A special educational needs school in Jesmond has launched what is thought to be the country’s first police cadet programme for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Northern Counties School on Tankerville Terrace enrolled its first five Volunteer Police Cadets last month as Ruby, Molly, Jack, Joseph and Miley were sworn in at an official ceremony during an official ceremony help in partnership with Northumbria Police.

The programme expands an existing collaboration between the school and the force, which previously focused on college-age learners.

Helen Blakelock, senior leader at Northern Counties School, told JesmondLocal: “By offering adapted support and meaningful inclusion, the cadets programme opens doors to new experiences, friendships and a sense of purpose that empowers our young people to succeed. It allows the young people to feel seen by society and give something back to their local community.”

As Volunteer Police Cadets, the five students are gaining valuable, real-world experience while developing important skills including teamwork and leadership, connecting them with Northumbria Police and the wider community.

“The police cadet programme has provided five of our young people with SEND a safe and structured place to grow in confidence, develop life skills, and feel valued as a part of their community,” added Blakelock, who said the programme had also given the learners valuable experience of applying for the programme and taking part in interviews.

The partnership offers an opportunity for young people who might traditionally face barriers to careers in the public service. Northern Counties, a non-maintained special school, says the programme demonstrates its commitment to its learners and creating pathways for SEND young people into adulthood.  

Ruby’s mum, Joanne, told JesmondLocal: “It’s done a lot for her confidence” and has created excitement in the whole family. “When her little brother put Police Interceptors on [the TV] he thought she would be on it!” she added. Ruby is still using the skills that she developed at the programme as she “caught two people parked on double yellow lines” when she was out last week.

Unlike traditional classroom learning, the cadet programme offers a hands-on experience with policing activities, giving insight into how law enforcement operates on a day-to-day basis.

Practical experiences help the learners build confidence and independence. Jack’s parent told JesmondLocal: “Jack has become so independent and more outgoing since becoming involved with the police cadets. We are over the moon with how far he has come.”