STUDENTS have been put through paces by the army.

As part of Queen Mary's College's Progress Review Programme, the army recently spent the day in college running elite skills training with students.

The day was run by a team of eight Army personnel who were able to run all of the activities outside.

There are currently Progression to Level 3 courses running across QMC's business, performing arts, media, sport and health and social care departments and all of those students were invited to take part in mixed groups.

The students completed a variety of mentally and physically challenging activities with the aim of developing leadership, teamwork, confidence and communication skills and after each activity they could have discussions with the soldiers and their fellow students.

Bethany Ellis enjoyed participating in the 'fun activities' especially as she was also celebrating her birthday on the same day.

Bethany, who is currently on the Business Progression Course, added: "I got to build friendships with students who I didn't already know and, because I'm quite chatty, I found that I helped other quieter students to come out of their shell and to communicate with the group."