Page 88 - Mind, Body and Spirit 2016/17

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THE NEW RAPTCI’S FIRST IMPRESSIONS
On the 9th December 2016, I completed my training and transferred in to the RAPTC, embarking on my new career at the Army Training Centre (Pirbright); my initial
responsibility was that of a Syndicate leader as well as the 2 Army Training Regiment (2 ATR Sergeant Instructor (SI).
Like anyone who starts a new job, you have nerves along with excitement about the challenge ahead as I had no idea what to expect, especially as this was my rst time as an instructor at a Phase 1 training establishment. After nding my feet and following my Regimental Induction and ASLS courses, I quickly embraced the challenges ahead. Some of these that have a tendency to keep me busy are the daily management of 17 x AAPTIs as well as a [often demanding] Regiment consisting of 5 ‘training’ Squadrons.
Having now been here and settled in, you don’t realise the entire infrastructure, process or even policies that are put in place in order to deliver an effective and ef cient training programme. With a large drive on recruitment within the Army, it is great to see the standard of training that is being delivered at ATC Pirbright; from a tness aspect I believe training has changed in a positive way over the years. The tness programme is a lot more structured and covers key areas, such as lessons on correct squatting and lifting techniques. Not only does this help the recruits gain the strength and conditioning they need but it also aids in injury reduction.
Sgt (SI) Grose RAPTC Driving the Stretcher
On completion of RAPTC Instructors’ course we were told re-badging is a lot like passing your driving test, you will only become better with both time and experience, and I can say with conviction that I am looking forward to my time here; I’m sure I’ll be enhancing my knowledge and gaining that much needed experience along the way.
Sgt (SI) C Grose RAPTC
ARMY TRAINING REGIMENT GRANTHAM
WO2 (QMSI) D Hill RAPTC
Army Training Regiment (Grantham) has the main effort of delivering Basic Training (Phase One) to the Army Reserve. The camp itself sits just off the A1 in Lincolnshire and takes only 1hr 10mins by train to London. Over the period I have been posted here, notwithstanding the usual turnover of recruits, the camp has played host to both Army and Tri Service level sport, and more planned in the future.
After arriving in late May 16, areas were identi ed in need of a uplift, in particular was the strength training area which looked like something from the late 70’s, and since the camp has six regular and reserve units all located within the wire (including
the relocated ASPT (G)) I made the updating of the gym my top priority. Fortunately Maj (MAA) Stoddart RAPTC had won the lottery in ARTD and gave each unit a slice of funding which the gym spent with ease. Job done!
The gym continues to support all activities within Station, of note was the ‘It’s a Knockout’ Competition as part of the summer Station Families Day in 2016. Old school games and ne weather ensured fun was had by all. Assistance was also given throughout the year to our very own Maj (MAA) Hughes RAPTC working at HQ 102 Logistic Brigade (HQ 102 Log Bde), with main event being the Bde Command Team Study Day which included Dragon Boat racing and raft building within the local area. Carrying on the water theme, our focus then switched to support the restoration of Grantham canal in the form of Concept 2 rowing in the local Sainsbury’s store, this included eight hours of continuous rowing, raising over £800.
In mid- September a small group from ATR (G) departed to the Yorkshire Dales for a Multi Activity week of Adventurous Training. With the average age well into its forties (and some being few/ many years older) the activities where tapered down to suit the group’s needs. All enjoyed the challenges and where thankful for both a change in scenery and the opportunity to sample the ne local ale.
With announcement in November 2016 that the Barracks would potentially close not before 2020, a dark cloud hangs over Grantham, more so for the reservists and civil servants, many of whom choosing to settle in this area.
Until then ATR (G) will continue to train Reserve Recruits at this location before relocating to ATR-(P) in the future, more announcements to follow.
Gym Staff prepared for Christmas PT