What is the full process from start of basic to becoming a para?

Hi there,

Your first port of call is here, which tells you all you need to know;
https://apply.army.mod.uk/roles/infantry/paratrooper

To simplify it for you, apply online for the above role to get the ball rolling. You will then have a chat with a recruiting soldier. Typically, you'd pop down to the local careers centre, but a lot of communication is being carried out virtually.

Then it's off to the army assessment centre, where you will complete a mix of team tasks, a fitness test, an icebreaker (talking to other potential recruits) and medical tests, finishing off with an interview to establish your reasoning for joining the British army. Note the fitness requirements on the army job website for joining as a Paratrooper; these are non-negotiable, so ensure you maintain and keep your fitness up.

If you're successful at the above, there is an extra assessment centre, specifically for Paratroopers, focusing heavily on fitness and teamwork; Parachute Regiment Aptitude Course (PRAC). There are resources on YouTube/ Google giving you further information about this course, but I will say again, fitness is key!

Then it's off to Catterick to complete the Combat Infantry Course. If you're under 17 years 6 months, you will go to Harrogate first, but again, all details are on the website link above. Once you have completed the course at Catterick, and passed the arduous, infamous P-Company, you then complete a 3-week jumps course, typically at Brize Norton alongside the RAF. It's here you will then receive the coveted 'para wings'.

Ensure your fitness is in peak condition. Can you run 2km in under 8 minutes 15 seconds? Can you complete a bleep test to level 11.06? Paratroopers are one of the elite, fittest fighting forces of the British army so fitness is key when applying.

Good luck, and if you've got any further questions, feel free to ask away, either on here or a local careers centre.