Worcester Park Teen Named St John Ambulance London Cadet of the Year
A teenage volunteer from Worcester Park has been honoured as St John Ambulance's Regional Cadet of the Year for London, following a rigorous national competition that tested her exceptional first aid knowledge, leadership, and communication abilities.
National Competition and Selection Process
Sixteen-year-old Shreeya Gulati was chosen to represent the London region after being selected from over 35 of St John Ambulance's most outstanding cadets from across the country. All participants had previously won county competitions to earn their place at the national final. The competition, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, took place from February 27 to March 1 at Ingestre Hall near Stafford. It brought together young volunteers for a weekend of challenging assessments designed to evaluate their first aid skills, leadership, and commitment to volunteering.
Competition Challenges and Real-Life Scenarios
During the event, cadets engaged in a series of exercises including first aid scenarios, teamwork and problem-solving tasks, presentations, interviews, and group discussions. These were assessed by an experienced panel of judges. Many challenges were based on real-life situations that cadets might encounter while volunteering in their communities, adding a practical dimension to the tests.
Shreeya Gulati's Background and Achievements
Shreeya is currently studying for her A-Levels in Biology, Chemistry, Maths, and Further Maths at Tiffin School. She volunteers at the Cheam Cadet unit and is an active member of school societies, such as the medicine society. Her accolades include receiving an Academic Achievement Award, an Endeavour Award, and a Form Tutor's Award for exemplary involvement in the school community. She has completed both the Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh Awards and volunteers weekly at a local care home. Additionally, she serves as a Lady Mayor's Cadet, acting as an ambassador for St John Ambulance and attending civic events. Outside of school and St John, Shreeya plays tennis weekly and enjoys reading widely, particularly fiction and non-fiction related to politics and international relations, which she also explores through podcasts.
Reflections and Responsibilities
Reflecting on her achievement, Shreeya said, "Being selected as Regional Cadet of the Year for London truly means so much to me. The whole competition was an incredibly surreal and special experience, and I am so grateful for the opportunity. It is such an honour, but it also comes with a responsibility that I do not take lightly, and I will do my very best to represent the Cadets across London, and to use this role to champion all their views and the ideas I believe will make a positive impact."
Leadership Praise and Future Roles
Rear Admiral Simon Williams CB CVO KStJ, Prior of the Priory of England and the Islands of the Order of St John, commented, "I am immensely proud of every Cadet who took part in this year's National Cadet of the Year competition. As we mark the 40th anniversary of this award, it is inspiring to see such high levels of skill, confidence and compassion among our young volunteers." Shona Dunn CB, Chief Executive of St John Ambulance, added, "The Cadets demonstrated not only outstanding first aid ability, but also leadership, teamwork and a genuine commitment to helping others. They represent the very best of St John Ambulance, and I have no doubt they will continue to make a real difference in their communities and beyond." The National Cadet of the Year, supported by a team of eight Regional Cadets of the Year, will act as an ambassador for St John Ambulance over the coming year, representing young volunteers at events and royal engagements, supporting youth involvement across the organisation, and championing the importance of first aid and volunteering in communities nationwide.
