Welcome to the family

Thanks to the dedicated team at Sea Cadets Training Centre Raleigh, our epic District Naval Experience Weeks help cadets feel part of the Royal Navy family at one of its most famous establishments. It has become such a popular experience that Highland District made an epic 700-mile trip down last summer – and really made the journey worthwhile. Determined to improve enough to perform on the hallowed HMS Raleigh Parade Ground, they marched everywhere during the week – completing a combined total of 136 training modules!

The historic surroundings mean just as much to the ‘local’ cadets of Devon District, who attended in April. “It was a chance to get more of an understanding of the Royal Navy,” said Ordinary Cadet Sam, 14, of Exmouth Unit. “To see how they live on the ships, and what you have to do to pass Phase 1 training.” But forging a sense of district identity is important too. “I learnt more about my district and where units are based,” said Sam. “The friends I made there… it was like an extended family by the end.”

The week normally begins with a 6:15am wake-up call before a hearty breakfast provides essential fuel for the challenges ahead – the first of which is the famous obstacle course! Cadets are split into teams for friendly competition, although getting as wet and muddy as possible can be more important than having the fastest time! Either way, cadets learn the importance of supporting each other while pushing themselves to the limit. 

“The obstacle course was fun but physically challenging,” confirmed Exmouth’s Cadet Cobi, 12. After cleaning themselves up, cadets then enjoy a tour of new recruit accommodation and find out what Phase 1 training entails – including a visit to the gym to witness the incredible fitness  levels recruits reach by Week 3. 

The action continues on Day 2 with a trip on the chain ferry to Plymouth, before a tour of the enormous Devonport Dockyard and a boat trip along the River Tamar – with chances to pilot the Serco power vessel. The afternoon brings a tour of a Type 23 Frigate, such as HMS Portland or HMS Sutherland – where serving personnel give cadets a unique insight of Royal Navy operations and life on board. 

“I’d like to join the Royal Navy… the experience week showed me what opportunities there are”

cadet cobi

Day 3 steps up the intensity with a day of training with the Triumph Squadron. This often begins with a fire-fighting session – learning how to put out a range of infernos with the help of some very powerful hoses! To cool off, cadets head to the legendary Damage Repair Instructional Unit, where they are tasked with preventing their ‘battle-damaged vessel’ from sinking. 

Surrounded by burst pipes, holes and unsecured hatches, cadet teams have to race to stem the flooding – all while being distracted by smoke and sirens and drenched by their volunteers armed with buckets! It gives cadets an invaluable experience of having to think quickly and co-ordinate a plan under pressure.  

The last full day often involves yet another chance to get wet. This time, it is Sea Survival training in ‘abandon ship’ scenarios, where cadets learn how to put on inflating lifejackets and survival suits before sampling a life raft and its rations. After drying off, the week finishes with some awe-inspiring engagement with fascinating tours of the Seamanship and Submarine Schools, and an eye-opening presentation on the crucial support role of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.

All cadets leave with a huge appreciation of what Sea Cadets gives them, and even more respect and admiration for the Royal Navy. For many, it’s described as a highlight of the year – particularly for those like Cobi, who are “looking at joining the Navy when I am old enough… the experience week showed me what opportunities are available”.  

“Beyond the mud and mayhem, cadets gain confidence, learn independence and get a sense of achievement that simply can’t be replicated on a normal parade night,” summed up PO (SCC) Fox of Felixstowe Unit after their visit in February. OC Sam explained his own personal journey: “I really improved my communications with my peers and my teamwork skills. The most challenging thing is stepping outside of your comfort zone – but by the end of the week you are enjoying it and gaining new experiences.” 

“The cadets worked really well together, and their confidence grew throughout the week,” confirmed Lt (SCC) Sarah Andrews, Exmouth Unit’s Officer in Charge. “It was really good to see the smiles on their faces when they achieved something they did not feel they could do before.” 

Photos: Sea Cadets/Colin Ridley