Course spotlight: BTEC Level 2
Get more out of your Sea Cadets training with a new qualification in Teamwork and Personal Development in the Community

What’s the course?
CVQO’s (Cadet Vocational Qualification Organisation) new BTEC Level 2, Teamwork and Personal Development in the Community (TPD), takes every aspect of what it means to be a sea cadet and gives you an internationally recognised qualification. The updated course offers a range of modules, including: Developing Teamwork and Communication Skills, Preparing for Employment, Health and Fitness, Adventurous Activities, Land Navigation, Volunteering, Leadership Skills, and Citizenship and Community Awareness.

How does it work?
CVQO’s BTEC Level 2 qualifications have been specifically designed for young people. TPD has 14 modules to choose from. Unit 1 (Developing Effective Teamwork Skills) is mandatory. Once that is complete, you can choose any two additional units for the Extended Certificate and any five additional units for the Diploma. These also include three music units.
You can also choose how to complete the qualification: by blended learning via face-to-face or virtual workshops; printed workbooks and learner guides, e-workbooks; and ourVirtual Learning Environment (CVQO Moodle). These all make it really flexible and interactive.

Who can apply?
You can enrol on the BTEC Level 2 if you have completed year 11 at school and you were born between 1 September 2002 and 31 August 2005. So if you are aged 16–19 and looking to gain a qualification that recognises all of the amazing leadership, teamwork, community skills and other achievements you earn at Sea Cadets, this might be just what you need.
Is the qualification funded?
Working with CVQO, the BTEC Level 2 is available to cadets across the UK on a fully funded basis, which means you won’t have to pay for it.
How do I enrol?
Get in touch with your Unit Training Officer or Vocational Qualification Officer first, to let them know you’re interested in taking part.
You can go to the website for more information.

Mum of POC Grace, who did a BTEC, says:
“Thank you for the wonderful courses. The expedition to Cornwall was fantastic and really brought Grace out of her shell. She came back feeling confident and had made many new (hopefully lasting) friendships. She now feels confident to become a volunteer. This whole experience has been wonderful.”