A TASTE of military life has been given to year nine pupils from University Academy Keighley. (UAK)

A group of 25 boys from the school joined the 4th Infantry Brigade at Catterick Garrison for a three-day experience of life in the armed forces at the army’s first "Supercamp".

The camp, which took place during the Easter break, involved the youngsters trying a range of activities such as field craft, fitness, camouflaging and assault courses.

The initiative aims to give young people an insight into what careers the British Army offers, while showcasing positive aspects of army life and widening community links.

It is hoped that the scheme will be rolled out to other garrisons across the UK in future.

UAK strategic leader for behaviour, Phill Allen, said: “These new experiences are great for building a young person’s self-confidence, self-awareness and social skills.

"The tasks they’ve been involved in have challenged their public speaking and problem solving skills, and it’s been a brilliant physical challenge for them too.”

The Keighley students also had a chance to meet Minister of State for Defence, the Right Honourable Lord Howe, who came to see the successful event for himself.

The Supercamp was run by the 4th Infantry Brigade, which is the regional brigade for Yorkshire and the North-East. It saw more than 270 teenagers from West and South Yorkshire taking part.