The Military Preparation School - Wales

The Military Preparation School offersa full curriculum designed for pupils aged 14-16 who are in school and are interested in gaining an insight into life in the Armed Forces and other similar career routes. The School provides a range of activities including team-building, first aid training and basic fieldcraft, all designed to provide an understanding of the career options available in civilian Public Service and the Armed Forces.

50% of the course is physical, with the training programme in both Year 10 and 11 demanding pupils to push themselves in a range of settings from the military swim test to the mighty obstacle course. The PT programme is progressive and our bib system enables all abilities to participate to the best of their ability.

Academic work is based on the students’ individual strengths and abilities. The emphasis is on developing a range of Key Skills which will not only prepare our young people for the wider world and employment, but also accredit their learning with the nationally recognised BTEC Level 2 in Public Services . Our training methods are also borne out of the desire to promote greater individual confidence and to enhance self-esteem. Students take part in charity events to raise money for those in need - the students have recently raised money for the Army Benevolent Fund and the Royal British Legion.

At the end of each term, there is an overnight exercise where the students can practise all the skills they have developed on the course. This includes setting up ponchos to form a military camp, cooking in the field, overnight patrols, camouflage and concealment and fitness training. These activities are designed to encourage the students to think for themselves and make decisions in a challenging environment.

Students train at the Military Preparation School from one day up to five days per week for a maximum of 2 years as part of their Key Stage 4 education at school. As a member of the 14-19 Pathway provision the Military Preparation School provides education and training that is in keeping with the holistic framework of the Learning Pathways initiative whilst enhancing the provision with our own unique style of hands on learning.

To download the MPS flyer click here.

If you're in year 11 and have an interest in what MPCT can offer when you leave school, then download an application form and send it to Lorna Murphy at MPCT Head Office. Please visit the contact us page for more details.

To read the Welsh MPS Protocols and Procedures and find out when the next induction takes places click here. 

The Military Preparation School - England

MPS England offers two unique courses that allow 14 – 16 learners to access training that will empower them to pursue a career in the Uniformed or Public services, other career routes or continue training in Further Education (FE).

Workskills Route - Up to 5 days a week

The Get Set, Get Prepared, Get Going course is a roll-on roll-off programme which re-engages young people using non-traditional methods that are particularly effective with the less academic learner. The curriculum supports the learners’ personal and social development and builds their self-esteem, while supporting literacy and numeracy skills. This includes elements of sport and fitness to engage the learners from an early stage. During induction, learners are encouraged to take individual responsibility for their attendance, timekeeping and attitude inside and outside the College. They are made aware of available support to assist them in managing their personal lives. The programme teaches life skills which are useful in further training or in employment. Advice and guidance are provided throughout the course, enabling the learner to determine which career path is most suitable for them.

During the course, learners have the opportunity to achieve units towards an award and certificate qualification in a Level 1 BTEC WorkSkills. Embedded in the programme is the ABC of employability, Attitude, Behaviour and Communication. This qualification allows learners to access an extensive package of bite-sized learning. The manageable volume and flexibility of the units on this course allows students to accumulate credits at their own pace. This BTEC level 1 programme is vocationally based around Uniformed Services in line with the wider curriculum.

Public Services Route - 3 days a week

MPS England developed a curriculum designed for pupils aged 14-16 who are interested in gaining an insight into life in the Armed Forces or other roles in the Public Services including health and social care, emergency services and leisure. Through the Get Set Get Prepared Get Going in Public services course. The programme provides a range of activities including team-building, personal leadership and employability skills. All activities are designed to engage, motivate and educate students, providing them with an understanding of the career options available in the Public Services. The students will work towards a nationally recognised BTEC Level 1 in Public Services during their time on the course.

50% of the course consists of enjoyable physical activities for both Year 10 and 11 pupils. The PT programme is inclusive and our bib system enables students of all abilities to participate and progress at their own rate. Physical challenges include the Armed Forces Fitness Test, training sessions at local outdoor areas and charity events.

The course enables students to learn about the various career options in the Public Sector by arranging visits to local venues. Students complete work in personal effectiveness and also gain practical experience in fitness and lifestyle within the public services. The activities that students take part in when on the programme are challenging, active, rewarding and diverse, equipping them with a range of transferable skills and attributes. This course will give them a valuable insight into various career routes, allowing them to make informed vocational choices. 

To download the Pre-Apprenticeship Prospectus click here.

To download the MPS flyer click here.

If you're in year 11 and have an interest in what MPCT can offer when you leave school, then download an application form and send it to Lorna Murphy at MPCT Head Office. Please visit the contact us page for more details.

The MPS programme is availabe in Brighton, Eastbourne, Farnborough, Portsmouth and Southampton. If you are interested in the MPS programme or you would like more information about the course including funding, please contact Amanda or Gemma.