Police Cadets

YOUNG police cadets “passed out” in front of proud family and friends as the first scheme of its type was launched in Cambridge.

The new scheme, being run in partnership with North Cambridge Academy, will have (Ed: “had”?) 17 youngsters, all of whom paraded at Magdalene College, in Chesterton Lane, yesterday afternoon (September 28).

It follows other successful units set up in the past two years in Peterborough, Soham and Wisbech.

The cadet schemes aim to strengthen the voice of younger people in policing as well as steering those at risk of criminality away from a life of crime.

They also encourage a spirit of adventure and good citizenship and can count towards formal qualifications and evidencing voluntary work for the Princes Trust/ Duke of Edinburgh Award schemes.

The parade was attended by Cambridge city commander, Superintendent Jon Hutchinson, and Cambridge Inspector Matt Johnson, who has organised the scheme.

Insp Johnson said: “The passing out parade was a great day for the cadets and their loved ones.

“This scheme will give young people an important role to play in improving their local communities and getting to understand policing better with first-hand experience.”

PCC Jason Ablewhite said: “I could not be more proud of the cadets passing out at today’s ceremony.

“These young people have been on quite a journey over the past 13 weeks and I look forward to watching them progress as important members of the policing family.

“Their enthusiasm and commitment to making their communities safer is impressive and will serve them well as they go forward in their careers.”

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