Locations Locations Apply Now Apply now
News & Events

News & Events / MPCT Newcastle: Learner’s transformation

MPCT Newcastle: Learner’s transformation

Meet Jake Chambers, a Learner at Military Preparation College Newcastle St George’s. Mr Chambers has already lost over 30 pounds and has quit smoking in the short time he has been at MPCT, and is aiming to lose 20 more before he joins The Fusiliers.

When asked about his time at MPCT Mr. Chambers said

Before MPCT I couldn’t train to the level I needed as I was struggling with weight and fitness. The instructors here have taken me and made me realise I can do anything I put my mind to. Since joining I have lost 35 lbs in weight and I would never of progressed into the military without MPCT. My application was active for a little under 12 months and no progress was made on my part, now I have passed selection and awaiting a start date. I know how to do all my personal admin and have so much more knowledge about what my role will be in the British Army.

His Instructor Staff Smith commented saying,

Mr Chambers has been an inspiration to other learners and proof that the training we deliver works. With his mind set, Mr Chambers will go far with his life goals.

 

Congratulations from all at MPCT Mr. Chambers, you’re doing amazingly well and keep up the amazing work.

 

Back to news articles

What Fitness Level Do You REALLY Need to Join the Armed Forces?

Think you need to be ridiculously fit before you can even think about joining the Armed Forces? The good news is that you don’t need to be an Olympic athlete, but you do need to be prepared to work on your fitness. If you’re starting from scratch, here’s what you actually need to know. First...

Read more

Could You Survive a Day in the Armed Forces? 10 Things Need to Know

If you’ve ever watched an Army documentary, played a military game or thought about a career in the Armed Forces, you might have wondered what life is actually like. Is it really as tough as people make out? What do you do all day? And would you actually enjoy it? The truth is, military life...

Read more

What to Expect on GCSE Results Day – And Why MPCT Could Be Your Next Step

GCSE results day 2026 falls on Thursday 20 August, with results released from around 8am. Whatever the day brings, it’s worth knowing exactly what to expect and that a traditional sixth form or college isn’t the only route from here. For learners who want to leave school, do something different, and still walk away with...

Read more

What Is a Military Preparation Academy? A Guide for School Leavers

Since 1999, MPCT Military Academies have helped more than 10,000 young people move into the Armed Forces, sport and fitness, further education, or other careers. If you’re a school leaver weighing up your options and a career in uniform has ever crossed your mind – even as a maybe – here’s what a Military Preparation...

Read more

Beyond Soldier, Sailor, Pilot: The Armed Forces Careers Nobody Tells You About

Say “career in the Armed Forces” and most people picture the same three jobs: infantry soldier, sailor, or fighter pilot. The British Army alone recruits for more than 100 roles across seven career areas – combat, engineering, medical, intelligence and communications, logistics and support, music, and HR and finance. With around 182,000 people currently serving...

Read more

Top 5 Exercises to Prepare You for UK Armed Forces Basic Training

Basic training doesn’t care whether you’ve trained before – it cares whether your body can keep going when it’s tired, cold, and carrying weight. Most people need 8-12 weeks of consistent training just to hit baseline entry standards, and longer if you’re aiming for a physically demanding role like the infantry or Parachute Regiment. Before...

Read more