Inside Pirbright Selection – Selecting Future Soldiers

What does the Army look for on day one?
In the first episode of Designed to Lead, Dan Russell heads to Army Training Centre Pirbright to uncover how future soldier potential is identified from the outset.
Joined by experienced assessor Sergeant “Smudge” Smith and candidate Recruit Tobi Allen, this episode offers an authentic, behind‑the‑scenes view of the selection process through both an expert and first‑hand lens. Together, they break down what the environment tests, from teamwork and resilience to values and decision‑making under pressure. More than just passing selection, this is about…