Could someone join Harrogate when they are over the age requirement? Is the age limit 17 and 5 months?

Hi there,

No, you cannot carry out your basic training at Harrogate if you're past the cut off age. You will instead have the option to complete your basic training at Pirbright or Winchester.

Regardless of where you complete your basic training, you will cover similar aspects, from fieldcraft and skill at arms, to military knowledge and physical fitness, all designed to help transition you from civilian to soldier. There is a strong emphasis on education and personal development work at Harrogate and the delivery of training is conducted in accordance with a carefully synchronised College programme, with the aim of being progressive whilst providing variety.

As an overview, the difference in training duration;

AFC Harrogate - 49 weeks (with eight weeks holiday) for those joining Infantry, Royal Armoured Corps, Royal Artillery and some Royal Logistic Corps roles. For other roles, training lasts roughly 23 weeks (including three weeks holiday).

ATC Pirbright/ ATR Winchester - 14 weeks (including a long weekend or holiday), delivered to the majority of job roles excluding Infantry.

ITC Catterick - 26 weeks, specifically for those joining Line Infantry, Foot Guards, PARAs or Gurkha.

For more information, on the different training locations, see https://www.army.mod.uk/who-we-are/our-schools-and-colleges/

Basic training whilst tough can be really enjoyable, where long lasting bonds are formed. I hope the above information is of help, and get in touch if you've any further questions!