Had my AC last week so thought as I've found this site so helpful, it's only fair to give a recount of my experience
Drove myself so after parking up, had to wait outside the main gate. I was told to arrive in sports clothing which is so unnatural for an interview. Saw a couple of others clearly there for the same reason as me so got chatting to them. Thankfully they were in sports attire too which was reassuring.
Eventually a Sgt appeared, checked our IDs, gave us our bib numbers with the clear instruction "don't forget it" and we were then told to line up and wait for the bus. Bus arrived from the station and we then were taken to the AC block. After being taken inside, we were told to leave our stuff on a bunk, provide a urine sample (pot provided!) then line up outside.
At this point, we were split into two. My section were given a briefing (we were given our numbered bibs at this point - thereafter to be known throughout the day as "Number 4" etc) on the different tests. It was very helpful in fairness. After this our paperwork (educational certificated etc) was checked and we were given a sheet of paper stating which tasks we had to complete. For me, I didn't need the TST (wasn't given the option to do so either) or the maths and english. Others did and their form was marked accordingly.
Following this, I did my cognitive test. It was pretty straightforward so please don't worry about this too much. The only advice I would give to anyone is not to rush! It lasted about half an hour or so. Maybe slightly longer but I'm not sure.
After this I was given lunch and told to wait in the accommodation block until called. In fairness, lunch was decent! Baguette, crisps, yoghurt bar, fruit and bottle of water. Was a good time to be able to chat to a couple of others about what they were there for. Some oldies like me applying to join the AR, some teenagers looking to join the Paras (always the Paras...). There was a couple of blokes there to do their medical only before going to Officer selection which I thought was a bit weird but whatever. I guess it's a way of getting the medical out of the way.
After 30 mins or so, my number was called by the Sgt and I was instructed to go for my medical. Cue a long period of time waiting and then doing my audio, visual, ECG, weight tests before finally being summoned for my doctor's review. Probably was with him for 30mins or so for the most vigorous and thorough medical examination of my life! All good thankfully and I was given the desired green card (I'll let you guess what a red card means) which allowed me to progress to the physical assessment.
Bleep test went fine. Did a much better score than I required (Applying for Corps so quite a bit lower). Was amazed how poorly some of the others seemed to perform. Put it this way, it was pretty obvious who had prepared and who hadn't. Med ball throw and mid-thigh pull were no issue so that was fine.
After this we were given the opportunity to shower and get changed. I did (because I'm old and would have stunk of BO if I didn't) but the Sgt was very clear we didn't have to wear suits or anything. So I didn't. I just wore what I was in previously, minus sweat-sodden t-shirt.
After a little wait, my number was called and I had my interview. It lasted probably around 5 minutes or so. Consisting of why my chosen unit, then going through all my various scores. After which it was a "well done and best of luck for your career" and I was out the door and in a minibus back to the main gate!
Overall I really enjoyed myself and found it very satisfying. Be prepared for a lot of hanging around but it was fine. Everyone I dealt with was, while direct at times, very helpful and happy to answer any questions I or anyone else had.
As I mentioned earlier, I was a bit apprehensive about going to an AC in sports clothing (it just didn't feel right) but it was fine. A couple of lads turned up in suits but they were the ones who looked a bit out of place.
Hopefully this is helpful to some and I wish you all the very best in your upcoming AC!
