Youth Development

How it works

Youth teams meet once a week during school term. Enrolment intakes run across Terms 1, 2, and 3, and there are no fees to join. 

What youth members do

• Learn nationally recognised first aid skills through hands-on, age-appropriate training
• Attend community events to provide first aid under the supervision of qualified adult members
• Take part in competitions and social activities with other St John youth across South Australia and interstate
• Work towards proficiency badges and progress through St John's national youth achievement scheme
• Earn SACE credit points for eligible training and participation
• Take on leadership roles as they grow in confidence and experience

A pathway, not just a program 

From age 16, youth members can progress to become Youth Responders, taking part in higher-level clinical training alongside our adult volunteers. It's a natural step for members ready to build on their skills and take on more responsibility at events. Ideally suited to young people looking to pursue careers in healthcare or allied health.

Many of our youth members go on to become Youth Leaders, supporting and mentoring the next intake, or transition into adult roles with our Health & Medical Services once eligible. First aid skills learned through the program have also opened doors to careers in paramedicine, nursing, medicine and other emergency services for members across Australia.

Become a Youth Leader

Our Youth Leaders are the adult volunteers who make the program run. It's a great fit if you're looking to build experience working with young people, whether you're a teacher, allied health professional, trainer, or simply enjoy mentoring and want to give back. Youth Leader volunteers support training nights, supervise members at events, and help guide members through their badges and awards.

Part of a national program

St John Youth is a long-running national program, with youth teams operating across most Australian states and territories. Wherever our members go, they're part of a broader community of young people learning first aid, leadership and service.

We focus on providing a fun, safe and engaging platform for young people to contribute to their community while building first aid, life and social skills that last a lifetime.