Cadets

TVP’s Cadets scheme gives young people an opportunity to develop their qualities and skills through a structured programme, enhancing the relationship between the public and the police.

The scheme encourages the spirit of adventure, offering the opportunity to be heard, support your community, and become a fantastic citizen in a fun and friendly environment.

Our aims

  • to promote a practical understanding of policing amongst all young people
  • to encourage the sprit of adventure and good citizenship
  • to support local policing priorities through volunteering and give young people a chance to be heard
  • to inspire young people to participate positively in their communities

Who can apply?

The Volunteer Police Cadets are a diverse group of young people aged 13-18 years old, who have a desire to support their local communities and gain a practical understanding of policing. Applications from 13-16 years olds are prioritised so that they have sufficient time to complete the curriculum.

Application Process

To join, please register an ‘expression of interest’ by emailing the cadet recruitment team on: thamesvalleypolicecadets@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk. Please include your full name, address, DOB, contact details, location you would like to join and a short description of why you are interested in joining.

Mini Police

Introduced in Berkshire for children in years five and six, the scheme gives younger children the opportunity to gain an insight and get involved in policing.

From Cadet to Chief Constable

Back in the 1980s, TVPs former Chief Constable John Campbell began his career in policing as a cadet. Reflecting back on that time, he never thought that one day he would end up as the Chief!

To celebrate his retirement after nearly 35 years in policing, and to help further develop our current cadets, he attended a session in Aylesbury where the cadets had the opportunity to interview him about anything that came to mind.

Here’s how it went…

The National VPC

The Volunteer Police Cadets (VPC) is the nationally recognised police uniformed youth group throughout England & Wales. In Scotland they are known as Police Scotland Youth Volunteers.

All forces work to a national standard, whilst also ensuring local volunteer police cadets operate flexibly in local police forces with individual forces being responsible for their delivery. The sharing of good practice and learning is encouraged at a national level.

Please visit the VPC website for more information on the organisation, as well as safeguarding information and links to partner agencies.