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If I gain new qualifications while in the Army, can I change to a new trade?
Definitely - we're keen to see people who have improved their skills take on new challenges. We move a number of internally-recruited people into new trades each year but, in the interest of fairness, they must meet the same minimum entry requirements as new applicants.
Return to topCan I study for school qualifications while I'm in the Army?
Your first year or so in the Army is very busy, as you learn the basic things you need to know to perform your trade. Once you've served for 12 months you can apply for Army to fund your study towards many courses at Universities and Polytechs. Many Army courses gain credits towards qualifications and Army will pay for you to complete these qualifications. Army has its own undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses offered by the Centre for Defence Studies at Massey University.
Return to topWhere will my training take place?
Where you'll train depends on your chosen trade. The Army has trade-training schools in Army camps throughout New Zealand, and we also send soldiers to train at polytechnics and other establishments.
Return to topWhat will my training involve?
There are more than 20 trades in the Army, and training is different for each one. Generally speaking, all involve an initial trade training course that begins once AARC Training is complete. This course gives you the essential skills and knowledge you need to be able to perform your duties, and provides you with the history, traditions and customs of your unit. Throughout your training, you'll log your competencies for trade tasks, on-the-job training, trade courses and experience.
Return to topOnce I've finished AARC, what happens then?
When your AARC is complete, you'll either start initial trade training or undertake a short period of on-the-job training at your new work unit prior to a training course. When your training course is complete, you'll start doing the job you trained to do.
Return to topWhat is All Arms Recruit Course training?
This course, previously known as Basic Training, is where new soldiers learn the core skills everyone in the Army must know. To make sure you can operate effectively in a team environment, you'll undertake lectures, practical activities and field exercises on subjects including drill, weapon handling, navigation, field craft, physical training and personal development.
Return to topWhat skills will I learn in the different trades?
The Army offers a variety of both civilian and military-based skills for each trade. For example, if you joined as a plumber you would first learn how to complete domestic trade work within a camp environment, just as a civilian plumber would, before learning how to provide the same services in a field situation. We place particular emphasis upon developing initiative and problem-solving skills.
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This page was last reviewed on 19 July 2006 and is current.
