Leadership, confidence and team building skills are being taught by the Cadet Vocational Qualification Organisation to a group of pupils in Year 9 at Matravers School this term.

The group will work on conservation projects, shelter building and citizenship.

They were recently presented with the uniforms they will wear during the course, and boots which they are expected to keep spick and span.

Taking part in the course will enable the pupils to complete a BTEC Level 1 in teamwork, personal skills and citizenship.

Annette Marsden, alternative provision progress leader at Matravers School, said: “Their first session was a great success with the students already demonstrating a high level of maturity.”

The scheme will culminate with a formal graduation ceremony, which the students will plan and create. A second group of students will also be invited to take part in the course in the summer term.