Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how many service personnel are enrolled on the Army Officer Internship programme.

Since 2021, the Gap Year Commission has been integrated into the Army Internship Programme, which has provided individuals with the opportunity to experience a challenging and rewarding year with the Army in the role of an Army Officer for 12 months before, during or after University.

The Army offers up to 30 places per year on the Internship programme. 52 different opportunities are provided to allow applicants their choice of role.

Whilst we do not hold data for the entire period requested, below are the number of completions for each academic year since 2017-18. Courses start in September and conclude the following year.

There are currently fewer than 10 active Service personnel enrolled on an internship for the 2024-25 scheme.

Those awarded an internship are paid a spot rate at Pre-Career officer rates and are non-pensionable. These rates are reviewed annually on the recommendations of the Armed Forces Pay Review Body. Internship officers are also provided with an accommodation solution in accordance with Joint Service Policy. Furthermore, any internship officers who become ill or are injured are eligible to receive benefits from the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme.

There have been no recent discussions or proposed changes to the Internship scheme.