Supporting Parents & Guardians

To mark 100 years of Army Apprenticeships in October 2023, we partnered with Amazing Apprenticeships and BBC presenter Rachel Burden for a special discussion as part of the Parent Perspective podcast series. The February 2024 Podcast episode featured two guest speaker and together, they explored the breadth of Army Apprenticeships and shared insights from a parent whose son recently joined the Army.

Listen to the podcast today.

In partnership with Amazing Apprenticeships, this video gives an honest, down‑to‑earth look at life at the Army Foundation College Harrogate. You hear directly from two Junior Soldiers, Oscar and Max, as they talk about their training and the opportunities available to them. Parents, staff and the Commanding Officer also share their perspectives, helping to show the support, structure and guidance surrounding young people as they start their Army journey. 

Parents describe feeling proud, reassured and supportive as Jess pursues a career as an Army Medic. They highlight the range of opportunities, the structured training, and the personal growth they’ve seen in her since choosing the Army. Their comments reflect a journey from initial uncertainty to confidence once they understood the professional qualifications, career stability, and positive environment the Army provides.

Watch Jess & Family's video now

This video focuses on the questions and concerns parents naturally have when their young person expresses interest in joining the Army. It shows that while young people may feel excitement and motivation, parents often need clear information, reassurance about safety, role suitability, and long‑term career prospects. The message reinforces that it is normal for parents to feel uncertain at first, and that understanding the training process, role pathways, and support systems helps them feel more confident.

Watch the video now.

Yes. The Army is all about learning and development. Your child will have plenty of chances to build new skills. We offer financial support for further education and provide specialist courses that lead to recognised civilian qualifications.

Not every soldier’s day-to-day role involves combat. Many jobs, like mechanics, chefs or engineers, are focused on other tasks. There may be times when soldiers are needed in combat situations, but not all roles are near the front line. Whatever their job, your child will be fully trained and prepared.

Yes. During training, weekends and holiday breaks are built in. Once training is complete and they’ve joined their unit, they can go home at weekends if they don’t have duties. Soldiers also get annual leave.

In the first four weeks of basic training, they can change their mind. After that, soldiers are expected to serve for four years, including training, but they can hand in their notice after three years. The majority of soldiers choose to stay for much longer.

Every Regiment and Corps offers a range of roles and trades, with clear paths for promotion and career progression. You can explore the Army Role Finder on the Army Jobs website to see what’s possible.

The Army invests in their future. They’ll have opportunities to gain qualifications throughout their career – from apprenticeships and literacy support to degrees and even master’s or PhDs. These skills are valued by civilian employers too.

Being a soldier can mean time away from home, but the Army is committed to supporting families. Whether it’s housing, childcare, pregnancy or flexible working, there’s lots of help available.

We encourage families to learn as much as possible about Army life. There’s plenty of support for parents and carers, including dedicated advisers at Army Recruitment Centres who can answer your questions.

Yes. They can use their phone in their own time. During training and working hours, like any job, they won’t be able to use it – but they’re free to make and receive calls when they’re off duty.