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With the recruitment window now open for aspiring police cadets in Warwickshire, one of our current recruits has written about his journey.
17-year-old Archie joined the force in 2021. Here he shares his story:
“I applied to the cadets when I was 13 after my mum showed me an advert on Facebook. As this was during lockdown, my interview was on Zoom. I was definitely nervous as I’d never had an interview before, but I soon settled into it and worked to complete the tasks. I was asked to prepare a 30 second speech about myself. I decided to play my guitar while saying mine and I think my musical talent won them over as a few weeks later I was invited to join! I had an overwhelming sense of achievement and my family and friends were delighted I had been successful.
“The first time I went to our Headquarters in Leek Wootton I was nervous to say the least. I had so many questions in my head: Would I be the youngest? Would I fit in? How awful could marching be? I turned up with a face mask on and a large backpack containing my boots. Myself and the other cadets were introduced to the scheme and made to feel welcome. We had networking activities to get us working together and I spoke to cadets from all different backgrounds. Although I was one of the youngest, it didn't matter as we were all in the same boat.
“As part of the programme, I attend a weekly session at Leek Wootton where we work on our policing knowledge. We have talks from police officers and staff in different roles and have had demonstrations from the dog unit and firearms officers. We develop our leadership skills with team exercises and in the summer months play touch rugby and frisbee.
“Every year we go on a week's excursion which is one of the most memorable experiences you will have as a cadet. It teaches us to push ourselves outside our comfort zone while participating in activities such as surfing and raft building.
“Being a cadet has given me many incredible opportunities such as meeting royalty and visiting the security institute. I’ve also been out patrolling with officers around Leamington which was very eye opening.
“Even though I joined as a young teenager, through all the teamwork tasks, volunteering opportunities, building friendships and memorable experiences, I’ve really developed as a person and will bring these new found skills into adulthood.
“Oh and to answer my earlier marching question - you'll get used to it!”
The police cadets is a scheme for 13-16 year olds who live or go to school in Warwickshire, which offers them an opportunity to gain a practical understanding of policing, develop their spirit of adventure and good citizenship. Cadets support their local policing priorities through volunteering, working with partner agencies and positive participation within their communities.
The force has three units – Nuneaton, Leek Wootton and Rugby. Applications are now open until 28 February. If you would like to join or know someone who would be interested in applying, please find out more here: Police cadets | Warwickshire Police | Warwickshire Police