A Medic or Nurse in the military provides essential healthcare to service personnel in the British Army, Royal Navy, or Royal Air Force. Their role involves treating injuries, managing illnesses, and providing emergency care both in the UK and on overseas operations. Military nurses often work in field hospitals, clinics, or even on ships and in aircraft. Training is comprehensive and includes both medical qualifications and military skills. This career is suitable for those who are resilient, adaptable, and passionate about helping others, especially in challenging or high-pressure environments. Ongoing training and development are key parts of the job, with opportunities to gain additional qualifications and progress through the ranks.
Military medics or nurses in the UK typically start with a salary between £21,000 and £27,000 per year, depending on rank and experience.
The Defence Medical Services employ approximately 7,000 medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, and medics.
Military medics and nurses may be deployed globally, supporting UK forces in operations, humanitarian missions, and training exercises.
Provides emergency medical care on the battlefield and supports soldiers during military operations.
Delivers healthcare to sailors and marines, both on ships and at shore bases, and assists with medical emergencies.
Manages and delivers nursing care to Royal Air Force personnel, both in the UK and overseas, often in challenging environments.
Learn about the roles, responsibilities, and environments military medics and nurses work in.
Look for information on the official British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force websites. There are also career talks, open days, and online videos that can give you insight into what life is like as a military healthcare professional. Consider what might appeal to you about serving in the Armed Forces as well as working in a medical setting.
Find out the qualifications, skills, and attributes needed to become a military medic or nurse.
Military medics usually need GCSEs (or equivalents) in English, Maths, and Science. Aspiring nurses typically need A levels or equivalent qualifications to enter a nursing degree programme. Physical fitness, teamwork, and resilience are essential. Each branch of the military has its own selection process, so check their recruitments pages for up-to-date requirements.
Complete the necessary GCSEs and A levels, or equivalent, to meet entry standards.
Focus on achieving strong grades, particularly in Science-related subjects. If you are interested in becoming a nurse, you will likely need to pursue A levels (or equivalent) and then apply for a nursing degree, which may be sponsored by the military.
Gain experience through volunteering, first aid courses, or part-time healthcare work.
Volunteering with St John Ambulance or the Red Cross, or taking part in school first aid clubs, can help you build practical skills and show your commitment to healthcare. Part-time work in care or healthcare settings can also provide valuable experience.
Submit an application to your chosen branch of the military for a medic or nurse role.
Applications can be completed online. You will need to pass medical, fitness, and aptitude assessments, as well as interviews. Be prepared for a rigorous selection process including background checks and references.
Attend initial military training followed by specialist healthcare training.
All recruits complete basic military training, which covers discipline, teamwork, and physical fitness. After this, medics undergo further training in medical care, trauma response, and field medicine. Nursing candidates may undertake their nursing degree (sometimes sponsored by the military) combined with military training.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Medic/Nurse (Military). Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
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A Medic/Nurse (Military) primarily provides medical care within a military context, similar to a soldier who operates in a military environment. Both roles require discipline, teamwork, familiarity with military procedures, and a focus on supporting the overall mission of the armed forces.
You can get into this job through:
You can apply to join the army through an HM Forces Serviceperson Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship.
You apply directly to the army to find the best apprenticeship route for you. This will depend on your qualifications and which service role you're interested in, for example, engineering, health or logistics.
You can join the Army Reserve to get experience of what life is like in the regular army. You'll also learn new skills at the same time.
You'll need to:
If you're between 12 and 18 years old, you can join the Army Cadet Force.
You can apply directly to join the army. You do not need any specific qualifications unless you're applying for a technical role like engineering or communications.
You'll also need to be:
If your application is accepted, you'll be invited to talk to someone at your local army careers centre about the opportunities available to you. You'll then attend a 2-day assessment, which includes medical and fitness tests.
You'll find more information about becoming a soldier from Army Careers.
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