Dean Owen, a Year 2 Level 3 Uniformed Protective Services (UPS) student at Weston College, has secured a fantastic scholarship to become an Officer in the British Army, an ambition he’s pursued since the age of 14. This scholarship not only allows him to complete a university qualification, but also sets him on a direct path to leadership within the Army. 

Once he has completed his UPS course at Weston College, Dean will begin studying a Business Management Degree at the University of Exeter, where he will also complete the University Officer Training Course, a consistent programme involving weekly evening sessions, eight weekends, and a two-week training camp. This will prepare him for the full-time Officer Training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst which he will progress to following his degree. 

His journey into the Army will include two years of officer development, followed by 20 weeks of Regiment training in Infantry. Dean then hopes to join the elite Ranger Regiment, which requires an additional 22 weeks of specialist training. The Rangers form part of the Army's Special Operations Capable battalions, and entry is highly competitive. 

Dean’s achievement is very impressive due to the determination and effort he has invested to secure this scholarship, acquiring his success completely independently based on his own hard work.  

Throughout his college years, Dean has been involved in residential trips, rigorous training, and consistently maintained a high level of fitness to pass the physical assessments. The scholarship selection process was intense, requiring a fitness test, medical screening, paperwork, and participation in a 3-day selection board. 

Out of around 800 applicants, only 150 were awarded the scholarship, and Dean secured his place. He believes his success was due to his embodiment of the Army's disciplines and core values. Dean added, “just from the application process, fitness tests and selection board, it showed me what I was really capable of. I was working at 100% effort, and it made me realise what I could do—and that made me really proud.” 

The scholarship provides a structured seven-year path: three years at university and four years of Army service, although recipients can begin military service straight out of college if they choose. Dean will receive an annual bursary starting at £2,000, with the potential to rise depending on performance during training. Once he completes his education and training, Dean will enter the Army as a Commissioned Officer. 

Dean’s ambition is to serve a full 22-year career in the Army, ideally in the Rangers, and rise through the ranks. For him, the scholarship is more than financial support, it’s the gateway to a meaningful and fulfilling career. He sees it as an opportunity to lead, to challenge himself, and to make a lasting contribution. 

Dean’s story is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with focus, resilience, and a clear career path. His future in the Army is bright, and his journey is only just beginning. Good luck in the future Dean! 

If you’re interested in a Protective Services course, click here.