A 22-year-old from Caterham has completed his transformation from a civilian into a Royal Navy sailor during a ten week intensive training course at HMS Raleigh in Cornwall.

From day one trainee Aircraft Engineering Technician Ashley Frost has been put through his paces, undertaking a series of physical and mental challenges in order to reach the essential standards required by every member of the Naval Service.

He has been engaged in team work exercises that mimic as much as possible the operations that the Royal Navy is engaged in all over the globe. As well as the basics such as marching and fitness sessions, Ashley has also learned how to handle an SA80 assault rifle, seamanship techniques and how to tackle floods and fires at sea. The course culminates in the passing-out-parade attended by families and friends.

The former pupil of East Surrey College was a cadet in the Caterham Royal Marine Cadet Detachment for two years before he decided to choose a career with the Royal Navy. He joined to do his duty to his country and gain a career in a job that he thought he would enjoy whilst also gaining promotion. In time he hopes to use his experience to train the next generation.

Ashley said: "This course is the base for a 'life without limits' and completing each stage has been more rewarding than the last. I hope to progress up the chain to Officer level and hopefully work on the new F-35 fighter plane."

The highlights of training for Ashley were the weapons training and gaining top score on the ranges on his first ever live round shoot. He also enjoyed HMS Havoc, a sinking ship simulator that rocks from side to side as it fills with water. Recruits must work together to seal the breaches in the hull using wooden wedges and hammers, and then shore up the bulkheads with timber to re-establish the water-tight integrity of the ship.

Ashley's passion has driven him to successfully complete his initial training; his next port of call is HMS Sultan, in Hampshire, where he will be transferred to complete his specialist training. There he will learn how to carry out scheduled maintenance as well as pre- and post-flight servicing and inspections for the Fleet Air Arm's helicopters.

The Royal Navy's Initial Naval Training course is underpinned by nine Core Maritime Skills that are the foundations of naval life and underpin operational effectiveness. Recruits are taught the basics of Naval discipline and customs. They learn about navigation and are given the chance to take the helm of their own medium sized inflatable boat during a waterborne orienteering exercise. With Royal Navy personnel playing a vital role in Afghanistan and other land-based operations, recruits undergo training in basic combat skills which includes survival in the field. Fitness is a key component of the training and is delivered using a disciplined method of military fitness which focuses on developing co-ordination and individual physical strength and endurance. As the course progresses the recruits take part in three extended exercises to test their skills and understanding of the principles they have been taught.

Details of career opportunities within the Royal Navy are available online at www.royalnavy.mod.uk or by calling the Recruitment Line on 08456 075555.