What you need to know
The Armed Forces have an international presence – and whether they’re assisting with humanitarian missions or working alongside foreign military units, Service people need to have the language skills to match.
It is important that you have read and understood JSP 752 Tri-Service Regulations for Expenses and Allowances (chapter 13.6) before proceeding.
As part of the Defence requirement to develop foreign language skills, there are a number of opportunities and incentives for you to develop your language skills in the following roles:
- Defence Engagement - support to Defence Engagement activities can include job roles in Embassies and Loan Service Teams, supporting Short Term Training Teams and overseas exercises
- Defence Intelligence - there are a number of roles within the Defence Intelligence community which actively utilise language skills to support current and ongoing operations
- Operations - there is a continued requirement for foreign language skills in a wide range of UK, NATO and overseas operational commitments
If you are in one of these roles there are a number of ways to develop your language skills, including e-learning and structured courses.
If you’re not in a sponsored post or trade group that requires formal language training, there are still opportunities for you to brush up on your language skills. Service and other libraries are well stocked with language books, CDs and DVDs. You can also use Standard Learning Credits and Enhanced Learning Credits to fund paid-for training.
You may also be eligible to receive a financial award under the Foreign Language Financial Award schemes if you are able to demonstrate an appropriate level of proficiency in a foreign language by completing a MOD Language Assessment Board (MODLAB) multi level assessment.
You could also qualify to receive the DOLAS Deployed or Non-Deployed Active Use Allowance.
What you need to do
Speak to the staff at your local Education or Learning Centre, which can be found at the following link: https://www.modelc.com/Account/Login/MBR
