OKEHAMPTON Army Training Camp last week played host to a group of West Country students who were tested to see if they had what it takes to join the forces. A group of 30 pupils spent last week with the Devonshire and Dorset Light Infantry, under the guidance of Sgt Nick Trivett and the Army Youth Team. The students took part in various activities and learnt about what it takes to become a skilled soldier over five days. Activities included an assault course, survival skills, kayaking and paintballing, all of which encouraged the youngsters to develop their physical and mental agility as well as build analytical skills and promote team spirit. Sgt Trivett said: ?An infantryman needs to be tough, fit, reliable, adaptable and determined and he must be able to fit into a team and want to work for a common goal. Loyalty and a sense of humour are valuable assets, along with flexibility of mind to cope with the many challenges.? Sgt Trivett said the students had learnt a range of military skills, taught through various teambuilding tasks. He said the aim of the week was to ?give them an insight into what life in the Army is really like.? He said the exercise offered the young people a challenging but enjoyable week away from the school environment with the chance to learn some new skills along the way. The Army say a military career can offer the chance to earn qualifications, travel the world and be part of a close-knit team.
