Young people in Britain will soon be offered the chance of a “gap year” through a new paid program in the armed forces, the government announced Saturday.
Set to launch in March 2026, the Armed Forces Foundation Scheme aims to initially recruit around 150 people to experience military life, without long-term commitment.
The program will give participants the opportunity to spend a year training and working across the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. Government officials hope to grow the scheme to over 1,000 young people, “subject to interest,” the government said in a statement.
Defense Secretary John Healey said the scheme marked “a new era for Defence,” adding that it would open up opportunities for young people to experience the skills and training offered by the armed forces.
The program is aimed at school leavers and young adults under 25, who may be unsure about their future career path. Those taking part will be paid and offered hands-on exposure to life in the armed forces, including basic training and placements that could involve working at sea or alongside specialist units. Participants in the proposed gap-year program would not be sent on active operations.
Continue reading the complete article on the original source
