reason requiring specialist boots then the answer is NO, if you do have a genuine medical reason then yes: see here. During Phase 1 training you will be expected to wear issue boots. You should collect yours from the stores as soon as possible after attestation and wear them regularly to break them in before you go on TSC (A).

Can I fast-track through TSC(A)?

Yes. If you have the time available to do so TSC(A) can be completed as a 10 day course instead of 6 weekends, your recruiting staff or SPSI should have the details.

What are MATTs?

Military Annual Training Tests (MATTs) are a series of annual tests that every TA soldier is required to complete in order to qualify for his/her tax free bounty. They are tested at 3 different levels (funnily enough Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3) and generally speaking you will be tested at Level 2 every year unless you are deploying on Operations (in which case you will be trained to Level 1) or the Chain of Command (CoC) has reduced the requirement to Level 3. There are different tests within each MATT and the Level you are training at determines which of the tests you will take for each MATT you are required to complete (at Level 3 for example MATTs 4 & 5 are not tested at all).

The subjects covered in each MATT are as follows:

MATT 1 - Personal Weapon Training

MATT 2 - Fitness

MATT 3 - Battlefield Casualty Drills (BCD)

MATT 4 - Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN)

MATT 5 - Navigation

MATT 6 - Values and Standards (V&S)

MATT 7 - Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC)

MATT 8 - Survive, Evade, Resist, Extract (SERE)

MATT 9 - Counter Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED)

When you will be tested on each of these will vary depending on where you complete your Phase 1 training but the Training Programmes on this page will give you some guidance. On completion of Phase 1 you willl have been tested at some point in all MATTs with the exception of MATT 2 - Fitness (though you will have been constantly improving your fitness throughout Phase 1 and will have been assessed as you progress the formal MATT 2 tests are not completed during Phase 1)

Once you have completed Phase 1 you will be tested throughout the year by your unit in line with their own training plan.

I want to become an Officer, do I have to do Phase 1?

If you haven't joined your unit from a University Officer Training Corps (UOTC) and are interested in becoming an Officer you should make this known to your unit as soon as possible after attestation and ask for an interview to be arranged with your Officer Commanding (OC). Generally speaking if you have joined with no previous military experience you will complete Phase 1 training the same as any other soldier would but on completion of Phase 1 (TSC(A) and TSC(B) for non-Infantry or TSC(A) and TSC(Inf) for Infantry) rather than going onto your Special To Arm course or CIC(TA) you would then progress onto Module 2 of your Officer training at your RTC (by completing Phase 1 you are exempt Module 1 of Officer training).

In order to be accepted onto Module 2 you must have passed both the Army Officer Selection Board (AOSB) Briefing and Main Board (see here for details: [1]). You can do this whilst you are still in Phase 1 (now you see the need to let your unit know as soon as possible that you wish to become an Officer) and ideally the application for you to attend the Briefing should be made by your unit whilst you are still on TSC(A).

I'm ex-Regular/ex-TA, do I have to do Phase 1?

It is entirely dependant upon how long ago you left the Regulars. It is best to check the current regulations with your unit whilst you are still going through the recruitment process to be entirely certain. Generally speaking if you have been out less than 6 years you can return to service in the same trade and at the same Class (e.g. Inf Soldier Class 1) without further training. You will need to provide a copy of your AFB108 (Red Book) or certificate of discharge to your new unit as evidence of your qualifications. If you have lost this you can apply to APC for a copy of your certificate of discharge and AFB200 by writing to MS Disclosures, MP520, APC, Kentigern House, 65 Brown Street, GLASGOW, G2 8EX. If you have been out less than 3 years and were a WO or NCO prior to your discharge you are also eligible to retain your rank provided a suitable vacancy exists at your new unit.

Trained Soldier's Course (Infantry) (TSC(Inf))

For Infantry Soldiers only TSC (Inf) will follow on from TSC (A), and will consist of a further 3 weekends.

Delivery of TSC (Inf) is to be conducted by RTCs. However, if RTCs are unable to deliver training, Infantry Battalions may, under RTC direction, deliver TSC (Inf) as part of regional collective arrangements if authorised to do so by Commander Initial Training Group (Comd ITG).

Due to time contraints, the infantry SuT will not normally have completed all elements of Phase 1 Training (Soldiers) as detailed in the course syllabus. Training Objectives (TOs) (namely Endurance Training TOs 9-12) that have been authorised to be omitted are to be taught during Workplace Training.

On completion of TSC(Inf) the Infantry soldier will progress onto Special To Arm/Trade training (Phase 2), for all Infantry soldiers this is the two week Combat Infantryman's Course (Territorial Army) (CIC(TA)) held throughout the year at the Infantry Training Centre (Catterick) (ITC(C)).

• Input Standards

Criteria that must be completed before training can commence:

a. Weapon Handling Test (WHT).

b. 3 x Representative Military Tasks (RMTs).

This represents the output standard of TSC(A).

• Course Loading

TSC(A) is loaded by Training Providers (RTCs) under local arrangements, usually by fax/email to the relevant Recruit Training Wing Warrant Officer (RTW WO).

• Training Programme

Below is an example of the activities that will be undertaken during TSC(Inf) which will vary slightly between RTCs:

Weekend 7

SAA - Live Firing 2-4

PT - Endurance Assessment and RMT

CBRN - MATT 4 testing

Weekend 8

SAA - Live Firing 5-6

Battlefield Casualty Drills (BCD) - BCD Drills, MATT 3 testing

PT - Endurance training

Weekend 9

Map Reading - Identify locations and map symbols, Using Grid references, Using relief features

PT - 4 mile loaded march

Exercise HALF WAY - A night out in the field to include: Judging distances, Using range cards, Reaction to signals and verbal commands, Indicating tragets, Tactical use of ground, Harbour extraction

Course debrief and CIC(TA) briefing

• Output Standards

SuT are to complete all lessons within the course syllabus and pass the following tests:

a SAA MATT 1 Level 2.

b. BCD MATT 3 Level 2 (minus Adult Basic Life Support which is covered at CIC (TA)).

c. CBRN MATT 4 Level 2.

d. 3 x Representative Military Tasks (RMTs).

• Phase 2 Training

Phase 2 training, also known as Trade training or Special To Arm (STA) training for the TA Infantry is the same regardless of which capbadge you are joining. All TA Infantry will go on to complete the combat Infantryman's Course (Territorial Army) (CIC(TA)) at the Infantry Training Centre (Catterick) (ITC(C)). The link below will direct you to more information about what to expect in Phase 2 training:

Phase 2

If you are joining 4 PARA you should also see their page here for details of their training.

TSC(Inf) - Tips and Advice

TSC (Inf) Tips and Advice is under construction

What kit do I need?

Kit list to follow.

Can I wear my own boots?

Unless you have authority from a military doctor issued when there is a medical reason requiring specialist boots then the answer is NO, if you have a genuine medical reason then yes: see here. During Phase 1 training you will be expected to wear issue boots. You should collect yours from the stores as soon as possible after attestation and wear them regularly to break them in before you go on TSC (A).

Can I fast-track through TSC(Inf)?

Yes. If you have the time available and can commit to it you may be able to complete TSC(A), TSC(Inf) and CIC(TA) i.e. all your Phase 1 and Phase 2 training in one go by taking part in Exercise SUMMER CHALLENGE. This exercise runs once a year and details are available from your SPSI (alternatively ask for the details in the just TA forum on arrse). If your unit is based in Northern Ireland you should ask for the details of Exercise SHAMROCK CHALLENGE.

Trained Soldier's Course (Bravo) (TSC(B))

TSC(B) will consist of 2 weeks of training conducted at Army Training Centre (Pirbright) (ATC(P)) and authorised training deliverers (namely 5 Trg Regt RLC at Grantham and HQ 38 Bde RTC in Northern Ireland) for non-Infantry SuT.

The SuT is required to pass an entrance test in weapon handling. Training will be progressive from TSC (A) and will deepen SuT shooting skills, introduce Battlefield Casualty Drills (BCD), Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN), fieldcraft, and navigation.

The course will culminate in a pass off parade, which marks the successful completion of CMS(TA)09 training. Course loading for both ATC(P) and 5 Trg Regt RLC will be controlled by HQ Recruiting Group (RG) via TRHJ, and SuT may be directed to any available location.

On completion of TSC(B) the non-Infantry soldier will go on to complete Special To Arm/Trade training (Phase 2) which is specific to their own Arm.

Input Standards

Criteria that must be completed before training can commence:

a. Possession of the TSC (A) pass certificate signed by the CO of the RTC. (RTU if no Certificate).

b. Possession of a completed Joining Instruction (JI) annex “Fit to Train” certificate, detailing PULHHEEMS. (RTU if no Certificate).

c. WHT. This test must be completed prior to the start of Live Firing and should be in date from completion of TSC(A). If it has not been passed before Live Firing commences, the SuT is not safe to train and must be RTU.

d. Fitness. There will not be a physical fitness entry test. SuT who do not complete the 3 Mile Endurance Assessment in 45 minutes on the first day of TSC(B) are to be advised of the standard they must achieve to pass the fitness element and allowed to continue. However, SuTs may be deemed ‘not fit to train' by the Physical Training Staff. If ratified by the course OC, the SuT is to be advised of his/her fitness shortcomings and could be RTU.

Course Loading

TSC(B) is loaded by the SuT's unit via TRHJ.

Training Programme

Below is an example training programme which may differ slightly between Training Providers:

Day 1

Arrival admin and Opening Address

Drill - Turning on the march

PT - RMTs and Endurance assessment

BCD - Master Drill and Drill 1

Map Reading - Identifying locations and grids

SAA - WHT (part of MATT 1 test)

Day 2

Introduction to Joint Personnel Administration (JPA)

Drill - Foot drill

Law of Armed Conflict - MATT 7 test

BCD - Drills 2-4

PT - Endurance training

SAA - Live Firing 2, WHTs (part of MATT 1 test)

Day 3

Drill - Paying compliments

SAA - Live Firing 3 (part of MATT 1 test)

BCD - Drill 5

Map Reading - Identifying signs and relief

Day 4

Drill - Marking time

CBRN - Recognizing the threat

Map Reading - Using a compass, Measuring lines, Setting bearings

Excercise HALF WAY - A night in the field to include the following: Judging distances, Use of Range cards, Reacting to signals and verbal commands, Tactical use of ground, obstacle crossing

Day 5

Exercise HALF WAY (continued) - A day and night in the field to include the following: Indication of targets, Harbour extraction, Navigation

Day 6

Map Reading - Measuring lines, Setting bearings

BCD - Drills 6-9

PT - Strength and conditioning

Day 7

SAA - Live Firing 4

CBRN - Use of CBRN clothing and equipment

PT - Introduction to battle PT, agility training

Day 8

Drill - Foot drill, drill tests

BCD - Drills 10-11, Basic Life Support test (part of MATT 3 test)

Counter IED (C-IED) - MATT 9 presentation

CBRN - CBRN agents

Day 9

CBRN - NATO signs and alarms, using the respirator

PT - Battle PT

Social - BBQ

Day 10

SAA - Live Firing 5

BCD - MATT 3 tests

PT - Battle PT

CBRN - Practice

Day 11

Map Reading - Routes

CBRN - MATT 4 tests

SAA - Using the bayonet

Exercise FINAL FLING - A night in the field to include the following: Planning and following routes, simple C-IED scenarios

Day 12

Exercise FINAL FLING (continued) - Another night in the field following on from Day 11.

Day 13

PT - Tests

Map Reading - MATT 5 tests

Day 14

Drill - Passing Out Parade

Output Standards

In order to successfully complete TSC(B), the SuT must pass 8 TOs, comprising: 6 MATTs subjects, Fieldcraft and Foot Drill.

a. Pass all 8 TOs = PASS

b. Pass 7, but Fail 1 TO = DEFERRED PASS (The Unit must retest the SuT within 6 months. The CO of the unit must sign a certificate of completion contained within SuT Report Book and send it to the respective TSC(B) course provider. The course provider will then issue a Full Pass Certificate.)

c. Fail 2 or more TOs = FAIL (SuT must re-attend the full TSC(B) within 6 months, attending refresher training no more than 8 weeks prior to the start of TSC(B).)

If the SuT fails a re-test following a DEFERRED PASS or the re-test has not been conducted within 6 months, the SuT must re-attend the full TSC(B), attending and passing refresher training no more than 8 weeks prior to the start of TSC(B).

Phase 2 Training

Phase 2 training, also known as Trade training or Special To Arm (STA) training is different depending on which capbadge you are joining and what trade you wish to pursue in the TA. The links below will direct you to more information about what to expect in Phase 2 training:

Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) - If you are joining the HAC you will have likely done your Phase 1 training with them rather than following the system outlined on this page and you should direct any of your questions regarding Phase 2 to the HAC directly.

Royal Armoured Corps (RAC) - The TA RAC

Royal Regiment of Artillery (RA) - The TA RA

Corps of Royal Engineers (RE) - The TA RE

Royal Corps of Signals (R Sigs) - The TA R SIGS

Infantry - If you are joining the TA Infantry you should really be reading the TSC(Inf) section above.

Army Air Corps (AAC) - The TA AAC

Royal Army Chaplains Department (RAChD) - The TA RAChD is only open to professionally qualified ministers of the recognised religious faiths and consists only of Officers who are commissioned through the PQO route.

The Royal Logistic Corps (RLC) - The TA RLC

Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC) - The TA RAMC

Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) - The TA REME

The Adjutant General's Corps (AGC) - The TA AGC (All Branches)

Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) -

Small Arms School Corps (SASC) - The TA SASC

Royal Army Dental Corps (RADC) -

Intelligence Corps (Int Corps) - The TA INT CORPS

The Royal Army Physical Training Corps (RAPTC) - As a TA soldier it is not possible to join the RAPTC direct from Phase 1 training. Potential Physical Training Instructors (PTIs) are selected to attend the TA PTI (Basic) course by their unit and retain the capbadge of their own unit. They will be required to complete the Phase 2 training relevant to their Main Trade For Pay (MTFP) within their own capbadge (follow the other links in this section).

Queen Alexandra's Royal Army Nursing Corps (QARANC) -

Media Operations Group (MOG) -

Corps of Army Music (CAMUS) -

TSC(B) - Tips and Advice

Where can I find out the course dates?

Ask your recruiting staff or your SPSI, they will have access to them and will be able to provide you a copy. If possible phone to let them know in advance rather than knocking on their door on a Drill Night as they will have other things to be getting on with.

When will I get my Joining Instructions (JIs)?

Once your place on the course has been confirmed by HQ Recruiting Group on TRHJ (usually 6-8 weeks before the course start date) JIs can be downloaded from TRHJ and issued to you. You should take care to complete all the relevant Annexes to the JIs well in advance and pass them to your SPSI. He should then fax copies of the Annexes and your TSC(A) report book and certificate to the relevant training provider (you may also be provided with copies to take down with you, do not lose them!).

I've been booked on a course but can't attend, what do I do?

Places on the courses are limited and you should only cancel if you have good reason to do so however things do happen and the sooner you let your unit know the better. You should phone your recruiting staff or your SPSI and let them know as soon as possible so that they can remove you from the course. Ideally you should check the other dates the course is running and let them know when you definitely can attend so that they can try and rebook you as soon as possible. Remember if you don't go onto TSC(B) within 8 weeks of TSC(A) you will have to do a refresher weekend, if you don't go within 6 months of TSC(A) you will have to start from scratch.

I've heard Pirbright is harder, what's the difference betweeen training providers?

Don't believe everything you hear! Some soldiers do find the course difficult, especially if they haven't prepared properly, and then complain that it was because they went to Pirbright rather than 5 Trg Regt (Grantham) or the other way round. The truth is the course is the same wherever you do it (though some of the lessons may be in a different order), the best advice is to do as much fitness training as possible before you go to make sure you stand the best chance of passing out with flying colours. The only real differences are that the course intakes at 5 Trg Regt are smaller so there are fewer places for SuTs and Pirbright runs Male only intakes whereas all intakes at 5 Trg Regt are open to Males and Females. Where you go to do the course will mostly depend on where your unit is based geographically and how many places are available at the time you apply. If you are based in Northern Ireland it isn't very likely that you'll do your course at 5 Trg Regt when you can do it at your RTC!

What kit do I need?

A copy of the kit list will be included in your JIs but the lists are replicated below for reference (remember to check your JIs as the list below may be out-of-date):

Army Training Centre (Pirbright)

CLOTHING

1 x Bag Kit universal/Lge civilian bag, 1 x Belt Working Plastic/webbed, 2 x Pairs of Boots Combat, 1 x Regt Head-dress, 1 x Bonnet (as appropriate for Scottish Div), 2 x Pairs of Drawers Cold Weather OD, 1 x Gloves Mil Issued, 1 x Headover, 2 x Pairs of Insoles, 1 x Field Shirt Norwegian, 1 x Liner Jacket Cold Weather/Mil Fleece, 2 x Jacket Lw DPM (Cmbt 95 shirt), 2 x Issued Smock Combat Temperate DPM/ Cmbt 95, 1 x Smock Waterproof DPM, 3 (minimum) x Socks Combat OD, 2 x Pairs of Trousers Combat Temperate DPM/Cmbt 95, 1 x Pair of Trousers Waterproof DPM, 2 x Vest Cold Weather, 1 x Vest O/D Green, T-Shirt, 1 x RCK & Rifle sling.

WEBBING

1 x Full CEMO, 1 x Water Bottle and Mug, 1 x Set of Mess Tins, 1 x Set of KFS, 4 x Bungees, 1 x Shelter Sheet DPM CN 8415-99-667-1242, 1 x Respirator c/w canister and Sack, 1 x CBRN Suit complete, 1 x DKP 1 and 2, 1 x Spare Canister, 1 x Helmet Mk 5 or Mk 6 and Cover, 1 x Pair of Ear Defenders 1 x Sleeping Mat 1 x Sleeping System complete.

PT KIT

1 x Pair of Shorts PT, 1 x Pair of Issue Trainers, 2 x Pairs of Sports Socks, 1 x Tracksuit (dark, no large logos), Sports Bras (females).

WASH KIT

2 x Towel hand green, 1 x Razor, 3 x Spare Blades/Razors, 2 x Soap, 1 x Toothbrush, 1 x Toothpaste, 1 x Shampoo, 1 x Shaving stick/brush, Sanitary items (females only).

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS

3 x Bin Liners (Heavy duty), 1 x Boot Cleaning Kit, 1 x Washing Powder, 1 x Foot Powder, 2 x Pairs of Spare Laces, 1 x Needle and Thread, 2 x Notebook and Pencil, 1 x Torch, 2 x Batteries, 1 x Penknife (under 3”), 5 x Coat Hangers, 2 x Plastic Bags large, 2 x Padlocks, 1 x Pair of Flip Flops (for showering), Kirby Grips (females), Civilian clothes for travel.

DOCUMENTATION

Course Attendance and Fitness Confirmation Certificate (if not already sent), MOD Form 90 –ID Card or Chit in Lieu, TSC(A) Soldier under Training Report Book (if not already sent), TSC(A) Soldier under Training Passport.

5 Trg Regt RLC (Grantham)

CLOTHING

1 x Bag Kit universal/Lge civilian Bag, 1 x Belt Working Plastic/webbed, 2 x Pais of Boots Combat, 1 x Regt Head-dress, 1 x Bonnet (as appropriate for Scottish Div), 2 x Pairs of Drawers Cold Weather OD, 1 x Pair of Gloves Mil Issued, 1 x Headover, 2 x Pairs of Insoles, 1 x Field Shirt Norwegian, 1 x Liner Jacket Cold Weather/Mil Fleece, 2 x Shirt Combat GS/Cmbt 95, 2 x Smock Combat Temperate DPM/ Cmbt 95, 1 x Smock Waterproof DPM, 3 (minimum) x Pairs of Socks Combat OD, 2 x Pairs of Trousers Combat Temperate DPM/Cmbt 95, 1 x Pair Trousers Waterproof DPM, 2 x Vest Cold Weather, 1 x Vest O/D Green, T-Shirt.

WEBBING

1 x Full CEMO, 1 x Water Bottle and Mug, 1 x Set of Mess Tins, 1 x Set of KFS, 4 x Bungees, 1 x Poncho (CN 8415-99-667-1242 Poncho) DPM, 1 x Respirator c/w canister and Sack, 1 x NBC Suit complete, 1 x DKP 1 and 2, 1 x Spare Canister, 1 x Helmet Mk 5 or Mk 6 and Cover, 1 x Pair of Ear Defenders, 1 x Sleeping Mat, 1 x Sleeping System complete.

PT KIT

1 x Pair of Shorts PT, 2 x Pairs of Sports Socks, 1 x Tracksuit, 1 x Pair Trainers, Sports Bras (females only)

WASH KIT

2 x Towel hand green, 1 x Razor, 3 x Spare Blades/Razors, 2 x Soap, 1 x Toothbrush, 1 x Toothpaste, 1 x Shampoo, 1 x Shaving stick/brush, Sanitary items (females only).

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS

3 x Bin Liners (Heavy duty), 1 x Boot Cleaning Kit, 1 x Washing Powder, 1 x Foot Powder, 2 x Pairs of Spare Laces, 1 x Needle and Thread, 2 x Notebook and Pencil, 1 x Torch, 2 x Batteries (for torch), 1 x Penknife (under 3”), 5 x Coat Hangers, 2 x Plastic Bags large, 2 x Padlocks, Kirby Grips (females), Civilian clothes for travel.

DOCUMENTATION

Course Attendance and Fitness Confirmation Certificate (Annex C) (if not already sent), MOD Form 90 - ID Card or Chit in Lieu, Soldier under Training Report Book (if not already sent).

38 (Irish) Brigade RTC (Northern Ireland)

Details to follow.

Can I wear my own boots?

Unless you have authority from a military doctor issued when there is a medical reason requiring specialist boots then the answer is NO, if you a genuine medical reason then yes: see here. During Phase 1 training you will be expected to wear issue boots. You should collect yours from the stores as soon as possible after attestation and wear them regularly to break them in before you go on TSC (A).

You should arrive with your military boots (2 pairs) worn-in. Preparation for and completion of the 4 mile loaded march (carrying equipment to be completed in 1 hour) and field exercise phase of the course are intensive and physically demanding. It is strongly advised that you conduct some endurance PT in your boots carrying weight (no more than 10kg) in order to make sure your boots are broken-in. This should reduce the likelihood of injury. All personnel must be aware of the methods of protecting and preparing feet for marching and endurance (i.e. foot powder, taping feet with zinc oxide tape and frequent sock changes). Properly fitted and worn-in boots are essential to the successful completion of the course.

Can I invite my family to my passing out parade?

On the final day of the course there will be a Passing Out Parade (POP). This is the prestigious culmination of your initial training. There will be a full parade with a Reviewing Officer and Band, finishing with a lunch. You may invite family, friends and employers to this parade. Specific details will be issued to you separately during the course. Representatives from your unit may also attend.