A cadet scheme launched in 2013 by Staffordshire Police has celebrated its tenth anniversary, with 7,500 cadets passing through the ranks.

Throughout the ten years, the programme has enabled children aged 8-10 and teenagers aged 13-17 to learn more about their local force and work with local communities on projects to improve their local area in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.

The scheme has also allowed cadets to learn team-building skills, gain experience of working in different police sectors, attend weekly cadet meetings, participate in community and fundraising events, complete training drills and promote crime prevention initiatives.

Over 7,500 8-10 and 13-17 year olds have passed through the ranks over the past decade (Staffordshire Police).

Chris Noble, Chief Constable at Staffordshire Police, said: "The cadet programme has continued to grow year-by-year and the scheme is all about helping to develop great citizens for Staffordshire now and in the future.

"We've seen youngsters over the last ten years, from all backgrounds, who have grown in confidence immeasurably and play supportive roles at major events. This is what being in the cadets is all about – making a difference, helping the community, growing self-confidence and discipline.'

"It's been humbling to see so many cadets come through the ranks in the last ten years and wanting to make a difference in their communities."

Many Staffordshire cadets dream of becoming a police officer later in life (Staffordshire Police).

Jake Pateman, Head Cadet at Staffordshire Police, said: "I've always had dreams of being a police officer and joined the cadet programme in July 2018. Immediately, I felt like I was part of a family.

"I started out as a Cadet, then went onto become Deputy Section Leader, Section Leader and then Head Cadet. In my role as Cadet, I was also a mentor helping out new cadets and guiding them through their time at cadets from day one.

"I'm very proud to be to have been part of such a fantastic organisation, where I've learnt key valuable skills such as: leadership, communication, time and teamwork skills."

Anyone interested in becoming a Staffordshire Police Cadet or would like more information on volunteering as a leader, should visit the Staffordshire Police website or email [email protected].

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