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What does it take to be a frontline soldier in the British army?

Who has what it takes to be a frontline soldier? At Britain's biggest garrison, fresh recruits are pushed to the limit - physically and mentally. Only the very best will make it.

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Soldier: Series 1: Episode 1

Episode 1

BBC One - Soldier, Series 1, Episode 1

Civilians get a shock to the system as they train to become frontline soldiers.

Fresh-faced civilians get a shock to the system at the British army’s Infantry Training Centre. How many of them have what it takes to become an infantry soldier?

Every year, almost 3,000 men and women are selected to join the British army’s Infantry Training Centre in Catterick, North Yorkshire. A gruelling six-month course will test them to the limit - physically and mentally. Have they got what it takes to operate as close combat warriors? Are they ready for action anywhere in the world? Only the very best will pass the test. 

This five-part series charts the transformation of one platoon as the new recruits leave friends and families behind. Those who are successful will become soldiers, at a time when war is raging in Europe for the first time in a generation. 

Amongst them is 21-year-old ex-footballer Curtis Dryden from Middlesbrough, who struggles to master the basics of army life. Callum Stretton, aged 17, is one of the youngest in the platoon and questions if he has got what it takes to kill on the front line. Eager to follow in the footsteps of her military family is 18-year-old Olivia Hall-Beakhouse, one of the females who have joined the infantry since frontline roles became available to women in 2018.

The 45 recruits tackle punishing obstacle courses, learn to handle and fire weapons, and undergo rigorous inspections. Crucially, they learn how to kill at close quarters using only a bayonet. Under the watchful eyes of Lt Wahab, Sgt McIntosh and Cpl White, recruits must prove they have the skills and attitude required to make it in the army. How many will pass out as soldiers in six months’ time?

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