University offering students Army training

‌The University has been working with 143 (West Midlands) Brigade and 4 Mercian Regiment to develop The University of Wolverhampton Reserve Platoon.

The platoon offers positions for staff or students, where they will receive basic Army training, learn military skills, and take part in activities like climbing, scuba diving and kayaking.

There are several entry requirements, such as being aged between 18 and 43 and being able to pass an Army medical.

Those who meet the requirements and join the Army Reserve will be eligible for training allowances and a tax-free lump sum called a Bounty.  This will increase each year served as a Reservist.  In the first year the Bounty is £424, but after five years members will receive an extra £1,674.

The minimum training commitment is 40 days a year and training itself takes place in the evenings and at weekends. There is also a two week annual camp or course.

When the regular Army needs reserve soldiers to support them it goes through a process called mobilisation. Members of the University’s reserve platoon will only be mobilised if the Army really requires it but members of their employees can object if it would seriously affect their personal life or work. While studying at the University members will not be mobilised to deploy on operations.

Lianne Bradbury, the University of Wolverhampton’s Armed Forces Co-ordinator, said: “When you join the University of Wolverhampton Reserve Platoon, your training will develop every aspect of you. From learning new military skills, to completing civilian qualifications or just developing your confidence. Being an Army Reservist is a great way to gain exciting new skills.

“Time management, leadership and reliability are important qualities for everyone to have. In the Army Reserve they're vital. By training and spending time with University of Wolverhampton Reserve Platoon you will soon find that you start getting into some really good habits.”

The recruitment team will be available in the University to talk to those interested in joining the Reserve Platoon on Tuesday, February 25, from 11am to 2pm at the Harrison Learning Centre, City Campus and on Thursday, February 27 from 11am to 2pm at The Performance Hub, Walsall Campus.

For more information on the University of Wolverhampton Reserve Platoon, visitwww.wlv.ac.uk/uowreserveplatoon.

ENDS

For more information please contact Chris Jones in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322736

Date Issued: Monday, February 17, 2014