Northern Constabulary Recruiting for Cadet Scheme - Inverness, Dingwall and Alness

Northern Constabulary is re-launching its previously successful Cadet Scheme to introduce Policing to a new generation of youngsters in Inverness and the surrounding towns.

The scheme, which previously ran between 1961 and 1990, was relaunched in early 2024 and proved very successful and it is now being made available to all school leavers aged between 16 and 17 and a half as of 1 September 2024 in Inverness, Alness and Dingwall.

The latest intake will be open to those living in the city or alternatively those living in either of the two Ross-shire towns. A cadet recruitment Open Day is being held at Force HQ, Inverness on Friday 9 February 2024 at 4pm.

The timescale has been set from that date as the programme takes a minimum of one year to complete.

The closing date for applications is 23 February and there will be an opportunity to meet some of the existing cadets and share their experiences to date.

A number of experienced officers, currently serving in Northern Constabulary, began their careers as cadets, including Deputy Chief Constable Garry Sutherland, Detective Superintendent Gordon Urquhart and Western Isles Area Commander, Chief Inspector Murdo Fraser.

The Cadet Scheme gives its recruits the best possible start to their careers with a guaranteed place within Northern Constabulary following the conclusion of the scheme if desired.

Former cadet and one of the last to sign up to the scheme before its cessation in 1990 is serving PC Angus Morrison.

Angus works at Muir of Ord Police station and yesterday he spoke very highly of the scheme.

He said: “It’s been a long time now since I signed up but I have to say I really enjoyed it.

“As well as experience with the Police we enjoyed stints at Highland and Islands Fire Brigade, Scottish Ambulance Service and the NHS, giving us a broad view of the work of other emergency services and their responsibilities during an incident.

He added: “The Cadet Scheme is an excellent opportunity for youngsters to establish whether or not a career in the Police is for them.

“It not only gives you an excellent start, but it introduces you to life in the Police and all its traditions and procedures.”

“I would encourage anyone who has an interest in joining the Police when they leave school to seriously consider joining the cadets.”

Cadets will undertake a number of placements within Force Operations Centres and with specialist Police Support Units such as Crime Management and Community Safety.

Recruits will also be subject to regular assessment, on courses and whilst on placements during the term of their Cadetship. Their cadetship is fully paid.

Applicants must have unaided vision of not less than 6/36 in both eyes, correctable to 6-12 in either eye and 6/6 or better, binocularly. Very minor defects in colour vision may be acceptable as are those who require glasses.

It is also desirable for applicants to be fit and in good general health. Police forces no longer apply a minimum height requirement. Although there is no requirement to be the holder of a full Driving Licence before joining the Cadets, applicants will be required to pass their driving test during it.

All applicants will also be required to sit the Police Standard Entrance Test, details of which can be found on our website at www.northern.police.uk

For further information about the Cadet Scheme please contact Irene Fox at Force HQ, Inverness on 01463 720318.

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