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Written question asked by Bradley Thomas (Conservative) on Friday, 13 June 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 17 June 2025. It was answered by Al Carns (Labour) on Monday, 23 June 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.


Cadets: Schools

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he plans to expand the cadet forces in state schools with limited provision.

Answer

We want every young person to have the opportunity to enjoy the many benefits that can be gained from the cadet experience. The joint Ministry of Defence and Department for Education Cadet Expansion Programme (CEP) has already increased the number of cadet units in schools to over 500, with the focus on improving provision in state schools. Prior to CEP, 75% of school cadet units were in independent schools; now around 60% are in the state sector.

We are exploring how we can increase the size and the offer of the Cadet Forces, both in schools and the community, and have been engaging widely to consider how best to deliver this growth. This work is aligned with the recent Strategic Defence Review which recommends expanding the Cadet Forces by 30% by 2030.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
59927
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Cadets Schools
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk