Young students at Bansole Primary School in Gillingham have embarked on an exciting educational journey as they become part of Kent Police’s Mini Cadet Programme. Led by Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Aimmie Birch and Rowan Cornwall from the Child Centred Policing Team at Medway Police Station, the children, aged between eight and 11, are set to delve into the world of policing over the next nine weeks.

The Mini Cadet Programme, initially launched in Dartford in April 2021, aims to familiarize young people with various aspects of policing while promoting teamwork, respect, and community engagement. During the course, students will participate in interactive sessions covering topics such as codes of conduct, crime prevention, first aid, cyberbullying, and officer ranks.

PCSO Birch expressed her excitement about the program, stating, “These children were so excited to start their mini cadet journey. We will be running hour-long sessions with the children every Tuesday over the course of this term and will be educating them about crime and anti-social behaviour, talking to them about policing and much more.

Throughout the program, the children will also have the opportunity to visit Medway Police Station, learn how and when to contact emergency services and engage in open discussions about right and wrong.

I hope that by the end of the course,” Birch added, “they will have a much better understanding of the police, will understand leadership, and teamwork and may consider policing as a career when they are older.

In addition to the Mini Cadet Programme, Kent Police offers a cadets program for young people aged 13 to 17. This initiative provides volunteers with the opportunity to participate in various community initiatives, fostering valuable skills and experiences.