This morning, ATC students stepped out into the brisk autumn air to complete their first drill of the day. Morning parade kicks off at 8:15, followed by drills. The students do it every morning, rain or shine, which forms skills that become second nature over time.
“Drills have several key purposes, including fostering discipline, building cohesion within teams, and ensuring the ability to quickly and effectively perform essential tasks in a variety of situations, both during training and in real world operations,” says Andrew Brennan, NZSEG’s Group Operations Director.
Leadership is a core value that keeps the process running smoothly. “Students are also often rotated into leadership roles during drills,” says Matangi Aerenga, ATC Tutor. “This develops confidence and teaches them how to lead by example, take initiative, and accept responsibility.” When new intakes start, those who’ve already been through it step up to teach them the basics, creating a network of knowledge.
Iona Togipau, another tutor at ATC, appreciates drills for the connection to the demands of uniformed services — “The aim is to produce a soldier who is proud, alert, and obedient which provides the basis of teamwork.”
“It all comes down to choice — where you want to be is up to you. Your decisions dictate your future,” Matangi adds.
Through daily repetition, ATC students begin to think, move, and lead like the service professionals they’re preparing to become.
