Getting a taste of Army life

One hundred school students will be introduced to the unique challenges and opportunities of Army life during a four-day stay at Waiouru Army Camp next week.

The annual Army Career Experience camp will host the Year 12 and 13 students from Taranaki, Palmerston North, Wanganui, Napier, Gisborne and Wellington.

During their stay the students will live in Waiouru’s barrack accommodation, learn the basic skills and drills required of soldiers, face the challenges of the Army’s physical training routine and be introduced to the career options available in the New Zealand Army.

Their time at Waiouru is completed by visits to the Army Museum and the New Zealand Army National Marae.

Warrant Officer Jase Turner said the opportunity to visit Waiouru was always oversubscribed by the students.

“We filled all the slots within two weeks of inviting schools to visit. Students are always keen to experience Army life and see what the Army has to offer them.

“The purpose of the visit is to promote the Army’s ethos, values and lifestyle as a key point of difference in the employment market so we can recruit the right people at the right time.”

The Army Careers Experience runs from September 24 to 28.