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Army Craftsman Scott O’Neill has just completed his phase one training with the British Army, after being sponsored by the Further Education Bursary Scheme.

The scheme funds students through college who are interested in joining the Army’s many career-orientated training courses.

Scott, aged 19, from Southport, who attended Stanley High School then went on to study at Southport College where he was accepted on the Further Education Bursary whilst studying Vehicle Maintenance, has now joined as a soldier with the Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers (REME).

This was marked by a passing out parade with 71 fellow soldiers at the Bassingbourn Barracks, where they completed their challenging 14 weeks of the Army’s Phase one training to bring him and his fellow recruits up to the basic standard required to be a soldier.

Scott excelled during this training, receiving not only the Best Shot award for his troop but also the Soldier’s Medal.

Major Miller, who looks after the FE Bursary in Merseyside, said: “It is a great opportunity for young people who want to join the Army, to get support whilst studying at FE Colleges where they can be awarded up to £5,000 for four years study”.

Scott will now go on to his phase two training where he will be equipped with the knowledge required to help maintain heavy vehicles as part of his role when he joins his regiment as a fully trained soldier.

The motorcycle enthusiast, who also intends to take his bike test before returning for his next phase of training, said: “I’m making plans on how to use my £1,000 bonus for completing the FE Bursary – I now have two weeks leave and I’m going to put the money and time to good use!”

Southport College works in partnership with The Army and has a large number of courses that are eligible for the FE Bursary Scheme. If you are interested in finding out more about studying at Southport College please contact Student Services on 0845 00 66 236 or visit www.southport.ac.uk

To find out more about working for The Army and for more details of the FE Bursary Scheme visit www.armyjobs.mod.uk/northwest or contact your local Army Careers Information Office on James Street, Liverpool or call 0151 2361566.