Infantry Guardsman

The Infantry, it is the tip of the spear and of the highest operational importance to the British Army. Because of this the combat training you will receive is second to none. Obviously there are variables but as a whole being Infantry means that you would be the fittest, most robust and demonstrate the highest level skill at arms amongst your colleagues outside of the Infantry.

The great thing about this job is that after completing basic training, you have already become a specialist in combat.

Life in the Infantry is built around teamwork, training and being ready to deploy. It’s active, varied and focused on working closely with your team, whether you’re training in the UK or operating overseas.

Anybody who has a good general level of fitness will be absolutely fine. Basic training is about taking you from being fit to being Army fit.

You don’t need to arrive as a finished athlete. If you’re reasonably active and willing to put the effort in, you’ll improve quickly with training and support.

Phase 1 training will gradually push your limits, both physically and mentally, and you learn a lot about what you’re capable of.

Basic training is where you learn the fundamentals of Army life, from fitness and discipline to teamwork and core soldiering skills. It’s challenging, but you’re supported every step of the way as you build confidence and resilience.

The challenges of an Infantry Soldier vary tremendously.

Everything you do for the first time will be a challenge… but that is the best part, you learn from it, grow and develop. In every role or rank you find yourself in there will be new challenges, more experience gained and with that much more job satisfaction. You are always learning.

You’ll face physical and mental challenges in the Infantry, from demanding training to operating in tough environments. But with the support of your team and the training you receive, you’ll build the confidence and resilience to overcome them.

There truly is no job like being in the Army, where colleagues become your friends.

You’re living, training and working with the same people, so friendships build very quickly.

Yes. Everyone starts in the same position, learning together and supporting each other. That shared journey makes it easy to form friendships and feel like you belong.

I was attached to an infantry unit and it is very physically demanding. As you can imagine, they are very fit and strong. But do not let it hinder you! I had a lot of fun and went on some very good exercises aboard with them

Women in the Infantry meet the same standards as everyone else, and the role is physically demanding. But with the right training, support and determination, many are succeeding and building strong, professional careers alongside their peers.