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Who We Are

The first Sea Cadet unit was established in 1854 at Whitstable in Kent, created by communities wanting to give young people instruction on a naval theme. Traditionally old seafarers provided training while local businessmen funded the Unit Headquarters.

The tradition of community - based Sea Cadet Units continues today with 400 across the UK each with charitable status enabling them to raise funds to meet their running costs. All Units are members of the Sea Cadet Corps and are governed by the national charity MSSC - the Marine Society & Sea Cadets.

We work partnership with the Royal Navy under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and receive corporate support from commercial shipping companies and the Maritime sector. Our core purpose is to celebrate Britain's maritime heritage and contribute to its future development by supporting young people as Sea Cadets.

At Training Ship CHALLENGER (Wandsworth, Chelsea and Fulham Sea Cadets) boating is at the centre of everything we do.

We train Cadets to Royal Yachting Association standards in powerboating and sailing, to British Canoe Union standards with our kayaks. We participate in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme and instruct in supporting skills, such as, engineering, first aid, radio communications and ceremonial drill.

Cadets over 14 have the opportunity to train as divers (British Sub Acqua Club standard) and those over 16 have the opportunity to earn a BTEC First Diploma in Public Services - the equivalent of four GCSEs at grades A-C.

Who We Are

Commanding Officer
Lieutenant (SCC) Don Holland, Royal Naval Reserve

Unit Management Committee Chairman
Mrs Chris Matthews

Unit President
The Worshipful Mayor of the London Borough of Wandsworth