Westgate School opens first Army Cadet unit in southern England
The Westgate School in Winchester will launch the region’s first school-based Army Cadet detachment in September 2026, offering pupils leadership training, weekend camps and nationally recognised youth development.
The Westgate School in Winchester is set to open the South of England’s first school-based Army Cadet detachment in September 2026, marking a landmark expansion of youth development opportunities in Hampshire.
Staff at the school have completed an intensive training programme to lead the unit, with Sergeant Hurley, Sergeant Barton and Sergeant Sherwood now officially commissioned as adult volunteers. Corporal Luke Plummer, a pupil at the school, has already been recognised for his leadership potential and will serve as a mentor for new recruits.
Key Points
- ✅ First school-based Army Cadet detachment in southern England in recent years
- ⚡ After-school club launches September 2026, meeting weekly on Wednesdays
- 💡 Cadets gain access to weekend camps and nationally recognised youth programme
The detachment will operate under Minden Company, Hants and Isle of Wight Army Cadets, and is designed to complement The Westgate School’s existing Duke of Edinburgh Award programme. Sergeant Hurley, the unit’s lead instructor, said the cadets will provide “an exciting new opportunity for our pupils to take on challenges and share experiences that build resilience.”
| Activity | Frequency | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| After-school club | Weekly (Wednesdays) | Skill development, confidence building |
| Weekend camps | Monthly | Teamwork, outdoor expeditions, leadership |
| Fieldcraft training | Bi-monthly | Problem-solving, survival skills |
The Army Cadets is one of the UK’s largest youth organisations, with over 74,000 cadets and 11,000 adult volunteers nationwide. A 2025 Ministry of Defence report found that cadets demonstrate improved academic performance, school attendance and behaviour, with nearly 99% of headteachers reporting enhanced pupil resilience.
📋 By The Numbers
- 98.9% — Headteachers reporting improved pupil resilience in cadet units
- 94% — Cadets showing better school attendance than peers
Cadets will participate in activities such as fieldcraft, sports and outdoor expeditions, with weekend camps delivered in partnership with other units across the South. The programme aims to foster character, integrity and endeavour, aligning with the school’s broader commitment to personal development alongside academic achievement.
💡 Pro Tip
Parents considering enrolment should attend the information sessions scheduled for spring 2026, where staff will outline the unit’s structure, uniform requirements and the application process for pupils aged 12 and above.
A school spokesperson stated: “This initiative reflects our ongoing dedication to providing enriching experiences that support pupils’ growth beyond the classroom. By integrating the Army Cadets, we aim to inspire young people to develop the discipline and determination needed for future success.” Enrolment details will be released in early 2026.
- Information sessions — Scheduled for March 2026; open to pupils and families
- Application window — Opens April 2026; priority given to Year 8 pupils
- Training begins — September 2026; weekly sessions and monthly camps commence
The Westgate School’s cadet unit is the first of its kind in the South since 2020, filling a gap in locally accessible youth development programmes. Organisers hope it will serve as a model for other secondary schools in Hampshire seeking to bolster extracurricular opportunities.