How to Join the Territorial Army

The Territorial Army (TA) is Britain’s military reserve force. If a military career appeals to you, but you don’t want to leave your current job, the TA may be the right option for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Visit the Army Careers website (see Resources).
2. Request a free DVD and information pack. You can do this just by filling out an online form.
3. Find a local Army Careers office. On the army careers website, you can just type in your postcode to be told where the nearest Army Careers office is.
4. Visit your local Army Careers Office and get your questions answered.
5. Understand the commitment that is involved in joining the Territorial Army. You will be required to attend between 19 and 27 training days per year. Many of these take place at weekends but you will also be required to attend a two-week training camp. Once you join the TA, you can expect to be mobilised for active service within a few years. The minimum service period is 3 years.
6. Find out where your local Territorial Army unit is based. Visit the local TA base and talk to some of the people there to get an idea about whether the TA is right for you.
7. Decide whether you want to join a local Territorial Army unit or a national unit. You may be asked to join a national unit if you have specialist skills.
8. Apply to the Territorial Army. You can do this via the website. Then attend an interview. At this stage, they will primarily be interested in assessing your personal fitness level. They’ll also be happy to answer any questions you might have.
9. Participate in the Recruitment Initial Selection Course. This will give you a taste of what you can expect in the TA. If you like it, and they like you, you’ll be asked to join and invited to attend further training.
10. Complete your training. This will take place gradually over about a year. Then attend a Passing Out Parade as a fully-fledged soldier.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware of the impact joining the Territorial Army might have on your career. If you are mobilised, you will receive the same pay as you would in your normal job. By law, your employer must give you your job back when your period of mobilisation ends, and cannot discriminate against you because you are in the TA. If you are looking for a new employer, though, being in the TA may count against you when it comes time for them to make a hiring decision. Some employers openly support the TA; others may be concerned about the prospect of losing a key member of staff at an unpredictable time.

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