Students from the College’s Uniformed Public Services and Military Preparation courses spent a week at Rolleston Camp on a Look at Life course, courtesy of the British Army Employability team.

The purpose of the course was to introduce students to life in the Armed Forces. Activities included leadership and teamwork tasks, military skills including cooking and living in the field, patrolling, section attacks, stalking and Physical Training.

On day four the group travelled to Larkhill Gun Park and Warminster Garrison to engage with soldiers from the Royal Artillery, The Rifles, Parachute Regiment and Royal Marines to expand their knowledge. They also had the opportunity to visit The Infantry and Small Arms School Corps Weapons Collection, which houses a number of small arms including Napoleon’s Muskets.

The students returned to camp for a presentation from the Army Careers Office who then, along with the Army’s Outreach team who represent various regiments and cap badges, spoke to the students individually about possible career pathways.

As a result of their hard work during the week, the students have each achieved 55 hours of work experience and enrichment activities and produced evidence for specific units on their course.

The final morning saw all the students receiving certificates marking their achievements and participation. Top student certificates went to Jo Nicholls and Lily-Mae Hatton and most improved student went to Pawel Wojcik.

This was a fantastic opportunity for the students and gave them a clear insight into Life in the Army.

Feedback from the students has been overwhelmingly positive;

“This rare opportunity became one of the greatest experiences of my life. Everything was great and I felt like a valued team member. I would definitely do it again!” Jo Nicholls

Information about Uniformed Public Services and Military Preparation courses at Bridgwater & Taunton College can be found here or by calling 01278 441234.