Young people who join a school-based Cadet unit are likely to develop more confidence, resilience and qualifications, boosting their future education and job prospects, according to a new report.
In collaboration with the University of Northampton, the Ministry of Defence has launched a new report, The Impact and Value of School-based Cadet Forces in the UK.
Researchers found that Cadets helps improve young people’s mental health, fosters a sense of belonging, and forges positive relationships between youngsters and adults.
School staff surveyed for the report were also complimentary about opportunities for students to gain qualifications, such as Duke of Edinburgh Awards, BTECs, and first aid qualifications, putting Cadets in a good position when applying for employment or further education.
A transformative experience
Alistair Carns OBE, Minister of Veterans and People, said: “Joining the Cadets is more than just an opportunity— it’s a transformative experience. It empowers young people to build character, resilience, and teamwork. They learn to lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and grow with honour.
“This new report unequivocally demonstrates that being a Cadet gives pupils an ‘edge’ in applications for college, university, apprenticeships and employment.”
Gary de la Hoyde-Brooks is the Deputy Chief Executive of the East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, a not-for-profit that champions, supports, and enables Cadets across the region.
He added: “Employers should take note of these phenomenal people who can add so much value to their workforces.
“With the strong leadership and teamwork skills they develop, combined with their confidence and self-efficacy, former Cadets – and similarly, their Cadet Force Adult Volunteers – make excellent employees.
“If you’re part of an organisation that wishes to find out more about Cadets and their untapped potential, please do get in touch.”
In the East Midlands, there are 35 school-based Combined Cadet Force sections.
These latest findings build on a landmark report from 2021, which found that participation in the Cadet Forces has a positive impact on education, health and wellbeing, employability, lifetime earning potential, and community relations.
