Detailed guide: Cadet units: guide for government-funded schools

How state-funded schools can set up or join a cadet unit.

The Cadet Expansion Programme was established in 2012 to increase the number of schools with cadet units to 500 by March 2020.

This figure was derived through provision of additional LIBOR funding and the capacity of the cadet organisations to support new schools in the various geographical areas.

The maximum number of schools that can be supported has now been reached.

There are still opportunities for pupils to join local community cadet units. Details of local units can be found at:

• Sea Cadets
• Army Cadets
• Air Cadets

For further information contact:

Cadet expansion team

Email[email protected]

Phone 01325 340 489

Published 25 March 2014
Last updated 25 February 2019 + show all updates

1. 25 February 2019 Information updated to show the maximum number of schools that can be supported has now been reached.
2. 10 February 2016 Clarified which schools are eligible to join the programme.
3. 6 February 2015 Removed information on the cost of setting up a cadet unit because it is free of charge.
4. 25 March 2014 First published.