A-School Basics

A-SCHOOL - The new Sailor will attend Navy A School after they have completed boot camp. The length and location of training depends on the specific rating. Navy A School does not have as many restrictions as boot camp, but does not have as many freedoms as a sailor will once they complete training. (A-School Locations & Technical Programs) The Navy calls its job training A school. All Navy enlisted ratings (jobs) have an A school, which teaches you the fundamentals of your new Navy job. If you're in a normal rating, attending Navy A school is very much like attending a regular college program, in that after class you can go play, assuming that you haven't been assigned to any extra duties (such as watch After graduation from A school, a few new sailors attend C school, while most are assigned to their first ship or permanent duty station. (read more about RATES)
C-SCHOOL - is advanced training within your rating (job). For example, if you attended A school for general computer maintenance, it may be followed with C school to teach you how to work on a specific complicated computer system. Being chosen for C school means that you have proven that you're qualified to be trained in an advanced area of the job. (From Basic Training for Dummies, copyright © 2011 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey. Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.)

PHASES -As sailors gradually move through A School and complete different phases, their restrictions are slowly lifted and liberties are increased. Navy A School will teach functions related to rating job duties, but also ensure that sailors meet satisfactory physical requirements, appearance requirements and academic standards. (read more on Phases)
WATCH STANDING - The Navy places vast trust and responsibility in the hands of new recruits. Warfighting teams cannot function without them. Student watches shall be maintained when possible. The goal is to emulate the shipboard environment, teaching principles of responsibility, authority, and teamwork. Sailors must devote time to learning the skills that will enable them to qualify as watchstanders.
PHYSCIAL FITNESS - All training commands shall schedule and complete a minimum of three one-hour periods per week of physical exercise. Students onboard greater than 20 weeks will have an official Physical Readiness Test conducted in accordance with OPNAVINST 6110.1.
INSPECTIONS - Inspections are an important, fundamental part of the Navy. They are not merely a traditional or ceremonial drill, but fulfill a vital function, as the means of evaluating the efficiency, morale, and quality of discipline in a military unit.
MAILING CARE PACKAGES - You can now send your Sailor a care package with some goodies, and much needed supplies. We have partnered with a 501c3 organization to help reduct your costs - use Promo Code: BASIC5 and save 20% off your first order. Before mailing big items to your Sailor verify with them first. Learn about mailing items to your Sailor.

A & C Schools