A GOVERNMENT-BACKED review has recommended that pupils in state schools should be encouraged to join cadet forces. While some may object to this, what if this idea was modified?

In the later years of a pupil's time at school, representatives of various employers are invited to schools to talk to pupils in order to recruit them as future employees.

But what if - shortly before school pupils reach their teen years - representatives from various local organisations visit schools and make pupils aware of what's available within their area?

Teenagers getting involved in organisations such as the Army or Air Cadet Corps, St John's Ambulance, Scouts, etc, will make new friends, learn self-discipline, self-confidence, gain respect from the public and provide a positive focus for their out-of-school time which will steer them away from a path which often leads to gangs, drugs and crime.

CT Riley, Spennymoor, Co Durham