[sassysocks]

Originally Posted by Livia

The government does not "trawl inner city schools" for recruits. I happen to know that it's very hard for the Army Careers people to get into schools because the people who run the schools tend to be left wing militants. You have to have good exam grades to join the army, not anyone can join, it's common misconception by people who know nothing about the modern British army.

It is hardly a bad thing that it is difficult for the Army to get into schools to influence vulnerable young minds. Yes those that get into the forces do need to prove their academic abilities, we don't want a bunch of idiots who can barely construct a sentence protecting our country - but only adults should be expected to make the decision to pursue a career that could cost them their lives.

[Livia]

Originally Posted by sassysocks

It is hardly a bad thing that it is difficult for the Army to get into schools to influence vulnerable young minds. Yes those that get into the forces do need to prove their academic abilities, we don't want a bunch of idiots who can barely construct a sentence protecting our country - but only adults should be expected to make the decision to pursue a career that could cost them their lives.

You talk about influencing young minds like the army go in with a press gang.

So on one hand we're saying that 16 year olds aren't responsible enough to make a career decision to join that army... and on the other hand there are discussions going on to give them the vote?

You can't join up to the army until you're 18 years old and legally considered an adult. You can join at 16 as an apprentice only. But hey, let's not let the army into schools and let the kids have all the facts, or anything. Let's leave that to the teachers so they can give them a really one-sided view of things.