Special visitors inspire Mansfield students to consider careers in the military

Bubbles of students received navy and army careers advice.

The Royal Navy’s Lieutenant Commander (Lt Cdr) John Coates and the Army’s Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) Wayne Hall were on hand before the half-term break at West Nottinghamshire College to present to public services students about the breadth of career options, their lives in the military and their own career starting points.

The groups of students welcomed their guests stood in the traditional style of a military drill, which they have been taught along with other basic movements, while on the public services courses.

Students were able to ask about the different kinds of experiences in the forces including what it’s like to live and work away from home, what the lifestyle of a person in the military is like and how to apply for jobs.

Tutors and students met RSM Wayne Hall and Lt Cdr John Coates in the college's sports hall.

Lt Cdr Coates and RSM Hall both gave their accounts of work in Cypress, Afghanistan and their involvement in a number of international major incidents.

They spoke of what it’s like to be away from their families while performing their duties.

They were able to let students know about the recruitment process when applying for the army or navy, the kind of attributes needed to forge a career in the military as well as the importance of maths and English skills needed for various job roles.

Head of hairdressing, beauty, sport and public services Sarah Morley, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome our guests with their wealth of experience for our students to discover more about.

"The combination of guests like this with our teaching staff who have military backgrounds is adding such value to our students’ experiences as they move forward with exploring such careers.”