Jessica O'ConnorArmed Forces training is of a consistently high standard, but too many recruits are left waiting in “holdover” without structured activity, according to Ofsted’s 17th annual report on care, welfare and training arrangements for trainees and officer cadets.
The watchdog found that all establishments inspected provided good or outstanding training, with no institution judged inadequate.
The Infantry Training Centre at Catterick, Yorkshire, was rated ‘outstanding ‘during an October inspection.
Inspectors praised senior officers and staff for prioritising welfare, ensuring recruits receive effective support while building a strong foundation of military and technical skills.
However, Ofsted also identified several persistent problems.
One major issue is the number of trainees stuck in holdover, where individuals must wait to begin the next phase of training due to factors such as injury or lack of available courses.
Inspectors reported that trainees often felt frustrated by delays, with some establishments failing to provide purposeful activity to keep recruits motivated or maintain their skills.
The report also criticised the continued mismatch in clothing and equipment, with female recruits and smaller male recruits frequently issued gear that does not fit.
Ill-fitting webbing or rucksacks, Ofsted warned, not only hinders training but could pose serious risks in combat situations.
Another area of concern was the deterioration of ageing facilities and accommodation, with examples including leaking urinals and showers with uncontrollable temperatures.
Inspectors noted that such conditions negatively affect both morale and the training environment.
Ofsted’s chief inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver, said: “I am impressed that, in all the establishments we visited, recruits and trainees received a high standard of training and I’m even more pleased to see that they all have very effective care and welfare arrangements in place.
“However, it remains the case that more needs to be done to address the issues we have repeatedly identified with infrastructure, kit and ensuring purposeful activity for those waiting to start further training.”
