Burnley children thrive at Military Academy

One hundred Burnley children have enjoyed a brilliant chance to learn a new set of unique skills at a special summer Military Academy.
(From left to right):UK Military School's Sam Taylor and Greg Dennings; Alicia Foley; Ellie Small; Jake Pennington; Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw; Warburtons' Gary Dugdale; and Fiona Crutchley, from Lancashire County Council.(From left to right):UK Military School's Sam Taylor and Greg Dennings; Alicia Foley; Ellie Small; Jake Pennington; Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw; Warburtons' Gary Dugdale; and Fiona Crutchley, from Lancashire County Council.
(From left to right):UK Military School's Sam Taylor and Greg Dennings; Alicia Foley; Ellie Small; Jake Pennington; Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw; Warburtons' Gary Dugdale; and Fiona Crutchley, from Lancashire County Council.

Over the period of a month, two groups of lucky children took part in the enticing summer camp as they worked with ex-British soldiers from the UK Military School, using the notoriously disciplined principles of the armed forces to take part in a wide spectrum of activities, from assault courses to learning about military weapons.

The academy provided a fantastic educational experience that not only offered a learning experience but also helped to promote a healthy lifestyle and encouraged the local youngsters to work hard and try their best to achieve their goals.

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The project is part of a range of initiatives in South West Burnley to raise aspirations for the local young population in the area, with funding provided by Calico Homes, the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner, Burnley Borough Council, and Lancashire County Council, with further support coming from Engie and Warburtons.

“The Military Academy went really well,” said Alicia Foley, Calico’s community involvement advisor. “All the children who took part really seemed to appreciate the opportunity to learn about discipline, and to take part in activities that they otherwise wouldn’t have had the chance to.

“The camp was also a great chance for children to make friends and engage with other young people in their neighbourhood, and helped to keep them occupied and out of trouble during the long summer break.”

Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, said: “It is great to see initiatives like this working to help young people, their families and the wider community. The money I provided has helped build confidence among these young people, giving them something to do over the summer and reducing anti-social behaviour in the area.

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“This project fits in with our early action approach in Lancashire, working to prevent and resolve issues before people reach crisis point, and credit must go to the work of those involved who have made such a positive contribution in the community.”

Councillor Lian Pate, Burnley Council’s executive member for community services, said: “It’s great to see this kind of scheme happening in Burnley. I’m sure all the young people who took part came away having learned some important lessons for life.

“Burnley Council was happy to support a scheme that instils confidence, discipline and other skills in our young people.”