This fully-referenced briefing summarises key elements of military involvement in education and youth activities in the UK and the main concerns this raises. It covers the defence industry as well as the armed forces and Ministry of Defence.

It covers careers and curriculum visits, military ethos and cadets in schools, sponsorship by military interests, the Military Covenant, military involvement in other youth activities and regional differences.

It raises concerns around recruiting activities in school, child welfare issues, the unrepresentative portrayal of the armed forces, weapons in schools, the need for balance in teaching controversial issues, the lack of balance with other providers, the lack of parental consultation and policy scrutiny, concerns around targeting disadvantage and prioritising over other youth activities and peace education, and marginalising individuals and groups.

It summarises where concerns about these developments have been voiced so far.