Hello I’m soon to start my phase 1 training for the Scots Guards and was wondering if I’m still eligible to stay in the ATC.I know I can no longer be a cadet but was wondering if Army Personnel can join as an SI and also how soon can you send your application to wing for it?
I was an SI when I was 19. I wasn’t told of any issues with it. Your chain of command needs to be aware, but I’d wait until you get to Battalion before you attempt it. You’ll find it difficult to balance both commitments, your unit may also have standing orders banning trainees from interactions with cadets. My training camp did. You’ll also get a lot of “banter” from your mates in training if you mention cadets!
Basically wait until you get to battalion.
i think theres an age restriction - 20 if i recall - my advice would be the same as the above: wait till you get to Bn, get yourself squared away and well into the swing of things, and then think about it.
i would absolutely not start making moves in that direction untill you are well established within your Pln and your Pln Cdr and Pln Sgt know you, and are happy with you - any such request made while they think you’ve still work to do will go down like cold sick, and not only will they say no, but you’ll properly blot your copy book as being a big timing idiot if you’re lucky, and a wannabe nonce if you’re not.
i also don’t think it would do you any harm whatsoever to give yourself a good break from cadets, concentrate on what you’re doing, give it a really good crack, get loads of Bn experience under your belt, and then think about it in the same way you might think about going to 4/73, SF or Spt Coy.
The rules for being an SI state that you have to be at least 20 the same as any other member of staff. (Exceptions can be made by the Regional Commandant). The admin has to be signed off by your OC before it can go through the ATC chain of command so as Angus says its best to be established at your Battalion before you start looking at it.
Best bit of advice, get your training out of the way, learn your job and get comfortable and then if you are still interested go for it. You are about to embark on a very steep learning curve so I would make that your primary focus.
Just to give a bit of balance to whats been listed above, gauge the time when you think its best to do it. You will know your CoC better than anyone else.
I did my application after 3 weeks into Basic Trg at BRNC Dartmouth. Caused no issue. I also know and have worked with other Army SI who applied in basic and others who applied once they moved on (Sigs, RMP, REME, RLC, PWRR) so it depends on who you are working for. Biggest part, don’t stress over it, the process is a lot simpler in the ACO than it ever was before.
Your biggest issue will be getting your CoC to understand and appreciate what you actually do and your commitments as an SI. I have heard of all sorts of questions being asked about what you do, uniforms you wear and many more!
Yes you will get banter from your immediate vicinity but I would add in the longterm and higher up the CoC its looked on very favourable and such work is supported by the highest levels now (although not fully understood)
If you have any issues when you do chose to go down this route, PM me, I am more than happy to provide support and explanations to your seniors as required.