Dozens of children from a Battersea primary school have completed a six week project aimed at helping vulnerable and disengaged youngsters.

Children in Year Six at Falconbrook Primary School camped out, cooked their food and erect tents as part of the Challenger Troop youth leadership programme.

Challenger Troop aims to improve children's personal development through a range of outdoor activities.

Dr Lin Phillips, Falconbrook head teacher, said: "We were looking for a challenge, something that would be a transition project from primary to secondary school and this seemed to fit the bill.

"The children spent six weeks preparing. They stayed overnight in Kent and camped out, where they had to erect their own tent and cook their own food.

"They also used laser guns and had their faces painted with camouflage.

"For urban children it's a real shock but we have had some very positive comments from parents about how their children are more self-sufficient and more confident."

Having successfully got through the six weeks, the pupils were rewarded, on Monday, with certificates and an opportunity to show off their marching skills.

Henrietta Croker-Poole, who organised the Challenger Troop event, said: "The programme is about getting kids off the street and giving them an opportunity to be self-sufficient."