"A lot of these students struggle with their academics and the so we use a bit of military discipline not only to help them succeed but change behavioral issues."
This initiative is the only Services Academy running within the immediate Hawke's Bay area and is run in conjunction with the New Zealand Defence Force.
During the recent two-week induction course at Waiouru Military Base, the FSCA defended the overall sports trophy that they won in 2014.
Following the induction course, five students were selected by NZDF personnel, from each Academy to return to Waiouru for a one week leaders course.
This builds on the potential they showed during the induction to be leaders.
Much to his surprise, Brandon was one of the students selected and he went on to win the overall leadership award.
"I was over the moon, its my first ever trophy.
" I couldn't believe it I thought it was a dream," he said.
"My family was so proud of me, my little brother can't wait to follow in my footsteps."
Brandon said he now has a much clearer idea of what he wants to do with his life.
"The course changes you, it prepares you for when you leave school.
"It teaches you how to overcome obstacles we will face in life," he said.
"It's resilience training."
Former serviceman Pita Lloyd said he was not surprised when Brandon was chosen for the leadership award.
"This guy knew how to work, he didn't moan, he just got stuck in," Mr Lloyd said.
The days at the camp would run from 5am to 10pm, with every minute accounted for.
"The course was hard, so many wanted to quit but we all just kept going," Mr Taylor said.
