Young people in Gloucestershire are being invited to apply for the NHS Cadets Programme.

The virtual programme, in partnership with St John Ambulance, is now accepting expressions of interest for its new cohort starting in January 2025, offering accessible and flexible learning for 14-18 year olds across the county.

 What is the NHS Cadets Programme?

The NHS Cadets programme provides young people with an excellent introduction to careers within health and care, offering the opportunity to develop essential skills and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare roles.

Delivered entirely online, the programme reduces barriers to participation, ensuring accessibility for young people from all areas of Gloucestershire. The programme will be delivered over 11 months (36 weeks) across an academic year.

Participants will benefit from:

  • Interactive virtual training sessions focused on healthcare skills and personal development
  • Guidance and mentoring from St John Ambulance and healthcare professionals
  • Insight into NHS careers and pathways to further opportunities in health and care
  • A certificate upon completion, which can enhance CVs, apprenticeship applications, or UCAS submissions.

Charlie Presley ‘We Want You’ Careers Engagement & Outreach Lead at One Gloucestershire said: “The NHS Cadets programme offers an innovative and accessible way for young people to discover the diverse and rewarding opportunities within the health and care sector.

Whether they’re interested in clinical roles, administration or digital healthcare, this programme provides an excellent foundation to explore potential career paths.”

How to apply

Expressions of interest are now open for the January 2025 cohort. Young people aged 14-18, as well as schools and youth organisations wishing to refer students, are encouraged to get in touch early as places are limited.

To express your interest, visit:

NHS Cadets – Gloucestershire – Foundation Programme (Virtual) | SJA NHS Cadets

NHS Cadets – Gloucestershire – Advanced Programme (Virtual) | SJA NHS Cadets

Eligibility: Open to all young people aged 14-18 living in Gloucestershire. Cadets come from a diverse range of backgrounds – there is no ‘typical’ NHS Cadet. If young people identify with one or more of these statements, the programme would be a good match too:

  • I’m from a minority ethnic group
  • I consider myself part of the LGBTQI+ community, or I’m questioning
  • I’m not in education, employment or training, or I’m at risk of this
  • I’m struggling with my progress at school or college
  • I live in care, or I’ve recently left care
  • I provide regular care or support for someone
  • I receive free school meals
  • I have mental health concerns
  • I consider myself to have a disability or impairment
  • I consider myself neurodivergent, or I have special educational needs
  • I am seeking asylum, or I’m a refugee.

If young people are unsure whether they fit into one of these categories or wish to discuss something else, they can email nhscadets@sja.org.uk

–         Delivery: The programme is fully virtual, making it accessible across the county.

–         Partners: The NHS Cadets programme is delivered in partnership with St John Ambulance.

–         For more information, contact glicb@careers.nhs.net