Drive for state school cadets

MORE cadet units will be opened in state schools in a drive to boost social mobility, the defence secretary announced yesterday.

Sir Michael Fallon said that for too long they had been the preserve of independent schools. He said the units help instil values of ‘discipline and loyalty’.

He announced approval of 31 new units and said he wants to increase the number in state schools from 150 to 500 by 2020.

The schools chosen are in areas of high deprivation and where there are large numbers of children from ethnic minorities. It is hoped the new units will help instil ‘British values’. The programme includes the first unit to be approved in Wales.

Speaking at the Albion Academy in Manchester, Sir Michael said: ‘I want more young people from all backgrounds to have the opportunity to be cadets.

‘Cadets help instil values of discipline and loyalty. They develop leadership skills and confidence.’

A University of Northampton report has found that cadet units increase social mobility and help disadvantaged children reach their full potential. It also said they improved behaviour of excluded pupils on their return to school.