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As we look back on the first quarter of 2026, it’s clear that the year has begun with exceptional momentum,
achievement and enthusiasm across every part of our unit. From promotions and qualifications to
competitions, community engagement and national events, our cadets and adult volunteers have set an
inspiring standard for the months ahead.

January and February saw a remarkable number of promotions across the Junior, Sea Cadet and Royal Marines
Cadet sections, welcoming new faces into the organisation and celebrating the hard work of those
continuing to progress. It has been equally impressive to witness so many cadets gaining qualifications, from
engineering and seamanship to mountain biking, catering and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, demonstrating
the breadth of opportunities available and the dedication our young people bring to each one. Our adult
volunteers have also continued their professional development, strengthening the support we offer across
the board.

Our presence at events and competitions has been equally strong. From the outstanding success at the
Warwickshire District Drill & Piping Competition, representing the District at the Birmingham International
Tattoo, or supporting our local community at Sutton Rose Care Home, the unit continues to live its values
through teamwork, service and pride. The successful AGM and attendance at the South West Area
Conference further highlight the professionalism and commitment of our staff and UMT.

March continued this excellent trajectory, with more promotions across all sections, including several new
Leading and Petty Officer Cadets, and additional qualifications earned by both cadets and adults. Our teams
at the South West Area Drill & Piping Competition once again represented the unit with talent and
determination, bringing home well‐deserved medals.

If the first quarter is anything to go by, 2026 promises to be a year of growth, opportunity and achievement
for everyone involved.

Yours Aye,

Sub Lieutenant (SCC) Ryan Richards RNR
Officer in Charge, Sutton Coldfield Sea Cadets & Royal Marines Cadets

Read the full newsletter here

As we move through another busy and rewarding quarter at Sutton Coldfield Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets, I want to take a moment to thank every cadet, volunteer, parent and supporter for the commitment you continue to show. The strength of our Unit has always been built on teamwork, young people pushing themselves to improve, adults giving their time and experience, and a community that believes in what we do.

This quarter has been a brilliant example of our values in action. On 9 November 2025, our cadets and staff proudly paraded at the Sutton Coldfield Remembrance Day service, forming part of the wider parade and providing a guard at the cenotaph. It was a moment of real pride to see our cadets represent the Unit with such professionalism, respect, and maturity, honouring those who served and reinforcing the standards we expect of ourselves.

We have also continued to strengthen our links with the local community. On 18 November 2025, two of our cadets attended the Rotary Club Dinner and delivered a presentation on our Unit and our future development plans. Opportunities like this not only showcase what our cadets can achieve, but also help us build the relationships and support that allow the Unit to grow and create even more opportunities for young people.

Finally, I’m delighted to report a fantastic start to the 2026 competition year. On 22 November 2025, our Royal Marines Cadet Detachment achieved our first competition success of the season by bringing home Gold at the 1 Troop Drill Competition. This is a testament to the hard work, discipline and determination shown in training. Well done to every cadet and member of staff involved.

I hope you enjoy this newsletter and feel proud of everything that has been achieved this quarter. As ever, we look ahead with ambition, continuing to deliver nautical adventure, life skills, and leadership development, while representing Sutton Coldfield with the standards and pride our community has come to expect.

Yours Aye,

Sub Lieutenant (SCC) Ryan Richards RNR

Officer in Charge, Sutton Coldfield Sea Cadets & Royal Marines Cadets

For the full newsletter, click HERE

We're pleased to announce some volunteer role changes, effective from September 2025.

Our new First Lieutenant, Lt A.Rose RN, and our new Unit Training Officer, PO(SCC) E.Taylor are looking forward to providing training and advice to our cadets through their new leadership positions.

BZ to you both on your appointments!

DAWN TILL DUSK BOATING CHALLENGE - August 2025

We took to the water from sunset to sunrise on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd August 2025 in a test of endurance, teamwork, and sheer determination — all to raise vital funds for our unit! 💪🌊

Every penny donated helps support our young cadets with equipment, training and unforgettable experiences.

Support our crew here: https://paypal.me/SCC42

Whether it's £2 or £20, it all makes a difference. Cheer us on, share the link, and help us keep paddling through the many hours afloat!

What did we achieve?
- Lots of fun!
- Lots of memories!
- 471.5 hours boating in total!
- 4x British Rowing Go Row 1 (Sliding Seat) qualifications,
- 2x British Rowing Go Row 2 (Sliding Seat) qualifications,
- 2x SCC Row 2 awards,
- 1x SCC Row 3 award,
- 5x RYA Youth Sailing Stage 1 qualifications,
- 3x RYA Youth Sailing Stage 2 qualifications.

An Unforgettable Visit to HMS Queen Elizabeth - May 2025

A group of our cadets had the incredible opportunity to visit the Royal Navy’s HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier – an experience that will stay with us for a long time!

From exploring the impressive spaces aboard to engaging discussions with serving personnel, the visit offered our cadets an invaluable insight into Royal Navy life and career routes.

The professionalism, knowledge and hospitality of the personnel made a lasting impact, inspiring our cadets and fuelling their ambitions for the future. The cadets had lots of opportunity to ask questions and gain valuable advice.

A huge thank you to the Royal Navy Recruit and Attract team for organising this visit, and to the fantastic ratings and officers who generously gave us a tour of the ship!