On 5th and 6th October 2026, cadets from the Taunton School Royal Navy CCF Section headed south to HMS Raleigh for two days of afloat training at Jupiter Point. The dates coincided with the start of the first National Cadet Week where cadet force successes are being celebrated across the country.

Our Year 13s took to the water in powerboats and spent time getting to grips with the essential ‘bumps and grinds’ of boat handling. From ‘man overboard drills’ and ‘stemming a buoy’ to coming alongside and turning in confined spaces, there was plenty to master. Once they had found their sea legs, they took the helm for a longer passage past Devonport Dockyard putting their skills into practice while navigating the River Tamar and its three chain ferries.

Our Year 11s meanwhile had their first real taste of dinghy sailing. They learnt the delicate art of balancing the boat, taking the helm and controlling the mainsheet while simultaneously attempting to remain upright! They even received some expert tuition from our very own experienced Year 13 sailor, Cadet Petty Officer Maddie.

Everyone had a fantastic time, with plenty of new skills learnt along the way. Best of all, despite giving both sailing and powerboating a good go, not a single cadet managed to capsize or fall overboard!

A thoroughly successful couple of days on the water and a great way to begin National Cadet Week.

Lt Cdr Dunn CCF (RN), Contingent Deputy Commander