Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon put recruits to our new Military Preparation Course (MPC) through their paces, recently.

Mr Mallon turned his attention to the programme which teaches basic map reading, first aid and health and fitness, at a special visit to our Linthorpe Road base.

Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon with new Military Preparation Course recruits.

Saluting the course in the Northern Echo newspaper, Mayor Mallon said: “The Military Preparation Course gives 16 to 19-year-olds a thorough grounding in the basics that they’ll need if they are to embark on a successful career in the Army, Royal Navy or Royal Air Force. It’s just a pilot for the time being, but initial results are impressive, and I have no doubt that it will be taken further afield.” *

The course aims to improve students’ confidence, leadership and communications skills – essential qualities even if you don’t intend to pursue a career in the Armed Forces.

Mr Mallon also heard how a scheme called Music and Media (run by Co Musica from Sage Gateshead) had taught young people DJ’ing, pod casting and production skills at Rathbone plus gained an insight into the world of music.

* Read “Setting up youngsters to succeed” (The Northern Echo, Friday 20th April).