THE Royal Armoured Corps Training Regiment in Bovington has been rated ‘good’ by Ofsted for the care and welfare of its trainees.

Trainees told Ofsted that the troop staff regularly ‘go the extra mile’ in their support.

Two establishments were judged outstanding in all four key judgements and for overall effectiveness.

Another seven areas were graded good overall, while two need improvement.

Inspectors also found that trainees feel safe and benefit from effective individual coaching and mentoring support from trainers and troop staff.

The report found that trainees’ overall pass rates are very high for all initial trade training courses, which prepare them well for the move to Field Army units.

RACTR has an annual intake of around 450 trainees. It is part of the Armour Centre (ARMCEN) based in Bovington, Dorset, and provides all initial trade training for Household Cavalry, Royal Armoured Corps officers and soldiers, and soldiers of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers who are assigned to armoured units.

Inspectors found that trainees learn their chosen Royal Armoured Corps trade in a logical and well-sequenced order and that staff often review how well trainees are developing and retaining the skills and knowledge they will need in the Field Army.

Inspectors also noted that trainees are motivated and feel well equipped for their chosen careers.

The report noted that they have access to very good teaching and learning resources and very few trainees decide to leave their course, or to leave military training altogether.