Once a potential member of HQ (Westminster Dragoons) Squadron, The Royal Yeomanry passes the recruit selection weekend, he or she is placed on a military foundation course run over a course of weekends at a Recruit Training Centre (RTC) and at the squadron.

The squadron’s recruits undergo a graduated training regime which encompasses the foundation skills vital to all British Army soldiers.

Amongst the subjects taught are basic weapon handling, battlefield first aid, CBRN defence, foot drill, fitness training and fieldcraft.

Recruits find these weekends both challenging and interesting. There is also a social aspect to them. Potential members of HQ Sqn RY meet with fellow recruits from different squadrons within the Royal Yeomanry. Friendships made in the midst of the challenges of military training are long-lasting.

Potential members of HQ Sqn RY are put forward for the Trained Soldier Course (Bravo) when they are fully ready.  This is not to say that their TSC(B) will be easy.  But they are well-prepared.  The course is run by regular Army teaching staff and, although much of it will be revision, it is a pass or fail course which is often both physically and mentally demanding.  For more information about TSC(B), click here.

Recruits who pass TSC(B) are presented with HQ (Westminster Dragoons) Squadron’s distinctive black beret and the Royal Yeomanry capbadge.  They have earned the right to wear them!