Two nursing cadets, Grace Parvini and Chloe Davies from the College of West Anglia’s (CWA) King’s Lynn campus, had the incredible opportunity to travel to London and meet his Majesty King Charles III at a prestigious Royal College of Nursing (RCN) event. They were among just 33 cadets chosen from across the UK to attend the VIP gathering, celebrating the success of the RCN King’s Nursing Cadet programme (formerly the RCN Prince of Wales Nursing Cadet Scheme), which introduces young people to careers in healthcare.
CWA is the only further education college in Norfolk running this programme, and with growing interest, CWA is now preparing to launch a second cohort to meet demand.
During the event His Majesty showcased his first aid skills, joining a demonstration where he practiced CPR on a training mannequin under the guidance of nursing cadets. One of the cadets, Grace, had the unique experience of showing His Majesty how to clear a patient’s airway, explaining key techniques, they had learned through the Nursing cadet programme. The cadets also had the chance to speak to him about their experiences and aspirations in healthcare.
Grace Parvini, said “Being part of the RCN nursing cadet programme has been one of the best experiences for me. It has helped me develop existing skills and learn so many new ones. Meeting His Majesty was a surreal and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Overall, it was an amazing experience, and I would highly recommend becoming a nursing cadet to anyone who gets the chance.”
Adrian Debney, Head of the School of Nursing added "I am immensely proud of our Royal College of Nursing Cadets. Chloe and Grace truly reflect the pride, enthusiasm and compassion which all of our young cadets have demonstrated as they prepare for their future roles caring for others. Chloe, Grace and all of our RCN Cadets are outstanding role models for others - sincere thanks to them for representing our cohort so well."
The event also marked the formal renaming of the scheme to the RCN King’s Nursing Cadets, a clear indication of the King’s continued support and patronage.
With ongoing funding and increasing interest, the programme is set to grow, providing more young people with valuable healthcare training and opportunities to make a difference in the sector.
