Sandhurst Military Academy

The series follows the journey of one intake of cadets, – male and female - through the 200-year-old institution: three grueling terms that turns them from civilians into officers, from followers to the leaders needed for the ongoing war in Afghanistan and beyond. A portrait of the trials and tribulations, the blood, sweat and tears each future officer must endure to prove they have what it takes to lead their soldiers into battle.

Episode 1: First Encounter

In Sandhurst’s 200 year old corridors and classrooms, the great great grandson of former Prime Minister Lloyd George rubs shoulders with Thompson, an electrician from the London underground. Within the first 24 hours of arriving, new recruit Batty, wants his freedom back, another, Darrock has a best friend killed on active service in Afghanistan.

As the officer cadets struggle with 18 hour days, the September 2010 intake are all pushed to their limits. While Miss Eldridge struggles to find a military bone in her body, cocksure cadet Stewart is punished for lacking integrity after exposing his balls during a room inspection. Navigating 50 miles across the Black Mountains in under 24 hours, Mr Chapman leaves the platoon after disgracing himself by 'refusing to soldier' on exercise.

Episode 2: A Matter of Life and Death

During their training, the officer cadets are faced with the reality of their future job, the physical and psychological demands and the moral conflicts it raises.

When they leave after a year's training they will go on to serve as officers in Afghanistan and other future conflicts. To ensure they are mentally and physically trained, the course encourages them to contemplate the realities of conflict including killing potential enemies. Not only may they be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice but as an officer they will also accept the responsibility for the lives of their soldiers. The army calls this the contract of unlimited liability.

Episode 3: Officer Class

The final episode sees tensions mount amongst the officer cadets. With the end in sight, the prospect of being "back termed" is ever present. The Royal Military Academy's image as a bastion of old school privilege comes under the spotlight as the unrelenting pace tests each individual‘s abilities, physical, mental and emotional. For some keeping up proves impossible - but for others the Sandhurst ambition is about to become a reality.