Londonderry's Badgers are 'setting' high standards!

The competition took place at the St John Ambulance Headquarters in Knockbracken Healthcare Park, and promotes and encourages Badgers to practice the life skills they have learned by completing a range of subjects, both creative and caring.

To win Badgers aged eight and 10 took part in three exercises, which included a presentation on the theme ‘Bertie the Badger goes green’, an art and craft exercise as well as a team project.

Eimear McWilliams from the Greenhaw St John Ambulance Badger Set in Londonderry collected the ‘Badger of the Year’ title and trophy.

On collecting her prize, Eimear was very happy.

“I can’t believe that I am the Badger of the Year! It’s really great for both me and the Sett,” said Eimear.

“Being a St John Ambulance Badger is really fun as I get to meet up with other people who are the same age as me and have fun as well as learning new things. I think more young people like me would benefit from being a St. John Ambulance Badger,” she said.

Yvonne McCartney and Eleanor Taylor, both long-term members of St John Ambulance, organised the event and Mrs Annette McKee attended to present the coveted Cup to the delighted winner.

Yvonne commented on the skill and dedication displayed by the youngest of St John Ambulance members: “The Badger Programme was developed to enable young people learn important life skills in a fun and safe environment and the benefits of taking part in this activity could be clearly seen during the competition’s activities.”

“Being part of a St John Ambulance Badger Sett provides young people with an outlet where they can be with their peers and enjoy learning new skills while having fun. I would recommend it to all young people,” she said.

Anyone aged between five and 10 years old can join a St John Ambulance Badger Sett. Badgers take part in a lively programme and work towards their Super Bader Award. The programme has been developed to enable young people to learn important life skills. Badgers can choose from 15 subjects to help complete award.

Once a Badger has completed their membership paw, they move onto their bronze paw, which awarded after completing three subjects.

A further three subjects will gain the silver paw and another three for the gold paw. A Badger becomes a Super Badger when they have completed 12 subjects.

Badgers learn important first aid skills through their Super Badger Award and various first aid courses.

For more information on St John Ambulance services visit www.ni.sja.org.uk or call 028 90 799 393.