St John Youth NZ

06/10/2026

🌟Shout out to Oli! 🌟📣

We love to recognise our cadets and give credit where it's due, so read about Oli below - an incredible, enthusiastic, and compassionate individual who has made a significant contribution to St John Youth Wānaka over the past eight years.

An exceptional leader and mentor to our younger cadets and Penguins, Oli has a wonderful ability to make those around him feel valued, included and supported. His kindness, humour and positive attitude make him someone young people and leaders naturally look up to and genuinely enjoy being around.

Oli never seeks attention or recognition for the incredible work he does. He is happy to let others shine while supporting them from behind the scenes. His impact on the young people within Wānaka has been significant and lasting. This is reflected in how many cadets look up to him, as well as feedback from parents who have spoken about the positive influence he has had on their children and how approachable, kind and encouraging he is.

Alongside his contribution to St John Youth, Oli is also involved in his school service committee and is an accomplished sailor.

Thank you, Oli! We are so lucky to have you in the St John Youth Programme 🤩

04/10/2026

🏅 The Grand Prior's Award 🏅

The Grand Prior's Award is one of the highest achievements available in the St John Youth Programme and sits within the Gold Curriculum for our senior cadets in Hato Hone St John.

To earn this prestigious award, cadets must complete:
✅ 5 compulsory badges
✅ 5 optional badges
✅ 100 hours of community service
✅ Level 2 First Aid Certificate

A recent recipient of this award is our 2027 National Cadet of the Year Nate Woods. Keep an eye out for a story about his journey coming soon!

📜 A Proud History
Established in 1931 by the Duke of Connaught, then Grand Prior of the Order, the award was created as St John’s most senior cadet award. The first awards were presented in 1933, including one to a Nursing Cadet in Australia. New Zealand quickly adopted the programme, with its first Ambulance Cadet awards presented in 1934.

🌿 Rich in Tradition
The award features the Badge of the Order surrounded by a wreath of St John's Wort (Hypericum), a medicinal plant historically used by the Hospitallers of the medieval Order of St John. Crowned by the Grand Prior's coronet, the badge proudly reflects the heritage and values of the Order.

🌍 International Recognition
Today, the Grand Prior's Award holds special significance across the Order worldwide. The Grand Council has reaffirmed that the Grand Prior's Award is the highest award, other than for bravery, or the Sovereign’s Award, that can be conferred upon a Youth Member. As an official Order award, each certificate is sealed with the Priory Seal.

👏 Achieving the Grand Prior's Award is a remarkable accomplishment that recognises years of service, leadership, learning, and dedication to helping others.

🖤💛🏅

02/10/2026

Today's First Aid Fact is all about CPR, otherwise known as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. 💓

This October, AKA Shocktober, many of our Divisions will feature a special focus on the 3 Steps for Life process, which CPR is a crucial part of.

CPR involves delivering chest compressions at a recommended speed of 100 - 120 beats per minute. Do you know of any songs that match this tempo? 🎶

28/09/2026

Shout out to Jessica! 💫📣

Jessica is an exceptional cadet whose dedication, compassion, and determination continue to inspire those around her.

Over the years, Jess has grown into a confident and capable role model, leading by example and consistently striving to be the best version of herself. She approaches every challenge with commitment and a positive attitude, setting a high standard for others to follow.

One area where her dedication truly shines is parade calling. Through hard work and practice outside of division, Jess has developed into a confident and reliable caller. When we need someone to step up and take charge, we know we can count on her.

👏 We are incredibly proud of you, Jess, and grateful for everything you bring to the St John Youth Programme 🌟

22/09/2026

19/09/2026

Gold Healthcare & Casualty Simulation Badge Camp 2026

What an incredible weekend of learning, leadership, and teamwork!
Last month, cadets from across Central Region came together to develop their knowledge and skills for the Healthcare and Casualty Simulation (Cas Sim) badges.

Throughout camp, cadets had the opportunity to experience hands-on learning, practical scenarios, patient care activities, and realistic casualty simulation exercises.

A huge thank you to our dedicated leaders, support teams, and cadet NCOs who gave their time and expertise to help make the camp a success.

We are incredibly proud of all the cadets who embraced new challenges, stepped outside their comfort zones, and worked hard towards achieving their badges.

👏 Well done everyone!

17/09/2026

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We've been teaching first aid for 99 years. Check out these throwback photos of St John Youth first aid training in the 1950/60s! 📸

From mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to bandaging, these young people were learning skills to help others in an emergency❤️‍🩹

While first aid has changed over the years, one thing hasn’t - the importance of being ready to help.

14/09/2026

Shout out to Krystel! 🙌

Whether she's helping fellow cadets overcome challenges, building team spirit, or lending a hand at events, Krystel consistently goes above and beyond.

One standout example was during this year's ANZAC Day commemorations. Armed with spare hairpins, clothes pins, and an endless supply of encouragement, Krystel made sure every cadet looked their best and felt confident before stepping into the spotlight.

Krystel is also a strong advocate for herself and others. Even when faced with nerves, she shows remarkable courage in speaking up, suggesting improvements, and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Combined with her wonderful sense of humour and positive attitude, she helps create an inclusive and supportive environment wherever she goes.

We are incredibly fortunate to have Krystel as part of our programme. Thank you for everything you do! 👏✨

10/09/2026

🛡️ SAFETY BADGE 🚑

Safety is a skill for life! Our Safety Badge helps cadets learn how to keep themselves and others safe in all sorts of situations.

Through practical activities and hands-on learning, cadets develop skills to:
🔎 Spot hazards and assess risks
🏠 Learn how to stay safe at home and outdoors
🚗 Understand safety around roads and vehicles
🌊 Learn how to stay safe around water
🚑 Build basic first aid and emergency response skills

It’s all about becoming more aware, thinking ahead and knowing what to do when something doesn’t go to plan. 💙

Because being prepared can make all the difference! 🙌