Effective November 3, 2016 the NSE is now the standard form of enlistment forpersons joining the Jamaica Defence Force. It requires a one year period of training and development prior to moving on to join as regular Force soldiers or on to careers or pursuits of their choosing. Prior to the introduction of the NSE, persons joining the JDF to serve in a full-time capacity would enlist in the Regular Force for a standard term of six (6) years with the option to re-engage for further periods up to retirement.NSE service is different from service in the Regular Forcein that itis not career service.Instead, it is a preparatory phase for various future careers paths.

The NSE provides continual development over the one-year service period.The objective is to develop a range of life skills and to build soundness of character in order to make persons more versatile and better equipped for success in their chosen career path. The JDF will reserve the option of inviting persons to apply to re-enlist based on the particular vacancies that exist in the Force and the suitability of the individuals based on their qualifications and aptitude, as well as their performance and character while serving.

The development mechanisms and rigors of the NSE are designed to make persons very eligible candidates for careers in public sector entities such as the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB), the Jamaica Customs Agency, the Passport Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA), among other public and private sector agencies. Persons completing the programme will earn an NSE Completion Certificate and an NSE Record of Service, which will provide pertinent information in relation to their service, inclusive of any special accomplishments or contribution to the Force.