Leicester Teenager Ellie Watson Crowned East Midlands Regional Cadet of the Year
Ellie Watson, a 16-year-old resident of Thorpe Astley in Leicester, has achieved a remarkable double accolade in the world of youth volunteering. After recently being named Cadet of the Year for Leicestershire and Rutland, she has now secured the prestigious title of Regional Cadet of the Year for the East Midlands. This honour was bestowed upon her following a highly competitive selection event held last weekend at Ingestre Hall in Staffordshire.
A Rigorous Competition Among St John's Superstar Cadets
Ellie was chosen from a pool of 39 exceptional Cadets, each of whom had triumphed in district competitions to earn their place at the 2025 national final. The Cadet programme, which celebrated its centenary in 2022, is instrumental in nurturing the next generation of health professionals, volunteers, and lifesavers. Annually, St John Cadets contribute thousands of hours of life-saving first aid and care, working alongside adult volunteers in communities across the region.
The finalists faced a series of demanding challenges designed to test not only their exemplary first aid knowledge but also their passion for community service, leadership abilities, communication skills, and teamwork. Many of these young competitors have already applied their first aid expertise in real-life emergencies, such as managing a pelvic fracture after a fall or assisting with a potential spinal injury following a car accident.
Ellie's Aspirations and Real-World Impact
Currently studying for a T-Level in Health at NWSLC in Wigston, Ellie harbours ambitions to become a paramedic through an apprenticeship. Ultimately, she is considering a career in paediatric palliative care after gaining extensive experience in emergency medical services. Her practical skills have already made a significant difference; she recently assisted Leicestershire Constabulary by assessing a patient suspected of having a stroke. Thanks to her timely intervention, it was determined that the patient had not suffered a stroke, allowing paramedics to provide appropriate treatment upon the ambulance's arrival. A week later, Ellie received a heartfelt message of thanks from the constabulary, underscoring the value of her contributions.
Voices of Celebration and Future Plans
Following her selection, Ellie expressed her excitement and gratitude: "Being selected as Regional Cadet of the Year is something that I never would have imagined happening. This means so much to me, my family, and my District. I am excited to spend the year working with the other Regional Cadets of the Year and the National Cadet of the Year, and I want to get as much out of this opportunity as possible."
She outlined her plans for the upcoming year, which include encouraging more Cadets to participate in events, promoting Cadet-led initiatives, and engaging in independent fundraising for St John Ambulance to involve as many others as possible.
Rear Admiral Simon Williams CB CVO KStJ, Prior of the Priory of England and the Islands of the Order of St John and chairman of St John Ambulance, praised Ellie's achievement: "Ellie has demonstrated remarkable determination, extensive knowledge, and exceptional skills during this selection event, earning the well-deserved title of Regional Cadet of the Year for the East Midlands. I want to express my congratulations for such an outstanding performance over the weekend and am looking forward to seeing the positive influence she will have in the region as the representative of all the other Cadets."
Representing Young Volunteers and Supporting Youth Programmes
As Regional Cadet of the Year, Ellie will now join a team of Cadets who represent St John Ambulance at ceremonial occasions and play a crucial role in ensuring that the voices of young volunteers are heard. St John Ambulance's youth programmes support individuals aged 5 to 25 years, relying on volunteers and donations to operate effectively. This initiative continues to foster a culture of service and preparedness among the youth, contributing to safer and more resilient communities.
