Should I join at 16 or wait till 18?

Hello,

So this is exactly the same situation I was in a few years ago. I had no clue on what I would do in College, but knew I wanted to join the Army.

By joining at 16 you'll attend AFC Harrogate for Basic Training, for the Royal Signals this will mean about 6 months, before attending Phase 2 Trade Training.

During your time in Harrogate, you can work towards either a Functional Skills Level 2 in English, Maths, Science or IT (Depending on GCSE results) or a BTEC. Whilst attending Phase 2 in the Royal Signals, you will work towards an Apprenticeship, this will carry on into your first unit and will be done under your own steam. On completion of this, you will achieve a Level 4 Certificate within IT, bringing you in line with A Levels.

Within the Royal Signals, you'll have plenty of opportunities to pursue more courses within IT, or alternatively using the Education Credits, you may find another course you would like to do.

An important thing to know also, is on the first day of basic training, you are getting a wage, which nearly no other college or apprenticeship scheme offers.

Definitely speak to your career advisers at school, to help point you in the right direction, as well as talking to your local army career office who will be able to help with a lot more (Such as training).

I hope this helps!

Jack.