Invictus13

Hi All,

I have taken the first step into applying for officer entry at Sandhurst and undertaken the informal interview.

The thing is I am a serving police officer (5 years experience CID, response, public order units) and have since a kid wanted to join the army. However due to family circumstances this is the first time I have been able to take the first step.

Now I wanted to ask the experienced amongst you if leaving the old bill for Sandhurst and beyond is a good step to make or if I am making a crazy choice. Thing is due to my age these will be my last two year's of possible entry.

Also I was wandering if my higher than average age would prevent me from joining certain regiments such as the paras.

Part of my thought process is that a mixed police and military background might put me in better stead later on in the civilian security world. What do ou guys think?


Guys any advice is more than welcome.

Thx

morrigan

My opinion is that a police background when working in the security industry is just as good as a military background.

andywilliams1187

Agreed,

YOur police background would already put yyou at an advantage.

With regards to joining the army, you may find it more beneficial to go for something like an RMP.

Your age should not stop you from joining certain regiments, but i would speak with a careers advisor at the AFCO to make sure.

R2700m

Why would becoming an Rmp be more benificial than the Infantry then andy?

Good luck with whatever you decide Invictus

morrigan

invictus13

Why wouldn't you consider a move into SO19 or ARV or some other specialized role ? Understand your childhood ambitions but dont you think you would be better served with a more specialist police background. Sandhurst is not going to hold much sway in the Private sector.

andywilliams1187

I would only reccomend the Rmp over the infantry on the basis that the person in question is an ex-police officer.

If they want to then go into Close Protection they could then go in for the RMP Longmoore course.

Personally, I would always recoommend the infantry, I served for four years in the Royal Green Jackets and it was the best time of my life.

Walks99

Why don't you look at the reserves, TA etc. I know the Police have a quota on how many can join but it might be an idea if you are still undecided. Still be an Officer in the TA and it's a bit of break without going the whole hog.

R2700m

OMG another Bin lid!

If infact Invictus13 intends to go down the CP pass I would advise him to stay where he is and in a agreement with Morrigan he is better place in the Civ police to achieve it.

As other members of the forum have come to realise, a background in Rmp CP will not always guarentee employment in the UK as an sia license is still required.

Carl Dowd

Invictus 13, Good evening. I would be more than willing to discuss your situation in more detail if you feel willing and comfortable to do so. Alternatively, we could use the private chat host here, if you wish. I possess an extensive military background including working with Sandhurst cadets, Rowallen Company. Also, as you will see from my website I have connections with UK Police TFU's. I feel and sense that this is a very serious career choice for you? and therefore, I would be willing to help and also if necessary I could out you in touch with some other colleagues (Active). I'll leave it completely to you. Contact details at RTD Group all the best, Carl