Soldiering on

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Description

The Army Way of Life (AWOL) is a work-related learning scheme run by the Army Careers Office in Lancashire and the county's Education Business Partnership. The scheme began in 2002 with 44 boys and has since expanded to include 100 students of both sexes. Year 11 pupils to spend one day a week with the Army taking part in a range of activities, including fitness training, assault courses and orienteering. AWOL is intended to give students an extended look at a range of jobs within the armed forces and the key skills required. Children interested in a military career are put forward by any of the secondary schools in the county. Only those medically unfit or with serious criminal convictions are ruled out. The Army uses the scheme to talent-spot soldiers of the future, while students benefit whether or not they sign on after leaving school. With skills such as leadership and team-working assisting them, they will become an asset in whichever industry they join.