If I apply for the Gunners......?

Once I've applied, what next?
When you have enquired to your Army Careers Adviser, the first step is usually to attend the AOSB Briefing during which you will learn about the Army Officer selection process.  After that the board will recommend that you either go straight to AOSB or wait awhile to work on any areas that need improvement (such as physical strength or your ability to work out a plan). If you pass the AOSB you will be offered a place at Sandhurst!

If you express an interest in finding out more about the Gunners you will be invited to attend a 3 day familiarisation visit at Larkhill, during which you will be able to find out all about a possible career as a Royal Artillery Officer.

What tips can you provide for AOSB?
No amount of coaching can turn you into a natural leader or officer. The AOSB Briefing will show you what to expect at Westbury, but the only true advice that anyone will give you is to be yourself!

After training, how will my posting be decided? Shall I have any say in it?
Of course you will! However, there are several factors to be taken into account that will determine your final posting, namely:
a. Where the vacancies are.
b. Your choice of discipline.
c. Your preference.
d. Your performance.

Aren't Gunner officers all rather technical?
No. There is a requirement, of course, for Gunner officers to be interested and trained in technical matters, but many officers join with non technical qualifications and are taught all they need to know while on the YO's course, and subsequently throughout their career. Training is a continuous process, you never stop learning.

As a Gunner officer what sort of work will I do when not on exercise?
A Gunner subaltern 'in barracks' will find himself instructing or organising courses of instruction for his men in any of their military skills. When not working on military skills the young officer can be expected to organise expeditions abroad, adventure training courses locally and sports and games for his soldiers.
Officers have to plan well ahead to make sure that their soldiers' time is well used and not wasted. You will help plan and co-ordinate the training of the battery. What is guaranteed is that while in barracks no two days are the same!

Can you describe a typical Royal Artillery officer?
No. We do not think anyone is 'typical'; we try to avoid stereotyping or typecast. Gunner officers are individuals - possessing many common qualities such as good leadership, intellect and ability.

Do I have to be a graduate to join the Gunners?
No. Over eighty percent of our officers are graduates but we do not distinguish between graduates and non graduates, when it comes to postings, promotions or a career pattern. 

What type of degree does the Royal Artillery want its officers to have?
The Royal Artillery does not specify what type of degree it wants its graduate officers to hold. From Anthropology to Zoology, Engineering to Business Studies, the Gunners will not distinguish between degrees, although some will be of more value to you than others.

Is the Royal Artillery a sporting Regiment?
Most definitely. The many victoriesof the Regiment on the sports field  are too numerous to mention here, but the Gunners have successful teams in all major and minor sports.

How many new officers can the Royal Artillery take each year?
About 60 Officers will be commissioned into the Gunners each year, split equally amongst the three RMAS terms.

What roles are available for female officers?
All officer roles are open to Female officers.  What we are looking for is leaders who will ultimately command their troops in combat situations.  For service with the Commando or parachute trained units, officers regardless of sex, must pass the same rigorous selection tests.
 
Do I have to select a particular Regiment to join before Sandhurst?
No.  At RMAS you will have an opportunity to see all parts of the Army during the Choice of Arm process.  During several events you will be able to speak to Officers and Soldiers and make up your mind about where you would like to join.  However, as a military saying goes "Time spent on recce is seldom wasted," it is in your interest to find out as much about the Army and it's Regiments before you get to Sandhurst - so do come and visit us!