Key skills
The Key Skills module is covered on both the Foundation and Advanced Pathways. It’s an introduction to essential skills that young people will use both as an NHS Cadet and in future healthcare roles. They’ll be given an overview of what they’ll be learning on the Foundation pathway as well as learning about St John Ambulance’s values. They can take part in lots of games to help them get to know each other better. There will also be sessions to develop their awareness of practical skills like moving and handling, GDPR, safeguarding, and first aid which will be useful in future healthcare roles.
Communication
This module provides a great opportunity to develop young people’s confidence and communication skills for a healthcare environment. They’ll take part in practical activities like delivering presentations and preparing debates, as well as considering the importance of communication in patient-centred care. They’ll also explore barriers to communication and how to communicate with patients who have additional needs. There’s a particular focus on patients with dementia, where our NHS Cadets will develop tools and techniques to foster an understanding and relationship with patients.
Leadership and career skills
This two-part module explores different roles in the NHS and will help young people develop universally valuable leadership skills. Through guided research activities, they’ll reflect on their existing skills and experiences to devise possible routes into the NHS. They’ll also learn how to write a great CV and personal statement.
Building on skills that they have developed in the Communication module, they’ll learn what it takes to be an effective and compassionate leader in the NHS. There’s a particular focus on how to tackle common leadership challenges like handling difficult people, resolving conflict, and delivering bad news.
Teamwork
This module focuses on developing teamwork skills. Young people will get to explore theories of team roles, conflict resolution, and different learning styles. These will help them to consider how they interact in a team, and how they can work with others to achieve the best outcomes. They’ll also learn about multi-disciplinary teams in patient care. During this module, they’ll take part in lots of team games to build their self-awareness and skill set, as well as helping to develop strong bonds with other NHS Cadets. In the final session, they’ll work together to plan their own bespoke celebration event to mark the end of the pathway.
Volunteering
This module introduces the idea of volunteering and helps young people develop the skills to be a great volunteer. There’s a focus on setting boundaries, equality, diversity and inclusion, and time management. We’ll also support our NHS Cadets in finding opportunities to volunteer in their local community.
Health awareness
Health Awareness introduces young people to a range of topics, including personal safety, supporting others, and opportunities in healthcare. They’ll explore the diversity of roles in the NHS and the environments they can work in both inside and outside the hospital. Sessions will focus on the core principles of Infection Prevention and Control, equipping young people to protect themselves and promote the safety of those around them. Drug and Alcohol Awareness sessions take this one step further, and will help develop young people’s understanding of addiction, support, and recovery.
Mental health
This module gives young people a comprehensive introduction to mental health - understanding what mental health is, different conditions and problems, and where to find support. They’ll also consider the relationship between social media and mental health, and how the internet can impact wellbeing. Following on from the Health Awareness module, they’ll discover mental health roles in the NHS, and we’ll encourage them to engage in wider volunteer opportunities, like joining Mind’s Youth Voice Network.
