A way forward at the Sea Cadets

A cold night from darkness into light as I enter the large, brightly lit, friendly sounding hall, the Cadets meet and greet each other and exchange friendly banter. Then the call to Muster: all stand to attention as the flags are raised, the Cadets look smart in their uniform. After all are stood down, they go off for different training.

The Cadets agreed to comment what they like and why they continue to attend the group. I was pleased to hear the following comments:

“I joined the Sea Cadets because I wanted to become a mechanic on a naval ship, as does my friend. If you work hard and focus you can achieve your dreams, I’m on my path to be a mechanic. I stayed in the Sea Cadets to accomplish my dreams and so far, I am on that path.”

“I joined the Cadets to do more with my week, with an interest in the armed forces. I stay because of the people I have got to know all around the country and how social the Cadets are. It provides me with a good potential for job opportunities and is very enjoyable and fun.”

“I joined Sea Cadets because I would like to learn how to focus with paying attention and I also joined to make friends.”

I felt the group offered camaraderie which enabled the individual to develop. A young lady of 11 was in her fourth week and had a buddy to guide her in the group. This helps newcomers to learn the ropes.

Members of the Cadets who have been progressing for years are better equipped when applying for an apprenticeship or to become a Naval Deck Officer or an engineer.

Leanna was a Cadet from the age of 10 - 18 and is now working to become a Deck Officer. This will mean hard work for her to progress to degree level, 3rd officer, 2nd officer, 1st officer and then Captain. This is called the ‘ticket’ qualification.

Those who want to go to sea can gain guidance and how to get a bursary within the Cadets. It would appear that trained Sea Cadets are wanted by shipping companies.

Leanna's first job was to be flown out to Jamaica to join her cruise ship and to start her training, where she trained with the crew on how to be shipshape. In port she has extra time off to explore. A second Cadet is on P&O ferries, and she is also working hard.

All the officers and staff are volunteers, Jo-an runs the tea / biscuit little book for Cadets who run a bit short at the break. It’s a very important part of the night, natter and a cuppa.

The last Thursday of the month is an important night as Cadets receive their certificates and move on to their next goal.

Written by:
Councillor Barbara Young,
Pegwell Ward