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At the time of writing these notes, I find myself slowly drifting towards the resettlement pathway at the latter end of my RAPTC career. I believe that being back at the ASPT at the end of my career is not only a great privilege, but also a fitting end. Afterall, the ASPT is where it all started for me as a PTI back in 1994 and latterly as an APTC probationer in 1999. Being the ASPT QM is a superb, fulfilling and fitting way to bring the Corps journey to a close.
Since taking up my appointment as QM, the entire G4 Team and I have been extremely busy managing the day-to- day business of supporting the extensive Course delivery programme and the ASPT’s aging infrastructure development projects. We are pushing hard to try to improve the ASPT Lived Experience for our staff and students within Fox Lines, so I will take this opportunity to provide an update on what is and is not happening within Fox Lines.
COMMAND BATHS
REGENERATION PROPOSAL
The original planning project was to refurbish the listed building (known as the Command Baths) into a Strength and Conditioning Centre (S&CC). However, due to the current financial climate and extensive remediation work requirements and substantial financial increases (minimum cost of £24 million) to refurbish
Maj (MAA) J Yates RAPTC
ASPT G4 AND INFRASTRUCTURE
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Working in CDC has been a transformative experience for me, offering a refreshing change of pace compared to the demands of frontline duties of a RAPTCI at Sandhurst. This role has not only allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the development of courses and the workplace but has also provided the flexibility to achieve a healthier work-life balance, allowing me to prioritise family commitments.
One of the most rewarding aspects of CDC is the opportunity to explore the intricacies of how and why we create and continually improve our courses at the ASPT. Also, understanding the Defence Systems Approach to Training (DSAT) has enhanced my ability to look at training from a different angle and understand the bigger picture.
Sgt (SI) D Ford RAPTC
It’s not very often we have a full team in the office as it is encouraged from the top down to organise, participate and support Corps and Army sport and this approach is the same for Adventurous Training. Sgt (SI) Colwill continues to engage with sport climbing and SSgt (SSI) Crossett took part in Parachuting in Cyprus. I was fortunate enough to go on the Battlefield Study to Gibraltar within the first few months of being posted in, which was a great opportunity to get to know the other individuals from the different departments.
Working in CDC has given me a greater breadth of knowledge and understanding of the inner-workings of a Headquarters. I have also picked up skills I never thought I would, my computer skills have undergone significant improvement which has
Sgt Colwill climbing
given me more confidence for when I arrive at a Field Force unit. I didn’t anticipate that I would take so much away from this assignment.
MY COURSE DESIGN CELL (CDC) EXPERIENCE
Inside the Command Baths
the building this refurbishment proposal has been discounted and is no longer a supported option.
ASPT NEW BUILD GYMNASIUM IMPLEMENTATION PROJECT
With the removal of the Comd Baths as a development project, Fox Lines
New Build Gymnasium Design Concept