Hayesfield Girls’ School in Bath has been selected to create a new cadet unit as part of a £50 million Government scheme, one of just 25 in the country chosen to be part of the Cadet Expansion Programme (CEP).
Cadet units provide challenging and enjoyable activities for students, offering them the opportunity to learn new skills, engage in adventurous pursuits and help them gain vocational BTEC qualifications.
Ben Howlett, Conservative MP for Bath, said: “Knowing Hayesfield School and seeing their great work, I am delighted to hear that the Government has selected them for their Cadet Expansion Programme.
“This will give children from often deprived backgrounds a great opportunity to succeed.
“As we look to tackle the problems surrounding child poverty in Bath, programmes like this will make a massive difference.”
Michael Evans, cabinet member for children’s services at Bath and North East Somerset Council, said: “It is wonderful news that Hayesfield Girls’ School is setting up a cadet unit with funding help from the Government.
“This generation is aware that joining the cadets is not in any way a commitment to a military career, but rather a route to exciting and horizon-widening experiences enabling you to develop life skills which equip you in any area of employment or indeed life.
“Hayesfield is not the first Bath and North East Somerset school to join in this excellent, inclusive programme, and to the benefit of our students it will surely not be the last.”
The CEP programme is expected to benefit thousands of students, many from less prosperous areas.
It is backed by £50million in funding from LIBOR fines, which pays for set-up costs, the students’ uniforms, equipment and training.
Defence Minister Mark Lancaster said: “These new units help deliver on the Government’s manifesto commitment that more students should be able to enjoy the rewards of joining the cadets from every background.
“Cadet forces offer a fantastic opportunity for students, providing exciting new opportunities and helping to instil the positive values of citizenship, responsibility and fairness.”
