Case study: NHS Cadet Programme 

Neil Wilson, assistant principal for personal development at Waterhead Academy, discusses the benefits of the NHS Cadet Programme

Pictured, a cohort of Waterhead Academy St Johns Ambulance; NHS Cadets undertaking CPR training.

We are delighted that that Waterhead Academy has become one of the first secondary schools in the United Kingdom to deliver the St Johns Ambulance; NHS Cadets Programme. Students will be able to participate in the NHS Cadets programme as part of their whole school enrichment curriculum or through our extensive extra-curricular offer. 

NHS Cadets is a great addition to a young person’s CV and will also help them to stand out in future college, university, volunteering or job applications. The programme will help cadets to improve their confidence and develop sought after employability skills such as resilience, problem solving and teamwork. NHS Cadets also have access to other opportunities for personal development inclusive of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), and the Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award (iDEA). 

Whilst gaining experience and learning new skills, students will build their awareness of volunteering in the NHS and also contribute to supporting their community. On completing the pathway, all cadets will receive an exclusive NHS Cadets certificate and pin badge that can be shared with future post 16 providers and employers. 

Mr Wilson, assistant principal for personal development at Waterhead Academy commented, “To become one of the first secondary schools in the United Kingdom to deliver the St Johns Ambulance; NHS Cadets programme is a fantastic privilege for the Academy and an excellent opportunity for our students.” 

“Whilst undertaking the qualification our Cadets will also benefit from a range of presentations and practical sessions delivered by health care professionals such as doctors, nurses, paramedics and associated specialists within their field.” 

“The qualification will further equip our students with a range of skills and attributes to enable them to pursue health related post-16 education and training courses as well as providing them with the most valuable life skill of all; the required knowledge and understanding to potentially save an individual’s life.” 

For further information about the NHS Cadets programme please visit; https://nhscadets.sja.org.uk/ or contact Mr Wilson, assistant principal, personal development: [email protected]