On successful completion of the Army Selection and Military Skills Courses the compulsory Training Process for entry into 63 (SAS) Signal Squadron (Reserve) follows four stages, outlined below. There are two intakes per year, scheduled for summer and winter.  Aptitude and continuation training for potential mobilisation can take up to between 18 to 24 months.

1. Pre-Aptitude

The aim of pre-aptitude training is to equip each candidate with the basic skills, knowledge and required standard of physical fitness to prepare them for the Aptitude Course.  The pre-aptitude training is carried out on normal Squadron drill evenings once per week over a 10 week period. 

Candidates will be expected to study and do physical training in their own time.  During this period individuals will receive advice on their progress, areas of weakness and any aspects of training or study they may need to focus on. 

The minimum physical standard required to progress onto the Aptitude Course is 44 press-ups, 50 situps and a 1.5 mile (2.4km) run completed in under 10mins 30secs - candidates are recommended to ensure they can comfortably surpass this standard.

2.  Aptitude Course

On completion of the Pre-Aptitude Training candidates complete the Aptitude Course over a period of five weekends normally carried out within a three month period. The aim of this course is to determine each candidate's suitability for employment within the Squadron and aptitude for further training. 

Weekly training evenings will continue over this period.  Aptitude training will focus on the development of the candidate's individual skills, knowledge and physical fitness, while assessing their performance against the eligibility criteria for employment with the Squadron. 

Candidates will be expected to demonstrate that they are able to operate effectively when physically and mentally stressed and under time pressure; absorb and use complex information when fatigued; navigate alone over unfamiliar hilly terrain at a minimum speed of 3km/h point to point carrying 40lbs of equipment; complete an 8 mile speed-march in 2 hours carrying 40lbs of equipment.

Candidates will be expected to study and do physical training in their own time over the period of the course.

3. Phase 2 Assessment Training

On successful completion of the Aptitude Course candidates will attend a period of 2 weeks Military Skills and Communications Training, the aim of which is to equip the candidate with the basic level of knowledge and skills required to enable them to train with the rest of the Squadron on exercise. 

Candidates demonstrating a strong competence at this stage will be accepted as Fit for Appointment.

4.  Probationary Year & Continuation Training

Candidates accepted as Fit for Appointment will then commence a probationary year in order to become Fit for Mobilisation. 

During that time they must attend all normal Squadron collective training and satisfactorily complete several further periods of mandatory training which includes developing knowledge of UKSF(R) military skills and communications and a 2 week training exercise, normally overseas.

Further Training Opportunities

Further opportunities for more advanced training exist for soldiers who achieve Fit for Mobilisation status. This includes military parachute training and other regular army qualifications. 

Opportunities also exist for Adventure Training including skiing, mountain climbing, sailing and sports endurance events for which individuals can also gain military and civilian qualifications.