Defence Secretary Michael Fallon announces plan to put army cadet units in state schools

Ministry of Defence says cadet forces contribute to increasing social mobility and help improve attendance and behaviour among pupils who have previously been excluded

There are currently over 400 cadet units across England but only around a third are stationed in state schools (Getty)

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon has announced an expansion of cadet units in state schools across the UK, claiming there is evidence such schemes boost social mobility.

Ahead of his speech to the Conservative party conference, Sir Michael said he had approved 31 new units across the country and the first in Wales, as part of the Tory drive to increase the number of cadet forces in state schools to 500 by 2020.

The aim of an army cadet force is to instil a series of “values and standards” in participants, including courage, discipline, integrity, loyalty and respect for others. There are currently over 400 cadet units across England but only around a third are stationed in state schools.

According to the Department for Defence, the cadet units will be focused on schools in areas of high deprivation and will include the first unit to be approved in Wales.

Citing a University of Northampton study, the department added the research showed cadet forces contributed to increasing social mobility and help improve attendance and behaviour among pupils who have previously been excluded.

While there was no mention of the expansion of the scheme -– championed by the coalition Government – in the most recent Conservative manifesto, the new units being established are backed by £50m of funding for Libor fines levied on the banks.

Addressing students at Albion Academy in Salford, which already has a cadet force in place, Sir Michael said: “I want more young people from all backgrounds to have the opportunity to be cadets. Cadets help instill values of discipline and loyalty. They develop leadership skills and confidence.

“For too long, cadet units have been the preserve of independent schools. But thanks to this Conservative Government, more children in state schools will reap the benefits.”

But Layla Moran, education spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats, said: “Hidden amongst this announcement is the chilling admission that too many schools across the country are ill-equipped to promote inclusivity and help the most disadvantaged.

“Instead of funding new, low impact pet-projects, the government must immediately address the crisis in school funding.

“500 more children marching around the playground in uniform might be great experience for a select few, but will do nothing to help all the children negatively impacted by teacher shortages, poor resources and overcrowded classrooms.”