Defence Pathways

Powerful pathways for students aiming for careers across the Army, Royal Navy, RAF and the wider Defence sector.

The Defence & Military Sector Is Growing

The UK Defence and Military sector is expanding rapidly, opening exciting opportunities for young people who want dynamic, future‑focused careers.

At Farnborough College of Technology, we prepare learners with the technical skills, behaviours and confidence needed across the Army, Royal Navy and RAF.

telecommunications dish with solar flair background

The College is an approved provider of the MOD’s Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) Scheme which promotes lifelong learning amongst members of the Armed Forces.

Where Could a Career in Defence Take You?

Engineering

Aerospace, naval, mechanical, operations & weapons systems are the cornerstones of the defence and military sector

Digital & Cyber

Cybersecurity, research and development, networking, and AI are more important than ever

T Levels

Construction, Engineering & Manufacturing, Digital, Science

Uniformed Protective Services

Preparation for military and protective roles

Construction

Construction materials technician, design draughtsman, joiners, carpenters, bricklayers and painters are all needed in the defence and military sector

Emerging Opportunities

Logistics, medical resilience, training & leadership, procurement and supply chain management, infrastructure are all growing areas

Thousands of new defence roles are expected by 2030.

Government’s Defence Industrial Strategy

Introducing Our Defence & Military Pathway

Launching for the 2026 intake, our pathway provides technical knowledge, practical experience, and develops the qualities that defence employers value – teamwork, discipline, communication, leadership and confidence.
Open to students studying:

Engineering (Mechanical, Operations, Welding or Manufacturing)
T Levels in Construction, Engineering, Digital & Science
Networking & Cybersecurity
Uniformed Protective Services
HTQs in relevant technical fields

What the Pathway Includes

Students will have the opportunity to develop their physical fitness, resilience and overall wellbeing as a fundamental part of these courses.

Physical training focuses on core strength, cardiovascular fitness, endurance and teamwork, helping students to understand the physical standards expected in military and defence careers. These skills are essential not only for entry and selection processes, but also for building confidence, discipline and a healthy lifestyle that supports long‑term career success in demanding environments.

Defence Insight Days are designed to broaden learners’ understanding of careers across the armed forces and wider defence sector. These sessions include talks, workshops and practical activities exploring roles in engineering, logistics, cybersecurity, leadership and operations. Defence Insight Days help students make informed career decisions, understand entry routes and expectations, and gain valuable insight into the skills, behaviours and values required for success in defence‑related professions.

Similar to Insight Days, students also have the opportunity to take part in taster sessions designed to introduce them to the roles and career options within the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. These sessions include interactive activities, briefings on training and career progression, and insights into the required values, skills and behaviours across the armed forces. This helps students explore different services, build motivation and confidence, and gain a clearer understanding of the pathways available into the sector.

Learners take part in leadership and team‑building activities designed to build initiative, communication and problem‑solving skills. Through practical challenges and group tasks, students develop the teamwork, responsibility and resilience valued within the industry.

Thanks to the proximity of the College to military bases and the famous Farnborough Airport, visits and excursions include trips military museums and heritage sites, as well as working military bases, including the Aldershot Garrison, Farnborough Airshow and Farnborough Air Sciences Trust, along with careers events or open days hosted by the Army, Royal Navy or Royal Air Force.

These sessions explore areas such as communication, problem‑solving, professionalism and workplace expectations, helping students develop industry‑relevant skills that support progression into military and defence‑related careers.

The sessions also may include talks from external speakers who share a wealth of first-hand experience with students and provide insider insights into the industry.