Q. When are the Parade Nights?
A. Every Monday and Friday 18:30-21:00 (6:30pm-9pm)
Q. How soon can I have my uniform?
A. On completion of 12 weeks training, providing you are successful in the test (which isn't difficult), your attendance has been good and your uniform size is held in the Unit.
Q. I have other regular activities on one of the Parade nights, can I attend only one night a week?
A. Yes, but to be fair to yourself, the staff and other Cadets, you should attend well over 50% of Parades.
Q. I want to join the RN/RM when I am older. Will Sea Cadets guarantee my entry?
A. No. Being a Sea Cadet will not guarantee entry into the services, but on your application to join, the C.O. will be asked to report on you, by the Careers Officer. Should you successfully pass the entrance exam, then good attendance and "taking part" in Cadets may well prove to be an advantage. As a matter of interest, a large part of the serving naval personnel originated in the Sea Cadet Corps.
Q. Can I stay in the Cadets as long as I like?
A. Yes, providing you have reached the rate of Cadet Petty Officer by the time you are 18. Then, if you wish, you may become either a Probationary Petty Officer on the staff or a Civilian Instructor.
Q. Can I leave when I want?
A. Yes, but most Cadets once they have joined normally stay.
Q. Can my parents visit the Unit?
A. Yes, parents and friends are always welcome, but we ask that visitors bear in mind that Cadets may be under instruction.
Q. My friend is only 11, can he/she join?
A. Yes, there is a junior section for 10 – 12 year olds who meet every Monday at 19.00 – 21.00 (7.00pm – 9pm).
Q. Do I have to go on courses?
A. No. Courses are not compulsory, although we do like Cadets to attend as many courses as possible in order to get the most out of the Sea Cadet Corps.
Q. Must I be able to swim?
A. No. Lots of youngsters who join are not able to swim, but we hope you will learn while you are with us. There are within the Corps qualified swimming instructors, you only need to be able to swim for some boating activities and too be promoted to Leading Cadet.
Q. Can I go on board ships?
A. Yes. In fact some of the courses on offer take place on board ships. Trips to RN ships are arranged whenever possible.
Q. I am very shy, will that be a problem?
A. Of course not, many of our cadets start off very shy but you will make friends fast and you will find everyone is very friendly.
If there are any other questions just CONTACT us and ask