Hundreds of Teen Cadets Attend York Careers Fair
Hundreds of teenagers from cadet forces attended a careers fair in York, showcasing job opportunities both in and out of the military. Organizers described the event as "unashamedly" about recruitment, drawing attention to the Armed Forces' role in engaging young people.
Cadets queued to speak to recruiters at the York careers fair
Event Focus and Criticism
The Armed Forces have faced criticism for recruiting under-18s, as this age group makes up a significant portion of new joiners each year. However, the event also featured non-military employers, including the Police and Fire Service, broadening the scope for cadets.
Colonel Banks-Cooper, an organizer, emphasized that while the cadet force is not purely a recruiting tool, its charter includes giving young people the opportunity to understand and experience military careers. He stated, "Its purpose is to enable the cadets to capitalise on their cadet experience, get better jobs and get themselves set up for life."
Service personnel talk through career options with cadets considering life after school
Cadet Experiences and Aspirations
Personnel from the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force attended, with Army reservists bringing a Jackal assault vehicle that proved a popular attraction. Shayle, 17, who has submitted an application to join the Royal Army Medical Corps, said her cadet experience helped develop leadership and communication skills, preparing her for military life.
Cadets gather around a military vehicle display
Recruitment of Under-18s
The UK is the only country in Europe that allows people under 18 to join the Armed Forces, with about a third of new Army joiners aged 16 or 17. Enlistment requires parental consent, which can be withdrawn before they turn 18. Col Banks-Cooper highlighted that now is a good time for parents to consider cadet forces, citing benefits like gaining an employment edge in a tightening job market.
A Jackal assault vehicle fitted with a general-purpose machine gun was a popular attraction with cadets
Broader Context and Future Prospects
The event comes amid scrutiny of cadet forces, including recent closures affecting thousands. A poll on the BFBS Forces News YouTube channel found that nearly 30% of respondents see a lack of connection between the military and cadet forces as a key issue. Kate, 14, another cadet, expressed interest in behind-the-scenes Army roles like engineering and communications, planning to join at 17 or 18.
In 2025, the government's Strategic Defence Review recognized the cadet forces' role, followed by a £70 million funding boost aimed at increasing youth participation by 30% by 2030.
Comments
Join Our Community
Sign up to share your thoughts, engage with others, and become part of our growing community.
No comments yet
Be the first to share your thoughts and start the conversation!