What is NHS Cadets?

There’s a lot to learn from NHS Cadets, even if you don’t want a career in healthcare...the skills are universal.

Faleeha, NHS Cadet

NHS Cadets is a youth programme, created in partnership with the NHS. The programme provides opportunities to explore roles in healthcare for young people aged 14-18 (up to 25 for young people with a disability and/or special educational needs). It is aimed at young people from underserved communities, and those underrepresented in the NHS and St John Ambulance.

We aim to reach a diverse range of young people, who experience barriers in entering health volunteering or a healthcare career.  For some young people, this programme may be the first time they have considered a future in healthcare, and we aim to support them as they take their first steps.

The NHS Cadets Programme is run by St John Ambulance in partnership with your local NHS trust or healthcare provider. It is split into two programmes: a Foundation Pathway for young people (aged 14 to 16), and an Advanced Pathway (ages 16 to 18). 

Information for schools

St John Ambulance are partnering with local schools to deliver the flagship NHS Cadets programme.

School staff are trained by NHS Cadets team and are provided with resources to deliver this 12 month programme.

Students will learn essential first aid and moving and handing skills, as well as drug and alcohol awareness, mental health overview, leadership skills, and alternative volunteering. St John Ambulance team are also providing support by contacting guest speakers, exploring local volunteering opportunities, and providing means for NHS Cadets to achieve the Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award (IDEA) and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE).