What makes Veteran Education Group different?
Beyond the four British Values, VEG instructors can bring several distinctive strengths into schools.
- Authentic experiences: Veterans can share appropriate real-life examples of leadership, teamwork, difficult decisions and responsibility.
- Positive role models: Instructors can demonstrate professionalism, patience, integrity, self-discipline and respect through their everyday conduct.
- Practical learning: Military-inspired command tasks, stretcher challenges, navigation and team exercises allow pupils to experience values rather than simply read about them.
- Confidence and resilience: Activities can encourage children to overcome challenges, take responsibility and recognise their own capabilities.
- Consistency and structure: Clear expectations, supportive routines and constructive feedback help pupils understand the importance of fairness and accountability.
1. Democracy – Understanding Leadership and Having a Voice.
Military personnel understand the importance of leadership, communication, consultation and working towards shared objectives. Veterans can demonstrate that good leadership involves listening to others, considering different opinions and making fair decisions.
2. Rule of Law – Respect, Responsibility and Accountability.
Armed Forces personnel operate within established legal frameworks, regulations and professional standards. This provides practical experience of why rules matter, how they protect individuals and why everyone must be accountable for their actions.
3. Individual Liberty – Confidence, Independence and Choice.
Military experience can develop confidence, initiative, problem-solving and the ability to make decisions under pressure. Veterans can use these experiences to encourage pupils to express themselves, make informed choices and recognise that freedom comes with responsibility.
4. Mutual Respect and Tolerance – Working Together Despite Differences.
Many veterans have experience working with people from different cultures, nationalities, religions and backgrounds, both in the UK and during overseas deployments. These experiences can provide meaningful examples of cooperation, understanding and treating others with dignity.
An important point is that military service does not automatically make someone an effective educator. The greatest value comes when our instructors combine their experience with appropriate training, safeguarding awareness, an understanding of SEND and child development, and inclusive teaching practices.
