News

South Shields Sea Cadets is proud to announce that Cadet Cpl Abbie has successfully passed her National Cadet Sergeants Board this weekend at Leek DTE (Defence Training Estate) in Staffordshire. Pending formal paperwork and westmintser approval, she will be promoted to the rank of Cadet Sergeant, the first to attend a board in person for some years. 

Abbie, who joined the Sea Cadets at the age of 10, has steadily risen through the ranks – beginning her journey as a Junior Cadet, moving on to become a Sea Cadet, and then progressing into the Royal Marines Cadet section. Her dedication, discipline, and leadership have consistently set her apart throughout her cadet career.

The National Cadet Sergeants Board is the final step in the Marine Cadet programme. Over the intensive weekend, Abbie underwent a series of demanding evaluations including a Weapons Handling Test, Night and Day Navigation Exercises, formal Lectures, Presentations, and a Written Paper – all designed to test both practical skills and leadership potential under pressure.

Passing this board is a significant milestone, marking Abbie as one of the senior cadets within our unit and preparing her for further leadership responsibilities within the Corps.

S/Lt (SCC) Stephen Dupear, Commanding Officer of South Shields Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets, said:
"Abbie's success at the National Cadet Sergeants Board is a testament to her determination, commitment, and outstanding leadership qualities. We are incredibly proud of her achievement and look forward to seeing what she accomplishes next. She has been an active member of our unit for nearly 7 years and in that time has proved herself to be a reliable, passionate and all round committed cadet."

For further information or to learn more about joining Sea Cadets, please contact:
South Shields Sea Cadets
Email: general@southshields-scc.co.uk
Website: www.seacadets.org/southshields

First Splash of the Season!

Over the weekend, some of our awesome adult volunteers and instructors took to the water for the first time this year to blow off the cobwebs and refresh their waterborne skills after the winter period off the water!

We’re thrilled to share that:

• 3 volunteers successfully passed their Powerboat Level 2 course!
• 2 more earned their Competent Crew Certificates!

With the boating season fast approaching, our team is now fully prepped and ready for a busy, fun-filled summer on the river—teaching, guiding and developing the skills of our amazing cadets!

Let the adventures begin!

From Cadet to Leader — Congratulations Jacob!

Join us in celebrating Petty Officer Cadet Jacob as he gets ready to take the next exciting step in his sea cadet journey — becoming an Adult Volunteer at South Shields Sea Cadets on his 18th birthday!

Jacob’s Sea Cadet adventure started over 6 years ago at Boldon School Division, later transferring to South Shields, where he’s grown into a confident, capable, and inspiring young leader.

Tonight, he was proudly presented with a Certificate of Achievement by S/Lt Dupear — recognising just how far he’s come!

Check out what Jacob has smashed in his cadet career:

• Rowing Competent Crew
• Paddle Discover
• RYA Powerboat Level 1 & 2
• RYA Youth Sailing Scheme Levels 1–4
• RYA Windsurfing Level 1 & 2
• First Aid (Basic to Advanced)
• Cadet Piping Instructor
• Engineering (Basic to Intermediate)
• Seamanship (Basic to Intermediate)
• Communication & Information Systems
• Catering (Basic)
• Mountain Biking (Basic)
• Peer Educator (Basic & Advanced)
• BTEC Level 1 & 2
• Petty Officer Cadet Promotion
• Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet 2024–2025

That’s not just a list — that’s a launchpad for life! Jacob’s built a toolbox of skills, knowledge, and confidence that will serve him forever — and now he’s setting his sights on becoming a Chef in the Royal Navy!

Could YOU be next?

South Shields Sea Cadets are thrilled to announce that Cadet Corporal Daniel has been selected as a Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet for Tyne and Wear for 2025 – marking the second year in a row that a cadet from our unit has received this prestigious honour.

Following in the footsteps of Leading Cadet Jacob, who served as Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet in 2024, Daniel’s appointment highlights the continued excellence and dedication of cadets at South Shields. The role is awarded to a select group of cadets who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, and service within their respective youth organisations.

Cadet Corporal Daniel will now support the Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear at high-profile civic and ceremonial events throughout the year. His responsibilities will include assisting at royal visits, military commemorations, and public engagements, as well as acting as an ambassador for the Royal Marines Cadets and young people in uniformed services.

This appointment is a reflection of Daniel’s hard work, professionalism, and the high standard of training provided by the unit. It also showcases the strength and consistency of South Shields Sea Cadets in developing future leaders and role models.

At the end of his year in post, Cadet Corporal Daniel will be invited to attend a royal reception – potentially at Buckingham Palace or another royal establishment – in recognition of his service and dedication.

We are incredibly proud of Daniel and what this says about the calibre of cadets here in South Shields. Congratulations on this remarkable achievement!

For further information or to learn more about joining Sea Cadets, please contact:
South Shields Sea Cadets
Email: general@southshields-scc.co.uk
Website: www.seacadets.org/southshields