Certainly, headline-grabbing grants for rugby clubs and uniformed cadet groups to deliver resilience training only reinforces those views among some people. However, scratch a little deeper and it becomes clear that there is more to the "grit" agenda than traversing an assault course in military fatigues – even if that does play a part in some projects.
When you look at some of the ingredients for good character as defined by the Department for Education, there is little to argue with: perseverance, conscientiousness, honesty, neighbourliness, respect and integrity are all traits you would want to see in young people. The key to the success of this agenda is how young people are taught to use these skills to confront life's challenges. Going on an outdoor activity scheme run by ex-military personnel may help a shy child become more confident, and is in itself a good outcome. But if the agenda is to really show its worth, it must help disadvantaged children confront and overcome the numerous challenges they face on a daily basis.
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