The Defence Minister visited a school which is leading the way in helping youngsters improve their lives by becoming cadets.

MP Mark Lancaster, who served in the Royal Engineers before becoming a politician, visited Brompton Academy to meet its cadet force, ahead of the announcement that 25 more schools across the country, including The Victory Academy, Chatham, will be creating cadet units as part of the government’s expansion programme.

The scheme aims to promote a military ethos in schools, to help pupils develop qualities such as self-discipline, loyalty and respect.

Former Sapper Mr Lancaster said: “I started life as an air cadet when I was at school and the benefits it bought me, through confidence, self reliance and being more reliable, all helped me back in the classroom.

“It’s a programme that’s doing really well and to come to a school like this and see how much the kids are enjoying it and the benefits that I experienced 30 years ago, still happening, just brings a smile to my face.”

Brompton Academy’s cadet unit was set up two years ago. It was one of the first to do so after the government announced its plan to create 500 school cadet units by 2020.

Year 11 pupil Chloé said she joined the cadet force to improve her confidence.

The 16-year-old, who wants to be an Army medic, said: “I didn’t want to just sit at home doing nothing. I really enjoy going away on camp with the cadets.

“We went to Lydd and went kayaking, canoeing and took part in an obstacle course.

“We went for three days and it was packed of things for us to do. There was never a chance to get bored.”

Richie, aged 13, joined the cadets to make new friends.

The Year 8 pupil said: “All of the cadets are putting a lot of enthusiasm into it and being in the cadets has boosted my confidence.”

Mr Lancaster said: “Being a member of a cadet force can make a genuine difference to a young person while they’re at school.

“I’ve been talking to the teachers as well and they are much more attentive, much better students in the classroom as a result of their time in the cadet force.

“That has got to bring benefit and that’s why we’re so keen on this programme and that’s why I’m so pleased that we’re on track to deliver these 500 extra cadet forces across the UK.”