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On joining the Royal Marines i would quite like to specialise as a vehicle Mechanic after a couple of years doing General Duties. But i was sitting looking through the Army Careers for Vehicle Mechanics and they say u need alot of Qualifications to do the course in the Army.

Is it the same for the Marines ??? If anyone knows please let me know.


Thanks !!

I'm pretty sure any SQ/TQ in the RM can be entered so long as you get the appropriate NAMET score - ie. even if you don't have the necessary qualifications, you can take the NAMET tests once you're in that you need to get on the course.

On the Royal Navy website a few weeks back I saw something which said that it is possible to become a vehicle mechanic straight out of basic training through a direct entry scheme. Dont know if it still applies, but if you are interested then phone the AFCO or check www.royal-navy.mod.uk

Whats SQ/TQ and NAMET ???

SQs and TQs are Specialist and Technical Qualifications. NAMET is Naval Maths and English Test. If you have A-C in Maths and English GCSE you already have a NAMET score of 0-0 (the best), you need a NAMET score of 5-5 to be promoted after training. if you dont have the right GCSEs you'll take the NAMET tests in training so you'll be qualified before leaving CTC. you can apply to be a VM straight from training but you'll have to wait for a course to come up.

ok thanks for the help, its just because if u want to become an Army Mechanic u need a range of different qualifications, and i was just wondering if it was the same for the Marines.

i think its different for the army because when you join, you are joining as a mechanic, whereas in the marines everyone becomes (and is) a marine first and then they specialise

my hubby tommy gun is a VM in the marines, he first joined up as a GD (general duties) Marine then eventually decided he wanted to specialise. He spent a long time at SEME Bordon (nice place but full of army )before qualifying and he has continuosly done course after course to qualify in many aspects of the trade. He is now working with the REME out here in Germany and is learning all the time. Decide what you want to do then go for it, but i know there is a shortage of VMs in the branch as many have been disillusioned by lack of promotion due to filling dead mens shoes (that is a saying- not actual). But hes done ok, as have many, and the courses he has completed can take him into civvy street when the time eventually comes.