From Wisbech to Westminster – Meadowgate School Cadets meet the Minister

A group of eight Volunteer Police Cadets from Cambridgeshire made the trip of a lifetime on 4^th May when they headed from Wisbech to Westminster to meet Mike Penning, Minister for Policing, Fire, Criminal Justice and Victims.

Accompanied by Volunteer Police Cadet leaders Will Davis, Andy Morris, and Caroline Scully, the Cadets had been invited to talk to the Minister about their achievements. They were joined on the journey by Head Teacher Jackie McPherson, and Cadet leaders Helen Dennis, Anne Hancock and Glenn McHenry from Meadowgate School and Volunteer Manager, Hannah Watson.

The day started early with a long drive by coach to Stratford and then a trip across London to Westminster by tube. On arrival at the Home Office, the Cadets were welcomed by the Minister and his team members, Inspector Simon Corbin and Eleanor Jolly. The Cadets changed into their uniforms and went straight in to an official photo shoot with the Minister. They were treated to lunch while the Minister talked through his role – and then it was their turn to ask him questions – what did he do when he was in the army and what football team he supported – all important stuff!

The Minister then took the Cadets across to the Palace of Westminster and gave them a personal tour – they spent some time in the visitors’ gallery, watching the House of Lords in a meeting (some of whom gave the Cadets a wave) and then headed across to the Houses of Parliament.

The day ended up with the Cadets sitting on the balcony overlooking the Thames – a memorable day for all involved.

Head Teacher Jackie McPherson said:

“What an amazing day! We were made to feel so welcome by Mike Penning and his team. To have the Policing Minister for a whole afternoon and for him to be so inspired by these amazing young people is truly wonderful. This really was the experience of a lifetime for our Cadets and they have done our school proud.”

Mike Penning, Minister for Policing, Fire, Criminal Justice and Victims said:

“Cadets are vital in strengthening policing and helping forces to improve relationships with young people. They bring a diverse set of knowledge, skills and experiences to forces and can take back a deeper understanding of policing into their own families and the wider community.

“I was delighted to meet with cadets from Meadowgate School who are doing brilliant work in assisting the police in crime prevention and I hope their work will encourage others to volunteer.”