Voluntary military service scheme sees 70% land jobs

As a fourth centre opens in Châlons-en-Champagne, Marne with 100 recruits, 70% of those in the first batch in Moselle have now found long-term work or apprenticeships.

In addition, 90% of the young trainees managed to obtain driving licences, which are an invaluable aid on the job hunt.

The Moselle centre has now increased its intake to 350, from 100, and has invested in new buildings and 50 more trainers. The other centres are in Charente-Maritime and Essonne.

They accept French recruits, aged 18-25, who receive board and barracks-style lodging and €313/month. As well as a taste of military life their broad training includes first aid, exercise and driving, as well as work placements and catch-up sessions in key educational skills.