Former soldier from Downham helps youngsters develop life skills and enjoy team building in West Norfolk schools

A former soldier is taking his expertise to the classroom to motivate and encourage young people to have fun and develop life skills.

Tim Vaughan, of Downham, was an infantry soldier and served in 1 Royal Anglian on the frontline in Afghanistan and Iraq. He has set up his own business, The Viking Group, which uses a military approach to deliver a wide range of coaching, mentoring and well-being sessions to children and young adults.

His business has three elements – Little Vikings, which provide activities at schools during holidays, Viking Education where military training concepts are used in schools and Viking Fitness, aimed at young people thinking of joining the military but don't know what to expect.

Tim, who named his business after his batallion's nickname, said: "I had the opportunity to work for a special school in Wisbech where there were some young people who had left other schools because of bad behaviour.

"I really enjoyed my time there and was able to engage with the children and build up a good rapport. I realised that my military background was was having a positive effect on these children.

"After working at a few more of these schools within Wisbech I really wanted to start my own business where I develop and implement a programme and deliver this programme one day a week in each school for the whole school year.

"The feedback I have had from the children and staff has been really positive."

Tim now works with youngsters at Ashwicken Primary School, Upwell Academy, St Peter's Junior School in Wisbech and the Cambian Wisbech School offering activities which enhance physical and psychological development.

He is hoping to reach out to more schools to introduce his military training concepts.

The next Little Vikings holiday club takes place in half term week at schools in Shouldham, Upwell and Downham. Activities, including football, dodgeball and kwik cricket are designed to be team-building and fun.

More information about how to book is available on The Viking Group website www.thevikinggroup.co.uk