A dozen course members of various nationalities, dressed in their respective military working dress pour over a tabletop diorama. At their fingertips, war ravaged streets. Mortar damaged homes, debris, and miniature figures.
Scattered around the table are piles of ‘challenge cards’ and dice. There is an intense urgency to the men’s whispered conversation. Their eyes dart back and forth furtively - analysing the scenes below, deciding their next move.
These players are international course members from the Defence Centre for Languages and Culture’s (DCLC) English Language Wing. Wargaming is offering them a unique way of developing both their English language and military decision-making skills.
According to Chris Catterall, Senior Burnham Lecturer, and developer of ‘Operation Thunderstrike,’ exercises like this encourage communication, build confidence, and foster teamwork while reinforcing the military and linguistic dexterity necessary for success:
“The highly visual and interactive learning space requires course members to plan, brief, negotiate, and execute operations using English language in real time. This continuous and purposeful use of the target language, combined with problem-solving tasks and collaborative decision-making, results in deep learning and consistently high engagement.”
The introduction of this fully immersive wargaming campaign has brought significant educational value to students working towards STANAG levels 1–3. Delivered within a purpose-built wargaming suite, it supports a wide range of learning objectives, including the development of vocabulary retention, comprehension, and fluency in a relevant and practical military context. It also strengthens critical thinking and tactical awareness by requiring students to react to realistic scenarios and adapt plans in real time.
Adding to the authenticity of the experience are the multimedia elements embedded within each scenario. Briefings are delivered through a combination of video, audio, and text, each designed to challenge and stretch students across the four key language skills of:
- listening
- speaking
- reading
- writing
Mr Catterall continues:
“Course members consistently report that the Op Thunderstrike campaign is one of the most beneficial and rewarding parts of the course they attend. By blending realism, interactivity, and relevance, it is a powerful educational tool that enhances language acquisition and prepares learners for real-world military tasks.”
DCLC is part of the Defence Academy’s International Group, which delivers language, culture and diplomacy education and training to military personnel and civil servants, ensuring successful operations, leadership, and government.