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Ihave only been at the Infantry Battle School (IBS) for 4 months and I am still learning the battle rhythm and the
course layout. So far, it has been great working alongside some of the best instructors in the army, who are highly motivated and at the top of their game.
IBS trains junior officers, senior non- commissioned officers and junior non- commissioned officers from the Infantry in Dismounted Close Combat (DCC) Skills; this is only a proportion of the courses that take place at the school. Other courses consist of Skills at Arms, Infantry Instructor Training Course, Close-Quarter Battle Instructors and Urban Operators Instructors Course.
Sport. IBS permanent staff members continue to participate in sports, and they have had some success with mountain biking and volleyball. The Mountain Bike Team participated in the Army Cross Country Mountain Bike Race Series 2023, which took place in various locations across the country including Sherwood Pines, Cannock Chase, Catterick, Tidworth and Pippingford Park. The Volleyball Team participated in the UK Midlands Inter- Unit Volleyball Competition in Beacon Barracks, Stafford. The IBS team proved undefeatable and were Champions this year. The team also showcased exceptional talent and resilience in the Army Volleyball Finals, competing against top teams from the across the Army securing an impressive third place out of 11 strong teams.
Ex DRAGON CANYON WARRIOR Team
INFANTRY BATTLE SCHOOL ‘SEIZE THE INITIATIVE’
WO2 (QMSI) D Thomas RAPTC
Adventurous Training. A team of 19 deployed on Exercise DRAGON CANYON WARRIOR, an expedition to the Grand Canyon USA. This trek aimed to introduce IBS personnel to Level 3 overseas AT and to develop physical and mental robustness, leadership and resilience through controlled exposure to risk. Also, to qualify participants through the distributed training of the Summer Mountain Foundation (SMF) qualification. For most of the participants, it was their first time visiting the USA and expectations
were high. On arrival at the Grand Canyon, the views were breath-taking, and it is no surprise that it is considered one of the natural wonders of the world. The campsite at Mather was only $18 per night, which was a steal because it included all facilities. It was an incredible experience to be in a National Park, waking up to the sound of nature and the spectacular views. The hiking started the next day and continued around the Grand Canyon for the next 7 days. Every day, there is a different route with a different challenge. The first hike was along the rim, where we explored the trails. It is a dream destination for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts. The team was able to go all the way down to the Colorado River, as well as to many other historical and iconic places around the Grand Canyon. The expedition proceeded flawlessly, without any problems, and 14 novices successfully earned the SMF qualification. It was a once-in-a-lifetime trip that sparked interest in summer mountaineering, progressing through the AT scheme, becoming leaders and going on to organise further overseas trips.
IBS Volleyball Team
IBS Gym Staff