Every recruit in the Reserve Forces goes through basic recruit training. The only exceptions to this rule are soldiers, sailors or airmen with previous military experience.

During this stage you will learn basic military skills on training weekends, midweek training evenings and finally a two week course. The two week course is normally run by the regular army at a Recruit Training Centre for the TA. You will learn about such things as physical fitness, fieldcraft, first aid, weapon handling and map reading.

Once you have completed your basic training you will then start your trade training, say as a driver, radio operator, electrician or mortar operator.

A mix of classroom and hands on training will have you performing your specific tasks effectively, efficiently and professionally within a year. The test of your new skills comes when you go out on exercise and contribute to your unit's success.

Whatever your background, if you have the aptitude, you could be selected for officer training. The Queens Commission rightly commands respect, as those who hold it have passed a rigorous selection programme. Initially your unit will select you for officer training which will lead to attendance at a Territorial Commissions Board (TCB).

There you will be assessed through a series of mental and physical tasks and if successful you will receive further leadership and development training. You will be given every possible opportunity to develop your analytical, management and leadership skills, before attending the commissioning course at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

If successful, you will be granted a probationary commission as a Second Lieutenant. If you have previous military experience with the Regular or Reserves Forces, including the Officer Training Corps, or hold special skills such as a Doctor or Chaplain, you may be eligible for a Direct Commission.

Many of the courses you attend will give you vocational qualifications which could be relevant to your civilian career; for example City and Guilds Hazmat certificate, Food Handlers certificate.

A category C+E driving licence is an essential part of many trades - another useful qualification to pick up along the way.

The Territorial Army places great emphasis on training, and all those who are already qualified are expected to teach the next generation of recruits.

You will be taught how to instruct others, and this not only develops your self confidence, but is also a very rewarding activity.