LONDON – The UK government has unveiled a new “Foundation Scheme” that will offer teenagers and young adults under 25 a paid gap year with the British Armed Forces. The initiative is part of a “whole of society” approach to national defense amid rising global security threats.
Key Highlights of the Scheme:
- Launch Date: Recruitment will open in early 2026, with the first cohort starting in March 2026.
- Initial Intake: The program will start with a pilot of 150 participants, with plans to scale up to over 1,000 per year.
- Training Details: * Army: Up to two-year placements, including 13 weeks of basic training.
- Navy: A one-year “profession-agnostic” placement focused on general sailor skills.
- RAF: Options are currently being finalized.
- Non-Combat Roles: Recruits will gain transferable skills in leadership and teamwork but will not be deployed on active combat operations.
- Financial Benefit: While exact salaries are yet to be confirmed, reports suggest they may align with basic recruit levels (around £26,000 pro-rata).
Defence Secretary John Healey stated the goal is to “reconnect society with our forces” and give young people a taste of military life without a long-term commitment.
