The key aim of all training in Wales UOTC is to develop leadership. This is an important and transferable skill, useful in all walks of life.  So you'll learn a lot in the UOTC whether you choose to join the Army or not.

Military training

Wales UOTC has five military training weekends a year. Over these weekends, Officer cadets are taught a variety of military skills including camouflage, weapon handling drills, platoon attacks, and survival.

These weekends are complimented by weekly lessons on a Tuesday night. This culminates with a final exercise on the fifth weekend which brings together all the previous training, and is actually a lot of fun!

In the summer there is a 2 week annual camp, which usually involves a week of military training and a week of adventurous training and sport. The military training during camp can vary from mine clearance, assault courses to casualty evacuations.

There are also cultural visits to places like the National Memorial Arboretum.

Adventurous training

Adventurous training (AT) is a vital part of the Military Leadership Development Programme providing challenges and skills training in a wide range of non-military environments.

AT takes individuals out of their comfort zones, pushes them to their limits, improves physical fitness and tests their reactions.

Wales UOTC organises an average of 9 AT trips a year.

Last year, we organised trips including skiing in the Alps, sailing in Croatia, climbing in Greece, surfing in Devon, sea kayaking in Cyprus, trekking in Transylvania, parachuting in California and white water rafting in Bavaria.

Sport

Wales UOTC has teams for rugby, football, cross country, netball and hockey. They compete against other UOTCs in individual matches and in the annual Inter-OTC Queens Cup Competition at RMA Sandhurst.

There are also two inter-company sports days a year where the officer cadets compete in their company groups against each other. This helps to build individuals' team skills, camaraderie and determination.

Social

Wales UOTC is regarded by many as the best club in the University.  The OTC social is key to ensuring that this is true. 

The camaraderie created throughout the training and the lifestyle means that there is a great sense of belonging and this adds to the atmosphere of the social functions. Whether as a group returning to the bar after a long day's training, or the whole unit enjoying the May Ball - there is lots of fun to be had!

Social events and fancy dress nights take place after most drill nights, and can vary from a pub quiz to a superheroes night, from the Army vs Navy rugby match to the annual Christmas X Factor competition.

Wales UOTC also hosts 4 regimental dinners a year, a cocktail party and a 'Beating Retreat' where officer cadets host guests from the wider business and civic community together with senior military members of the Army.

The purpose of these is to develop an understanding of the rules and traditions of an Officers' Mess. These are great fun and provide an opportunity to meet regular and TA officers and to see everyone dressed in their finest!