Police cadets will be given the opportunity to take advantage of an international development programme under a new agreement between the service and The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award

The two parties have signed a memorandum of understanding to provide training for the award as part of the Bermuda Police Cadet Programme.

Commissioner of Police, Michael DeSilva, who started his career as a police cadet, said: “We are excited for the opportunity to partner with Duke of Edinburgh Bermuda and offer this well-established development programme to our cadets.

“The goals of the cadet programme, aside from serving as a recruiting source, include providing opportunities for personal and professional growth and developing deportment, good citizenship and leadership.

“These skills and attributes have life-long applications, whether the cadets join our ranks or they move on to pursue other careers.

“The DofE will enhance other aspects of the cadets’ training schedule that includes Outward Bound Bermuda and our community service programme.”

Traci Burgess, national director for The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award revealed that training in all areas of the award would start in September.

He added: “Five cadets recently graduated their cadet programme and will have the opportunity to become trained DofE Award Leaders and be partnered with the Island’s five public middle schools to assist with delivery of the exclusive Bermuda Bridge Award programme for 12 and 13-year-olds.

“The remaining active cadets, many of whom have previous experience at the bronze and silver levels of the award, will be enrolled as Gold level Duke of Edinburgh participants.”