Military taster for employees

24.04.2019

Around 40 Aberdeenshire Council and Sport Aberdeen employees developed their leadership skills at an event run by Aberdeen Universities Officers’ Training Corps at the city’s Gordon Barracks. 

The council had requested that the ‘Mini-Stretch’ day be held so employees could get a taste of what military personnel go through in their training, to enhance their own leadership skills and to step out of their comfort zones.

The aim was also to give employees a better appreciation of what former Armed Forces personnel or Reservists can bring to Aberdeenshire Council and Sport Aberdeen in terms of transferable skills.

The day started with an in-depth presentation on the Army Leadership Model by Aberdeen UOTC Commanding Officer Lt Col Geraint Davies. This included a discussion on leadership styles and the positive impact on recruits from cultural changes to Army training methods.

Participants were then split into six groups to take part in a variety of practical and intellectual challenges.

This started with drill instruction carried out amid glorious sunshine by the Regimental Sergeant Major in front of the Barracks. After a few wrong turns and poorly-timed steps the participants were soon enjoying themselves while grasping the basics of drill.

The participants get to grips with drill instruction.

Following a short break the command tasks got under way with stands including a simulated river crossing and improvised explosive device removal.

One of the teams tackles the simulated river crossing.

The red team celebrates successfully completing a task.

The groups worked well at each of the tasks, with most completed within the allotted time.

Aberdeenshire Council HR Team Leader Glenda Gray said: “I have heard nothing but great feedback from the Aberdeenshire Council participants. Everyone seems to have thoroughly enjoyed their day – even the drill!”

Lt Col Davies added: “It was a very successful day, helped by the wonderful weather, which I am sure participants thoroughly enjoyed. I was impressed by the energy and enthusiasm of all the groups involved.

“Whilst their drill needs work, the teams’ approach to problem-solving, inter-group communication and willingness to learn and experiment was first class. I am thankful for the efforts of the team here to deliver the event and for Aberdeenshire Council and Sports Aberdeen for taking part.”

Council employees also attended a 7 SCOTS-run session earlier this year at the Barry Buddon Training Area, near Carnoustie, to learn about military equipment and to see the training provided. There will also be a further Mini-Stretch event to be held at Rosyth in October.

For further information contact Michelle McKearnon at Highland RFCA on [email protected].

By the left, quick march!

Aberdeen UOTC officer cadets pose with HRFCA mascot, Sergeant Major George Seathwood.

 

 



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