On Wednesday (Mar. 10) two of Squamish's youth set off on a journey to see if they have what it takes to someday don the Mounties' scarlet tunic.
Leah Richardson and Randy McHale, students from Howe Sound Secondary School, have been chosen to attend the RCMP's 10-day Youth Academy. Sean Goodwin, a third successful candidate, had to remove himself from the endeavour due to a bout of bronchitis.
In order to be chosen, each individual completed an extensive application package consisting of letters of reference, a complete resume and RCMP Security clearance/ background checks while maintaining an acceptable academic standing. In addition, the applicants underwent physical testing including push-ups, sit-ups and a timed 2.5-km run followed by a interview with a RCMP constable.
The RCMP Youth Academy is designed for students aged 16 to 18 years of age who are interested in police work and law enforcement as a possible future career. The Fraser-Cascade, Chilliwack, Mission, Sunshine Coast, Howe Sound and Maple Ridge School Districts are working in partnership with the RCMP to provide this unique opportunity to secondary school students. This year's Police Academy will be held at the Stillwater Conference Centre, at the south end of Cultus Lake from Mar. 10 to 20. The program is designed to place the students in an RCMP academy situation. The students will experience everything a police cadet would experience but in capsulated form. Students will receive instructions on law, police tactics, social skills, physical training, self defence, and have lectures from various police specialists.
Students will also be expected to make a presentation to the group, complete various reports, partake in all planned activities and to work with other students as part of a team.
