Maidenhead teenager named St John Ambulance Regional Cadet of the Year

A 16-year-old from Maidenhead has triumphed in the prestigious St John Ambulance Regional Cadet of the Year competition.

Ethan Miller secured the title after outperforming 34 other elite cadets from across the South East, navigating a gruelling series of challenges designed to push his first aid expertise and problem-solving skills to the limit.

Demonstrating calm under pressure, Ethan excelled at responding to a spectrum of simulated situations at the Staffordshire-based test centre.

Mirroring real-life crises, they tested the cadets’ management of cardiac arrest, seizures, fractures, heat-related problems, major bleeds and severe asthma attacks.

Ethan’s performance impressed the judges and was built partially on extensive ‘frontline’ experience where he previously responded to live incidents at local fireworks displays and rugby matches.

In his early outings, the Windsor cadet had to manage multiple epileptic seizures and potential cardiac episodes in challenging environments, equipping him with lightning-fast critical thinking and expert crowd management and robust medical support skills.

But the competition, celebrating its landmark 40th anniversary this year, looked beyond the practical and physical tests.

To succeed, the Chalfont Community College pupil also had to demonstrate excellence in formal presentations, interviews and group discussion, balancing the fast-paced nature of emergency response with sophisticated communication skills.

Reflecting on being named Regional Cadet of the Year, Ethan said: “It was a real honour, and a big surprise, to be named Regional Cadet of the Year for the South East for 2026.

“The standard of everyone there was incredibly high, but what stood out most was how supportive and friendly the competition felt. I feel very lucky to have been surrounded by such an amazing support team throughout the weekend.

“St John Ambulance has given me so many opportunities from learning lifesaving skills and volunteering at both local community and major events, to developing my confidence, leadership and teamwork. It has helped shape who I am, and I’m really grateful for that.”

Ethan can now add Regional Cadet of the Year for the South East to his many other awards which include the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award and the Northern Prep Schools Sailing Regatta, in which he achieved the Round Square Award.

Shona Dunn CB, Chief Executive of St John Ambulance, said that cadets like Ethan show ‘outstanding first aid ability, 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.”