PUPILS in Preston are signing up to join the army one day a week while studying for their GCSEs.

Army Way of Life was launched yesterday (Wednesday) at Fulwood Barracks, Watling Street Road, and aims to put year 11 students throughsthe recruitment process.

There are 120 places in Lancashire, where it is being run exclusively, and already youngsters from Christ The King RC High School, Lawrence Avenue, and Ribbleton Hall High School, Ribbleton Hall Drive have signed up.

Pupils went through an interview to secure a place on the course which runs until March and, if they successfully complete their military studies, they will be offered a job in the army.

The youngsters will be trained every Wednesday under the supervision of Major Jimmy Hill, who will ensure that they experience everything, from communal living to physical training.

Sergeant Darren North, who will be teaching pupils from Preston, said: "We are working very closely with teachers and if the students' academic work slips then they're off the course." Towards the end of the project, students will be given a test to see what jobs they are suitable for and then advised through videos and briefings.

Headteacher of Christ the King RC High in Frenchwood, Gus Van Cauwelart, said: "It's great for pupils self-esteem and confidence. It's a tough day each week but can prove very valuable to the pupils who may seek a career in the Army."

Ten young people from Ribbleton Hall High School will take part including Kyle Keighley, April Ainsworth and Jordon Hodgson.

April said: "I want to find out what the army is like. I'm not sure what I want to do yet."

Kyle added: "I really want to work in IT or communications or be a red coat working with big guns."

Senior recruiter at Army Careers Office on Fishergate, Warrant Officer Mike Smith said: "It's not a day-off school.

"Their GCSEs are the most important thing and many pupils will need academic qualifications to get a job."

The course has been developed in conjunction with Lancashire Education Business Partnership.