Young people from across West Leeds celebrated the completion of a two-year West Yorkshire Police Cadet programme last night (29 September), reflecting on the skills, experiences and friendships they have gained along the way.
The Leeds West Cadets unit began in September 2024, with around 20 young people aged between 13 and 15, representing around five local high schools.
The cadets have met weekly during term time and have been supported throughout by the programme by a dedicated team of eight leaders.
During their first year, the cadets were introduced to West Yorkshire Police and learned about the different roles within policing, while developing an understanding of the responsibilities that come with being a police officer.
Alongside their policing sessions, they worked towards their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award, developing skills including map reading, camping and cooking.
All cadets successfully completed their Bronze Award in September 2025, with 11 choosing to continue into their second year of the cadets’ programme and take on their Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award.
The cadets also volunteered in the community, taking part in test purchasing operations involving age restricted products and helping at a water station during Rob Burrow’s Leeds Marathon.
Their volunteering continued throughout second year, including supporting Pudsey Remembrance Day and the Force Awards.
Over the two years, the cadets have gained an insight into careers across policing and the wider emergency services. They heard from specialist teams such as senior investigating officers and missing persons as well as meeting some of West Yorkshire Police’s partners including West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and Trading Standards.
PC Sarah Berrell, one of the officers from West Yorkshire Police supporting the programme, said: “I’m incredibly proud of all of our West Yorkshire Police cadets and how far they have come. They have worked so hard, challenged themselves and grown in confidence along the way.
“The cadet programme is such a fantastic opportunity for young people to learn new skills, build confidence, make new friends and get involved in their community.
“Seeing the progress they make and watching them become the best versions of themselves is incredibly rewarding, and they should all be very proud of what they have achieved.
“As the current cohort reaches the end of their cadet journey, they can look back on two years of new experiences, lasting friendships and incredible achievements.
More about the cadet programme can be found here.
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Well done to all of you.