Ofsted report criticises military training infrastructure
Some military training establishments are failing to consider the needs of female recruits and trainees, leaving them socially isolated and even at risk of physical injury, according to an Ofsted report.
The 14th annual report on the effectiveness of care and welfare for recruits, trainees and officer cadets noted some shortfalls in accommodation, uniform and equipment provided to females.
Regarding accommodation, the report said: "Women are often accommodated away from their male peers.
"While this ensures privacy and security, it has led to some being isolated, especially in establishments where there are very few female recruits, such as at ITC Catterick."
The report criticised a lack of privacy for female trainees at 3 Tactical Police Squadron (3TPS) and, regarding equipment, it said that staff at ATC Pirbright do not ensure all female recruits are given equipment - such as rucksacks - that fit them properly.
"Not only does this prevent them from looking as presentable as their male peers, but poorly-fitting equipment can also increase the risk of injury," it added.
Overall, inspectors found "good" facilities and resources in most establishments but they continued to find examples of "failing infrastructure" which needed "urgent rectification".
"Far too often there are problems with heating and plumbing.
"Too many establishments have poorly maintained infrastructure and are in need of refurbishment.
"This causes much inconvenience and discomfort to staff, recruits and trainees, whose morale is frequently affected negatively by the deteriorating conditions in which they live and work.
"Command teams often lack the authority or sufficient funds to improve things for recruits and trainees quickly.
"Because of poor contracting arrangements, it frequently takes too long for even minor faults to be fixed."
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The report praised the high quality training, care and welfare arrangements that were generally available to recruits and trainees.
But it said: "Too often, Ofsted found senior officers and their staff spending time dealing with the legacy of a lack of investment in infrastructure, or handling poor maintenance contracts."
The report used the RAF Officer Training Academy at RAF Cranwell as an example, stating classrooms have "leaking roofs and accommodation blocks that frequently lacked hot water and heating".
Overall, 10 military establishments were graded as 'good' for the training on offer, with ITC Catterick judged outstanding in two of the key judgement area - quality of training and support; and leadership and management.
Both the RAF Officer Training Academy and Defence Medical Academy, however, were judged as needing improvement.
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The report recommended that all Regular and Reserve force training establishments increase funding to improve accommodation and infrastructure.
It also said military training centres should "ensure that female recruits and trainees are given suitable kit and uniforms, and accommodation that provides adequate security, privacy and facilities".
Amanda Spielman, His Majesty's Chief Inspector, congratulated Commanding Officers at the 'good' establishments this year.
"Their success is indicative of the very good work that so many military and civilian staff do to train and care for recruits and trainees," she said.
"However, more remains to be done to address weaknesses in resources, infrastructure and accommodation, which affect the quality of training and recruits' and trainees' experiences.
"I strongly urge colleagues in the Ministry of Defence to deal with the recommendations from this report to ensure future generations of Armed Forces personnel get the high-quality training, care and welfare they deserve."
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