Welcome to the MOD Youth and Cadets’ website. This website provides information to all people interested in finding out more about those Cadet Forces in the UK which are sponsored by the Ministry of Defence.
2010 was the 150th anniversary of the Cadet Forces.
The Cadet Forces comprise the Combined Cadet Force, the Sea Cadet Corps, the Army Cadet Force and the Air Training Corps. They aim to provide challenging and enjoyable activities for young people living in the UK and certain locations abroad, and to better prepare them for their role in the community. Not only do cadets have the opportunity to learn new skills and engage in adventurous activities in disciplined and well-structured organisations, but they may also gain BTEC qualifications based on their achievements. These qualifications equate to 4 GCSEs and may help them in their future education and career. Adults who volunteer to help with the cadets also have the opportunity to receive useful training and gain recognised qualifications.
This site also provides information on a range of other Youth initiatives that the MOD is involved in and which aim to help children and young people. These include involvement in local community-based projects such as Outreach and the Prince’s Trust which are concerned with deterring those at risk of truanting from school or re-offending. Like the Cadets, MOD support comes through use of military assets, training facilities, and, importantly, a large number of volunteers (civilians and military personnel who themselves undergo appropriate legal and obligatory training). MOD also plays an active part within schools and colleges in delivering curriculum-based education and vocational training, and is continuing to look at ways of how this delivery can be enhanced and expanded.