Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment she has made of the potential merits of introducing Cadet Forces into secondary schools within the state sector.

Cadets can be an excellent opportunity for enrichment and welcomes the Ministry of Defence (MoD)-commissioned University of Northampton report which explores the benefits of a cadet unit in schools, which is available here: https://www.northampton.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/institute-for-social-innovation-and-impact-cadets-report-2025.pdf. Cadet Forces offer challenging and enjoyable activities for young people, preparing them to play an active part in the community while developing valuable life skills.

The department works jointly with MoD on the Cadet Expansion Programme, which was launched to establish new cadet units in English state secondary schools. We will continue to work with MoD as they implement the Strategic Defence Review’s recommendation to expand in-school and community-based Cadet Forces.

We will also work with MoD on the Strategic Defence Review’s recommendation to increase understanding of the Armed Forces in schools in a way that creates opportunities.

MoD will review existing support with us over the coming months and in consultation with teachers. Schools themselves are best placed to determine how to use this available support.