News

Training was going well for our RNP on the 1st March but due to the recent wintery weather, we had to cancel and re arrange. Luckily, we were able to get it re-scheduled for the 8th March, only a week later.

We got the juniors that were able to join us on the Tuesday parade night to have a final run through just to keep it fresh in everyone’s mind.

Thursday night came and everyone was full of anticipation, would the cadets remember what they had to do, would I remember what I had to say and when. The Area Officer, Commander Trevor Price RN arrived just before 6.40 to get changed into his uniform. The Mayor arrived at 6.45 and was met by the Chair Fiona Dodds. The AO made his official arrival at 7.00 where he inspected the Guard who were well turned out. We then went on to do colours before the AO inspected and chatted to all cadets on parade, he even went down on one knee to chat to one of the juniors.

Once he had inspected each squad, we had a stand easy (refreshments) and the AO was able to get around and speak to the guests and parents before watching the cadet’s presentation.

First the juniors did a chip shop challenge where they went and visited a couple of chip shops bringing back 2 portions of chips to taste and decided which were the best. The senior cadets did a demonstration of stewarding which involved setting places for meals and napkin folding, they got a couple of parents out to try their hand as well. Another group did a demonstration of navigation using large models of buoys and markers.

AC Charlie then gave a short speech on how cadets has changed his life for the better, followed by a powerpoint show of some of the activities the unit has been involved with over the past year.

After evening colours, the AO gave out some awards and promotions. He then gave a short speech on how we had done and what the cadets need to do for next year before announcing that we will be awarded a Burgee for this year.

Since the RNP, I have received an email from the AO asking if AC Charlie would give his speech at the Area conference at the end of the year, as he was so impressed by it. 

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in the unit for making this year’s RNP such a great success. BZ

Lt Martyn Burton

As it is nearly time for the RNP, it can only mean one thing... time to have a unit clear out!

Today we have spent the day going through cupboards, cleaning out classrooms, the food store and the boat shed.

We have had a little gardening team, who has been weeding the front to give the unit a nice, tidy appearance. The weather hasn't been good to us, but this hasn't stopped them from doing a good job.

The cadets that have come to help have been really good, getting stuck in with any job that they have been given.

Thank you to everyone who has come to help today!!

This weekend, the unit held its first training weekend of 2018.

The cadets had the choice of 4 specialisations to choose from. Catering, First Aid, Navigation and Seamanship.

Catering - all 3 cadets on this course gained their qualifaction. They provided the lunch on Saturday which consisted of homemade vegetable soup with crusty bread and a selection of different fillings for baguettes. One cadet made a cake on the Saturday evening and brought it in on Sunday for everybody to have after their lunch of baked potatoes and mixed fillings.

Navigation - all 4 cadets gained the relevant qualification needed. They learnt how to plan a passage so that they can do a days sail from one location to another. They also can tell you if you are able to boat by the weather and tides.

First Aid - the 2 cadets taking this course have gained their qualification. They can now perform CPR if the situation ever arises. They will also be able to dress different wounds when required.

Seamanship - 4 cadets have now completed their basic seamanship and can now tie a selection of knots. They also learnt the different types of ropes, how to cheese, coil, flake rope to keep it safe and smart. 

Hello, my name is PO Hain.

I joined Parkstone Sea Cadets in 2012 after speaking to a friend, who was also in the unit. I went along one parade night and thoroughly enjoyed myself. I have made loads of friends who I have shared many great life experiences with, for example: courses and trips to Jersey.

When I turned 18, I became a member of staff. This has given me a great sense of pride and I love helping all the cadets achieve their ambitions, through nautical based adventure and fun. Parkstone Unit are like my second family and I have a great amount of respect for everyone within the organisation.

Every year, the unit holds its annual Senior Cadet Mess Dinner based on the Military Mess tradition. As they arrive, they are given a choice of apple or orange juice, followed by a photo in their finery. Once everyone has arrived they are invited to take their seats at the table where they then enjoy a 3 course meal cooked by Mrs B and her catering team, which is then served by the staff. After dinner it is time for Passing of the Port (Non-alcoholic), toasts and the speech. This year the speech was provide by Able Cadet Charlie. On completion, they continue to party the night away with a disco.

The Menu

Starters: Choice of Prawn Cocktail, Melon or Pate with melba toast

Main: Roast Chicken and Gammon, roast potatoes, pigs in blanket, stuffing balls, carrots, roast parsnips, peas, cauliflower cheese and homemade gravy

Dessert: Choice of chocolate & strawberry gateau, meringue nests with strawberries, raspberries and blueberries all served with cream