Sea Cadets
We continue to support the Sea Cadets reflecting the
importance of their mission to encourage youngsters aged 10-18,
from diverse backgrounds to, to realise their potential by learning
a variety of skills in a structured environment.
The Sea Cadets provide indoor and outdoor activities with a nautical flavour, develop teamwork, enterprise, respect and integrity; all of which are key elements in today’s broader educational processes. We are working with them to increase their profile leading to the recruitment of both cadets and adult volunteers.
We hosted the second Sea Cadet Fest at Lakeside in September following the success of the MetroCentre event held in 2006. The Lakeside weekend involved 40 units from London and Southern areas. Activities included the Sea Cadet band, traditional displays of historic naval skills, canoeing and yachting. The weekend festival was a great success and served as a catalyst for the recruitment of 35 young people as new cadets or juniors, the highest recruitment level achieved by the Sea Cadets from one specific event.
In addition a considerable number of enquires were made regarding the nearest Sea Cadet unit suggesting that this interest will lead to further recruitment in the future.
Quote:
“It had great PR value but from a cadet’s view I thought it was a great chance to ‘Let our hair down’ and have fun! I know I did and I’m sure the guys kayaking would agree. I was talking to some of the public when the sailors were on display and they were really happy to see teenagers doing something and not getting caught up in hassle on the streets. I think we should have more weekends like Lakeside. It should give cadets a sense of pride which again is part of Sea Cadets experience.” 17 year old cadet from Sheppy Unit, involved in boating activities.
It is planned to hold a second Sea Cadet Fest at Lakeside in Spring 2009 and further events have also been programmed at Chapelfield, Norwich and MetroCentre in 2008 and Braehead, Renfrew, Scotland in 2009 when it is anticipated that it will include The Sea Cadet national band competition.
We also supported for the third year the annual Trafalgar Day Parade in London led by the Sea Cadets.
We look forward to the continuing success of this important partnership reflecting the prime objective of encouraging youngsters, many from single parent families or deprived backgrounds, to take part in activities which are exciting, vibrant and aspirational as well as educational.
