What qualifications do I need?

No formal qualifications are necessary to take part in Summer Challenge 08 08 although you do need to be enthusiastic, willing to learn and interested in a career in the TA or Army. We would expect that new recruits have a moderate level of fitness although exceptions can be made. Click here to view your fitness programme.

To join the TA you need to be aged between 17 years and six months (on commencing training) and 43. In certain circumstances the TA accepts higher age limits for those joining as professionally qualified or specialist entrants. Ex-regulars may be enlisted up to 52 years of age.

How do I register?

By filling out the online application form which can be found by clicking here or by visiting 'apply now'. Once this has been successfully completed you will receive an acknowledgement receipt in your inbox. Alternatively text ‘challenge’ followed by your postcode to 60300. Either way, once you have registered an interest a TA careers adviser will be in touch soon. Registering an interest does not obligate participation. In other words, you are not committed to take part.

What will I get?

On successful completion of Summer Challenge 08 you will receive around £1,500 gross (approx) in pay. On top of that you will have taken the first step into a whole new world of excitement and opportunity. At the end of your first year's training you will receive a tax free bounty starting at around £400.

Where will I stay?

The training will take place at Malta barracks, Aldershot, in Hampshire. The centre is well equipped with a variety of facilities. Recruits will sleep in bunk-style accommodation. There will be an element of field exercise which will involve recruits living in the field. All recruits are expected to stay on site throughout the training programme.

What will I need to bring with me?

Kit needed for Summer Challenge 08, such as military uniform, boots and training equipment, will be provided. Personal belongings are permitted. All recruits will be fully advised by their careers adviser before the event.

What’s different about Summer Challenge 08 and normal TA training?

Summer Challenge 08 is a fast-track recruitment programme after which you'll be successfully passed out as a fully trained soldier. Under conventional TA recruitment you would be required to complete 27 days of training in a year split over weekends and during mid-week drill nights.

What happens after Summer Challenge 08?

Everyone who successfully completes Summer Challenge 08 will return to their unit. This will become your designated TA unit and from here you may travel the world, be deployed on operations or assist in many other activities. You will be expected to complete approximately 27 days a year training thereafter (mostly at weekends and mid-week with a 15 day camp/course) but you will already have completed one year's training.

What happens if I don't like Summer Challenge 08?

Last year around 30 soldiers were proudly passed out as fully qualified soldiers after successfully completing Summer Challenge 08. The majority are now deployed at units across the South enjoying their new role in the TA.

However, if after starting Summer Challenge 08 you discover that it is not for you, there's no legal obligation to stay. In other words you are free to leave if you choose. The Army recognises that these decisions can be difficult and will provide careers advice and counsel before such decisions are reached.

What happens if I am not selected for Summer Challenge 08 08?

Summer Challenge 08 is just one way in which you can join the TA. If, for whatever reason, you can't participate in Summer Challenge 08 08 we are still very interested in you. Speak to your local careers adviser by clicking here.