New path for young Brits to find themselves? UK military unveils new paid ‘gap year’ for under 25s
A new Armed Forces Foundation Scheme will allow young people to experience military life for 12 months with a salary, other benefits and no long-term commitment
The UK government has launched a military gap year scheme to build career skills and leadership in young Britons. Aimed at those under 25, the Armed Forces Foundation Scheme offers a “try before you buy” approach to service. It provides a vital bridge between education and the professional world.
Transitioning from school or university into work is rarely a straight line. Whether finishing A-levels, an apprenticeship, or a degree, many young people hit a crossroads. Finding that first “real” job is tougher than it used to be.
Rising employer taxes and business rates have forced many sectors to freeze recruitment. This includes hospitality, the traditional go-to industry for young workers. This shift has left entry-level vacancies in short supply. While some choose to backpack and work odd jobs abroad, such global adventures are not a financial reality for everyone.
As a veteran, I know how invaluable military skills are in civilian life.
-Louise Sandher-Jones, Minister for Veterans and People
Hands-on experience without the long-term commitment
A new government initiative offers a solution to this gap. Designed for a structured start to professional life, the scheme gives young people a unique chance to develop leadership. Participants gain hands-on experience and a real taste of military life.
According to the official announcement, the scheme gives people under 25 years old an opportunity to see what a military career offers. At the launch, the government highlighted how participants benefit from world-class training while serving their country.
By removing the long-term commitment, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) hopes to attract high-calibre candidates. These individuals might otherwise have overlooked a military career.
“As a veteran, I know how invaluable military skills are in civilian life,” said Minister Louise Sandher-Jones.
She noted the scheme provides a fantastic opportunity for school leavers to develop their potential. It helps them build resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills that serve them for life.
Salary and “live-in” benefits?
While the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has not released a final figure, participants may earn pay in line with standard recruits. Based on current scales, gap year participants would earn approximately £26,000 per year. Because participants serve as members of the Armed Forces, they also could benefit from subsidised food and housing. This means young people will likely have higher disposable income than peers in civilian internships. In those roles, high rents and living costs often consume most take-home pay.
Training for real jobs
The year-long placement begins with standard basic training and moves into trade-focused experience. The government offers placements in roles like cyber, engineering, and logistics. This ensures the skills gained remain highly transferable. The scheme remains flexible; unlike traditional enlistment, it requires no long-term contract.
At the end of the 12 months, participants can transition into a full-time military career. Alternatively, they can take their new skills back into the civilian job market. The government claims young people from all backgrounds can gain the tools to succeed in the modern economy.
Launch timeline and recruitment
The programme will launch its first pilot wave in March 2026. Recruitment will begin in early 2026. The initial intake will consist of roughly 150 young people. However, the government aims to scale the project rapidly to over 1,000 participants annually.
Where to apply: Once live, applications will likely be handled through the main recruitment portals for each service:
- British Army: apply.army.mod.uk
- Royal Navy: royalnavy.mod.uk/careers
- Royal Air Force: recruitment.raf.mod.uk
While the Foundation Scheme (the 150-person pilot) isn’t open yet, the Army currently offers a very limited Army Internship Scheme for those interested in officer training. You can check availability for that specific role on the Army Jobs website.