British Army educators helped to bolster training at the Royal Bermuda Regiment through a pair of leadership development courses.

More than 30 officers recently took part in two versions of the Army Leadership Development Programme, delivered by Captain Jack Ren and Captain Eglantine Betts of the British Army’s Educational and Training Services.

While one version of the programme targeted senior non-commissioned officers and warrant officers, a second version of the programme was held for junior non-commissioned officers.

An RBR spokeswoman said the five-day courses at Warwick Camp delivered “tailored training” to help leaders at different levels become more proficient.

She said: “For junior NCOs, the programme aimed to broaden and develop the participants’ knowledge and skills so that they may effectively lead and manage small teams.

“It equipped them with additional tools to better absorb information, solve problems and make considered decisions.

“The course for senior NCOs and warrant officers was created to develop greater professional competence by building on their knowledge, skills and experience. It aimed to introduce and develop analytical skills that can be applied in planning as well as in the Regiment’s operational contexts.”

Captain Ren said both he and Captain Betts had been impressed at the engagement shown by the soldiers.

He said: “They showed both informally and formally in feedback how much they appreciated the content.

“We saw them in the classes constantly raising hands, offering valuable and insightful contributions — these were really to a high standard, especially for their rank. It was a level that we would expect of senior NCOs in the UK.”

Major Thomas Wood, the Regiment’s Second-in-Command and executive officer, said: “The courses are a significant step in providing professional education to the non-commissioned ranks and represent a commitment by the RBR to professionally prepare all ranks for the challenges of leadership.

“It was the first iteration of these types of courses in Bermuda but due to their overwhelming success, it is hoped that they will become a regular occurrence, providing a pipeline of professional education throughout an individual’s career in the RBR.”

Colour Sergeant Patricia Woolridge, who took part in the course for senior NCOs and warrant officers, said participants were challenged to consider broader perspectives when making decisions.

She added: “It helped us understand that there are a lot of things happening that we’re not always aware of, but that need to be taken into consideration when priorities are set by those at the top.”