The Stephen Longfellow Academy P.E. Department worked in partnership with the British Army to link their subject to careers and promote positive post 16 pathways. The Army outreach team were invited to deliver an Army Elite Skills day on 09 February 2024.
Both Key Stage 3 and Key stage 4 students were involved in the day, which included presentations about the Army, followed by practical sessions and workshops. The careers presentations were very informative, students were able to ask questions about different Army jobs and about living in the Army. Furthermore, students gained a taste of Army teamwork and problem solving through a wide range of hands on and confidence building activities that would develop students mental and physical attributes.
Teacher feedback was very positive.
“I feel that the day was a great success, and a lot of students were actively involved during the sessions and learned a lot about the British Army.” Ms Dundas
Students provided the feedback below.
80% of students said the Army Elite Skills day had increased their knowledge of British Army Careers.
80% of students said they had developed at least one of the skills below by participating in the Army Elite Skills day:
- Teamwork
- Confidence
- Resilience
- Leadership
90% of students said they would recommend the Army Elite Skills Day to other students.
Overall, the event was a success. The Stephen Longfellow Academy will continue to work with the British Army to link school subjects to real-world careers and to promote the British Army as a viable post 16 and Post 18 option. The event had a real impact on students, inspiring two Year 11 students to make applications to the British Army as Junior Infantry soldiers. The Stephen Longfellow Academy are following up this event with the Army by taking ten interested students to visit The Army Foundation College in Harrogate for a site experience planned for April 2024.
