Paratrooper

The Infantry, it is the tip of the spear and of the highest operational importance to the British Army. Because of this the combat training you will receive is second to none. Obviously there are variables but as a whole being Infantry means that you would be the fittest, most robust and demonstrate the highest level skill at arms amongst your colleagues outside of the Infantry.

The great thing about this job is that after completing basic training, you have already become a specialist in combat.

Life in the Infantry is built around teamwork, training and being ready to deploy. It’s active, varied and focused on working closely with your team, whether you’re training in the UK or operating overseas.

Anybody who has a good general level of fitness will be absolutely fine. Basic training is about taking you from being fit to being Army fit.

You don’t need to arrive as a finished athlete. If you’re reasonably active and willing to put the effort in, you’ll improve quickly with training and support.

It’s similar to a normal working day, with gyms, food halls and social spaces available on camp.

Living on a base gives you a good balance of structure and normal day‑to‑day life. Your days usually have a routine, like training, work and meals, but there’s also plenty of time to relax. You live close to the people you work with, so there’s a strong sense of community. In the evenings or downtime, you might go to the gym, watch TV, play sport or just catch up with mates. Everything you need is close by, which makes settling in much easier.

The challenges of an Infantry Soldier vary tremendously.

Everything you do for the first time will be a challenge… but that is the best part, you learn from it, grow and develop. In every role or rank you find yourself in there will be new challenges, more experience gained and with that much more job satisfaction. You are always learning.

You’ll face physical and mental challenges in the Infantry, from demanding training to operating in tough environments. But with the support of your team and the training you receive, you’ll build the confidence and resilience to overcome them.

Phase 1 training will gradually push your limits, both physically and mentally, and you learn a lot about what you’re capable of.

Basic training is where you learn the fundamentals of Army life, from fitness and discipline to teamwork and core soldiering skills. It’s challenging, but you’re supported every step of the way as you build confidence and resilience.

I was attached to an infantry unit and it is very physically demanding. As you can imagine, they are very fit and strong. But do not let it hinder you! I had a lot of fun and went on some very good exercises aboard with them

Women in the Infantry meet the same standards as everyone else, and the role is physically demanding. But with the right training, support and determination, many are succeeding and building strong, professional careers alongside their peers.