TA Platoon Tactics Course - Section Commanders

Explaining this course to your employer

This two-week course is aimed at developing leadership ability and really puts it to the test. It also develops skills in areas such as planning, organisation and communication.

Passing the course qualifies the candidate to command a ‘section’ in an operational environment such as Afghanistan, where he or she would be responsible for the tasks, welfare and effectiveness of 7 other soldiers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A ‘section’ is the basic building block of the infantry. Three sections make up a platoon.

What does the training involve?

• At least 12 hours training a day
• Combat fitness test
• Lectures and individual tuition in leadership, tactical planning and communication
• Field exercises
• Simulated military scenarios such as platoon attacks, patrolling, defensive operations and casualty evacuation
• Managing subordinates

What would it cost your employer?

According to research endorsed by the Chartered Management Institute, if your employer was to pay for training to deliver equivalent employee development it would cost them in the order of £2,625 This only relates to the skills that would be relevant to a civilian workplace - areas such as decision-making and management.

How does it benefit your employer?

The training will develop the following skills and qualities:

• Leadership, taking responsibility for a group of seven colleagues
• Decision-making in high-pressure, challenging situations
• Planning based on situational analysis and set procedures
• Clear communication of plans to others to ensure delivery
• Self-motivation and confidence