Staffordshire Commissioner Matthew Ellis met members of the Junior Police Cadets scheme when he visited Werrington Primary School in Stoke-on-Trent.
The original cadet scheme, for 14- to 17-year-olds, was initiated by the Commissioner in 2013 to strengthen links between police and young people and promote good citizenship. The programme later expanded with Junior Cadet schemes for eight to ten-year-olds launched in primary schools across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
As part of the scheme, a group of 10 Werrington pupils took part in five one-hour sessions led by local Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Steve Sherratt during school time, covering areas including road safety, police investigations and anti-social behaviour.
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime Matthew Ellis said: “It was great to speak to the cadets and hear how much they have enjoyed and learnt from the scheme, and I’d like to thank PCSO Steve Sherratt for his fantastic work with the school.
“The heart of the Junior Police Cadets is reconnecting youngsters more widely with the police. It’s about developing young people, building their leadership skills and understanding what it is to be a good citizen through a fun-packed programme of activities.”
PSCO Sherratt added: “This is the sixth course I’ve run at the school in the last two years. They are so supportive of what I do and are always keen to get involved. Matthew Ellis has been a great support to me, so I’m delighted he has the opportunity to come and see not only the latest bunch of cadets but also all the other work we are doing at the school.
“The school suffered some criminal damage last year, when the pond and a bench were damaged. Through talking to local companies, the items that were damaged have been replaced. The school is also involved in a charity football tournament I organise, involving teams from the police, local schools and care homes. So far we have raised money for Dogs Trust and Dementia UK.”
Find out more about the Staffordshire Police Cadets scheme.
