SOLDIERS stationed at Aldershot have been helping pupils at Langford Budville Primary School with their study of the Romans.

Combat medical technicians LCpl Smith and Pte Arnold, from Keogh Barracks, provided a range of hands-on activities on Friday to help the Key Stage 2 children compare modern and ancient warfare.

The youngsters had the chance to see modern army uniform and safety equipment such as helmets and body armour, and learn about how army medicine has evolved and how medics operate in the field.

Pupils also learned about how modern soldiers looked after themselves in the field – sleeping, eating and camouflage, tasted basic food rations and saw replica weapons.

Children have been learning about the Roman Army’s skills, training and kit with senior teacher Claire Halstead.

She said: “We are so grateful to the Army for allowing these soldiers to visit us and help us appreciate what expert soldiers the Romans were.

“The children have discovered some striking similarities as well as obvious differences, and have thoroughly enjoyed learning about how our modern soldiers still use some principles invented by the Romans today.

“A massive thank you goes to LCpl Smith for organising such a brilliant learning opportunity for the children. Who knows – we may even have sparked an interest in some students to think about joining the cadets or consider a future career in the forces.”