Northamptonshire Emergency Cadets – enrolments

Northamptonshire Emergency Services Cadets are a new Directly Licensed Centre within the Central England Region, we contacted Clive Skingsley, a volunteer with NESC who has taken on the role of DofE Manager, to find out what encouraged the Emergency Services Cadets to take out a license to deliver the DofE and how Clive is finding enrolling his first Cohort.

Clive says “I have personally been involved with the DofE for many years and seen the benefits it brings, therefore, I raised the idea with my Unit Commander because I feel that having the cadets involved gives them an opportunity to achieve something that is recognized not only by the Emergency Services but everyone else”

Clive has started with a small group of 16 Bronze participants within Northampton, with plans to offer the Award to the rest of the County Cadets and expanding to levels. Clive says, “We are encouraging the participants to challenge themselves and go beyond the cadets and achieve success and recognition within the wider community.”

We asked Clive how enrolling and delivery has been due to COVID-19, he replied “This has been a challenge for us to get started during this time but, we have succeeded by the hard work and commitment of our Leaders to put together a virtual Launch to our cadets and parents. Build up the skills of our leaders through the online training provide by DofE and continue to provide online sessions to participants, check on their progress through online discussion and support.”

Clive concludes “I believe the DofE will give the cadets further opportunity to develop themselves and build confidence in different ways as well as showing to others their commitment to participate in activities and be more independent. It will allow them to stand out amongst others and hopefully encourage others within Northamptonshire Emergency Services Cadet programme to join the DofE and enjoy the benefits.”