Teenagers to learn discipline with cadets

More teenagers from state schools will join cadet forces to learn discipline and respect, ministers announced today.

In London state schools will send pupils to nearby private schools to join their cadet programmes over the next year. Pupils will learn first aid, take part in adventurous training and navigate assault courses. Schools Minister Lord Adonis told the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference: "Cadets can be a real force for good in our schools.

"The experience provides not only fun, healthy activities for young people but they also encourage valuable personal attributes, help to build skills and foster confidence, self-reliance, initiative, resourcefulness, loyalty and a sense of service to others.

"This initiative is another example of the emerging spirit of cooperation between state and independent schools."

Defence Minister Derek Twigg said the cadet system taught children "discipline, respect and professionalism". There are about 130,000 cadets supported by 25,000 adult volunteers in 3,000 towns and cities across Britain.

The partnerships so far are: St Dunstan's College, Catford and St Matthew Academy, Lewisham; Reed's School, Cobham and Hinchley Wood School, Esher. Three more independent schools have signed up: Aldenham, City of London and Whitgift.