In conjunction with the Academy Library, Sandhurst Collection and Sandhurst Trust

By kind permission of

Major General Nick Cowley OBE

General Officer Commanding Army Initial Training Command

and

Commandant of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst

The Steps to Glory is the first volume in a landmark study of the commissioning of officers for Britain’s Land Forces. From the Restoration to the eve of the Great War, it explores how class, conflict and changing policy shaped the initial entry of officers into Britain’s armies.

Have you ever wondered what kind of people seek a commission in the British Army: who they are, where they come from, how they are selected and what training they undergo? Perhaps you’ve held a commission yourself? How do your experiences compare with those of your predecessors?

Having analysed the concept of a commission and the societal position of those holding one before the Restoration, The Steps to Glory traces the evolution of commissioning into Britain’s armies from 1660 to July 1914. It examines all routes, from purchase and patronage to competitive exams. It also considers officer commissioning from the ranks along with those for the militia, yeomanry, volunteer and cadet forces.

Drawing on an exceptional and expansive range of sources from across the UK and abroad, the authors blend established scholarship with previously unpublished material from The National Archives, National Army Museum and the British Library. Their research is further enriched by personal accounts and access to multiple regimental, school and regional collections – including full use of the Sandhurst Collection and the library of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

Volume Two will carry the story forward from the outbreak of the First World War to the present day.

Programme and Dress

1800 to 1830 hrs: Drinks Reception – Old College Main Entrance

1830 to 1930 hrs: Discussion and Q&A session – Indian Army Memorial Room

1930 to 2030 hrs: Book Signing – Le Marchant Room

                             Drinks and Canapes – Old College Main Entrance

                             Access to the Sandhurst Museum

Lounge suits or equivalent.

Tickets

Ticket are price at £20 per head and are available from Eventbrite using this link.

The ticket price will be deducted from the cost of a signed copy of The Steps to Glory.

Additional copies will be available on the night for £40 (RRP £45)

Point of Contact

Simon Shephard at [email protected] or on 07818 720156

The Authors:

Lt Colonel (Retd) Simon Shephard MA. Simon served in the Army for 42 years joining in 1983 and attended Sandhurst in 1991. He commanded a Personnel Recovery Unit and served as a Deputy President at AOSB. Simon provided chapters for The Darkest Year (Helion, 2022) and London Pride (Helion, 2026). He is the chair of his local WFA Branch and sits on the Council of the SAHR.

Dr Victoria Carr EdD. Vic is a Headteacher with a Doctorate in educational leadership underpinned by two MAs. She is also a captain in the Intelligence Corps Reserve having commissioned in 2021.  She has supported her military career by completing a further two MAs. Vic is also a Senior Research Fellow of the Centre for Army Leadership and sits on the board of Women Empowering Defence.