Congratulations to Upper Sixth student and Trinity CCF member Victor who has been awarded a prestigious Army Scholarship, following a rigorous application process earlier this year. The Army Scholarship programme aims to select some of the best potential young officers for entry into the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst.
Capt. Muirhead, CCF School Staff Instructor, said, “Competition for an army scholarship is tough – most who apply are not successful. Victor has demonstrated that he has what it takes to develop into an excellent army officer. He joins a growing list of former pupils that have gone on to serve (in all three services), and we are very proud of his achievement. Well done.”
Victor says, “I was unsure if I wanted to join the British Army after A Levels or go to university. I spoke to the CCF about potential pathways, did some research and visited an open day at the Army Officer training academy – Sandhurst. In the process I found out about the Army Officer Scholarship Scheme, which contributes funding for scholars through university, and guarantees a place at Sandhurst Academy after university.
“The selection process took around five months in total and involved completing online interviews and medical exams to confirm eligibility. The main assessments took place at the AOSB (Army Officer Selection Board) in Westbury over the course of three days. This involved a series of physical and mental testing involving fitness tests, interviews, essay writing and overcoming challenges as a group.
“The most challenging aspect was the ‘command tasks’, which involved crossing an obstacle as a group, with certain aids and burdens. During my turn to lead one of these command tasks, a group member dropped a scaffolding pole onto his hand and broke four fingers. Luckily, he’s fully recovered now and got the scholarship too.
“It felt good to read the acceptance letter; it has taken some of the stress out of Sixth Form, as I no longer need to worry about finding a job after uni.
“My current plan is to finish A Levels and study Business and Management at university. The army encourages scholars to take a gap year to gain some life experience before officer training, and I’m looking to either go interrailing with the scholarship money or attend RMA Sandhurst and get a commission in a gap year. Within the army I would like to join the 29-commando artillery and complete the required 4 to gain a secondary degree if I stay in for 10 years.
“Trinity CCF helped me a lot during my preparation for the assessment and I would like to thank all the staff involved. I have thoroughly enjoyed being a member of the CCF and would encourage any current Third Years to consider joining. The highlight of CCF for me was the training provided in Cyprus, summer 2023. The army section improved their field craft skills in a foreign environment, and attacking/defending at a platoon level, while mixing with cadets from other schools. The RAF got to mess about with bomb disposal robots and go for rides in helicopters.
“I would strongly encourage any current student in the Fifth Year or Lower Sixth to consider the pathways the Army has to offer. Financial support is offered from Year 13 and can sponsor you though higher education. There is a large selection of bursaries to apply for if you’re interested in doing a university course related to STEM, music, or anything medical. I would be very happy to share my experience and tips with anyone who would find it helpful.
“Once again, huge thanks to the CCF staff and many teachers at Trinity School, Croydon, who have encouraged and supported me in the process.”
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