I reccomend arriving the night before as you get to know a few of the peeps in your room and also get to see your kit and how your pack your bergens.
Day 1
Started the day by having a presentation from the PGAC Corporal about the RAF Regiment. We then got another presentation on 'Key Skills'. We then had to complete a series of tests on a computer which showed what Key SKills level we were at (these tests lasted about 2 hrs).
After completing the Key Skills tests we were taken to the gym where we had to do a series of fitness tests. These were :
* Level 9.1 on the Bleep test (A steady Jog/Run)
* 10 Pressups in 1 minute (Easy
)* 25 Pressups in 1 minute
* 2 lengths of the pool in any stroke (200m I think?)
After these, we were taken to the mess hall and enjoyed a rather nice meal
. After this we were shown around the Trainee Gunner Barrack Block which included displays of the weapons, grenades, night vision aids etc. After this, we made our way back to our block and got some much needed kip in.Day 2
After getting breakfast, were told to dress in the camaflouge gear that was layed out for us. We made our way down to honington to do the 3 mile run in 24 mins . I didnt expect this to be as hard as it was. Still did it ok, just took me by suprise a bit. After completing this, you shower and make your way up to the base (we stopped off at the Spar on the way so make sure you take money, none of us did
) After this, we did something else, Im not quite sure what, so Ill just skip a bit. We then made our way back to RAF Barnham and were shown the ration packs we would be using from then onwards. We had Beef Paste and biscuits for dinner....After packing all our gear and putting on all the equipment, we were issued with plastic moulding weapons of the SA 80. The bergens packed weighed about 13kg I think (seemed loads heavier at the time
). The corporal then marched us towards the top gate at Barnham which leads onto the field exercise course. They dont actually tell you about this, but we had to do quick march and double time jogging for about 1 1/2 - 2 miles (with packed bergens, its quite a shock to the system). This took a lot out of the peeps and many dropped out. Dropping out doesnt mean you fail the course but better to finish it anyways * You WILL FAIL THE PGAC if you dont pass the 3 mile run, situps, pressups and swim.
After a real exhausting tap to the harbour area (camp). We were shown a demo of Gunners attacking a enemy position in a group of 4. We were then shown where we were to setup our bivouac's. All through the night we had to take turns to guard the harbour area. I wont say to much about what happens because I particuarly enjoyed it and want you to do the same.
Day 3
After waking up, you make breakfast and then pack up all your stuff and make your way back to Barnham. Once you get there we had to have a shower, clean all out equipment, shave and get dressed ready for our interview. The SGT then came round and did a inspection of everyones kit.
After this, we made our way down to Honington for our interviews. They basically talk about you and how you did on the course and what they think. If you passed all the tests then youre basically in.
I managed to pass all the tests and I must say I rather enjoyed myself. I met a lot of funny people and enjoyed their company. It was fun
Just to let you know 15 out of around 31 passed the PGAC, so as you can see its tougher than what everyone thinks.
Typical funny moment :
Corporal: What else can you eat when youre in the field?
Irish lad: Potatoes Corporal! (had to stop meself laughing)
All in all, really enjoyed myself. Been told I should recieve a letter telling me to get on the TG course in March. I look forward to it, If anyone wants any more info on the PGAC then pm me or somet. Thanx and hope this helps someone.
