Volunteer Cadet Corps

Volunteer Cadet Corps The Volunteer Cadet Corps (VCC) is a Royal Navy sponsored MOD youth organisation formed in 1901 and based in a number of RN establishments around the UK.

The VCC is a Royal Navy sponsored youth organisation based across a number of Naval establishments in Hampshire and Devon. At its height, the VCC had units in almost every Naval establishment along the South Coast:

HMS Collingwood
HMS Daedalus
HMS Dolphin
HMS Dryad
HMS Excellent
HMS Nelson
HMS Pembroke
HMS Sultan
HMS Vernon
RM Chatham
RM Deal
RM Eastney
RM Forton (Gosport)
RM Lympstone
RM Stoneho

use

The VCC has shrunk along with the Naval estate although we aim to open new units over the next few years.

A Red Extreme Heat Warning has been issued by the Met Office for Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures expected to e...
23/06/2026

A Red Extreme Heat Warning has been issued by the Met Office for Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures expected to exceed 39°C.

All cadets, volunteers and staff are reminded to take extra precautions and remain alert to the signs of heat-related illness. Activities must be continually assessed, with training adapted, reduced or cancelled where conditions make it unsafe to continue.

⚠️ Watch for:
• Headache, dizziness or confusion
• Feeling sick or loss of appetite
• Excessive sweating and clammy skin
• Muscle cramps

If someone shows signs of heat illness, stop the activity, move them to a cool shaded area, begin cooling measures immediately and seek medical assistance if required.

Stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing, use sun protection and take regular breaks in the shade.

For further guidance, please refer to VCP203: Preventing and Managing Climatic Illnesses.

☀️🌡️

This week marks the start of Armed Forces Week, a time to recognise and celebrate the dedication, professionalism and sa...
23/06/2026

This week marks the start of Armed Forces Week, a time to recognise and celebrate the dedication, professionalism and sacrifice of the Armed Forces community.

At the Volunteer Cadet Corps, we are proud of our long-standing connection to the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, and of the role our cadets and volunteers play in developing the next generation through adventure, discipline, leadership and service.

Throughout the week, we join the nation in thanking serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadet force adult volunteers and military families for their commitment and contribution to our country.

From all of us at the Volunteer Cadet Corps, thank you for your service.

Congratulations to Zoë – Gosport Young Citizen of the Year! 🌟We are delighted to celebrate Colour Sergeant (VCC) Zoë M’s...
20/06/2026

Congratulations to Zoë – Gosport Young Citizen of the Year! 🌟

We are delighted to celebrate Colour Sergeant (VCC) Zoë M’s recognition as Gosport Young Citizen of the Year, an award that reflects her outstanding commitment to volunteering, leadership and youth development within the Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps.

Since joining the VCC in 2019, joining Band of the Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps Gosport, Zoë has progressed from cadet to adult volunteer, serving in a variety of roles and helping to inspire and support the next generation of young people. Most recently, as Second-in-Command of Gosport Division Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps, she has played a key role in strengthening the unit and enhancing opportunities for cadets to meet the challenge.

This award from Mayor of Gosport, Cllr Kirsten Bradley, is a fitting recognition of her dedication, service and positive impact on both the VCC and the wider community.

Congratulations, Zoë, and thank you for your exceptional service. 👏

What a day! ⚓️Thank you to everyone who joined us on Saturday 13 June at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard to celebrate 125 y...
17/06/2026

What a day! ⚓️

Thank you to everyone who joined us on Saturday 13 June at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard to celebrate 125 years of the Volunteer Cadet Corps.

From drill displays and field gun demonstrations to first aid scenarios, music performances and interactive exhibits, Cadet Fest 2026 showcased the very best of the cadet experience and the incredible young people at its heart.

A huge thank you to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard for hosting us, and to our friends from the Army Cadets UK, Sea Cadets, NAAFI, Royal Navy STEM, Association of Wrens and Volunteer Cadet Corps for supporting the event with displays and activities throughout the day.

We were also delighted to welcome supporters and VIP guests from Captain Sea Cadets, The Connaught Trust, Shaping Portsmouth, South East RFCA and Royal Navy Cadet Forces.

Most importantly, thank you to every cadet and volunteer from across the VCC, Sea Cadets and Army Cadet Force who took part in the arena displays and performances. Your confidence, commitment and teamwork made this event truly unforgettable.

As we celebrate our 125th year, Cadet Fest was a powerful reminder of the impact that cadet organisations continue to have on young people and communities across the UK.

⚓️ Inspiring Young People Since 1901

📸 Photo Credit: Kevin Poolman

Footnote:
Cadet weapon handling is conducted under qualified supervision as part of a structured training programme that promotes safety, responsibility and discipline at all times.

🥁 A Proud Milestone for Band of RMVCC Scotland 🥁This week marked a significant moment for the newly formed Band of the R...
14/06/2026

🥁 A Proud Milestone for Band of RMVCC Scotland 🥁

This week marked a significant moment for the newly formed Band of the Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps Scotland as they held their first Pass Out Parade at HMS Caledonia.

A number of cadets proudly took to the parade ground, demonstrating the commitment, discipline and dedication required to ‘Be Worthy’ in front of their families, friends and supporters. Their hard work and determination were evident throughout the parade and reflected the high standards expected of the VCC.

The parade was inspected by Lieutenant Commander Megan Burgoyne Royal Navy - Officer Commanding (North) University Royal Navy Units - whose presence helped make the occasion even more special for the cadets and staff involved.

Congratulations to every cadet who passed out, and to the instructors and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to establish and develop the band. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey for Band of RMVCC Scotland, and we look forward to seeing the band continue to grow and thrive.

Cadet Fest 2026 is this Saturday at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard! ⚓The weather forecast is looking fantastic, and we’re ...
12/06/2026

Cadet Fest 2026 is this Saturday at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard! ⚓

The weather forecast is looking fantastic, and we’re expecting a busy day as we celebrate the 125th Anniversary of the Volunteer Cadet Corps alongside our friends from the Sea Cadets and Army Cadets UK.

📍Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
🎟️ FREE Community Event

🚌 If you’re planning to drive, we encourage you to use the Park & Ride which stops at the Hard Interchange as parking at the Historic Dockyard is limited and expected to fill quickly. Portsmouth has great public transport links from buses and trains, which stop just outside the Historic Dockyard.

🍔 A variety of food and drink outlets will be available throughout the day, including cafés and catering facilities across the site.

🎤 Enjoy a full programme of displays throughout the day including:

🎺 Band of the RMVCC Performances
⚓ Unarmed & Continuity Drill Displays
🪖 Royal Marines Cadet Drill
🚑 First Aid & CASEVAC Demonstrations
💥 Field Gun Demonstrations
🎯 Tactical Demonstrations
🇬🇧 Colour Party Display

The day culminates with the VCC 125 Parade and Cadet Fest Muster at 2:15pm.

☀️ The forecast is looking lovely, so don’t forget sunscreen or hats and plenty of water!

We look forward to welcoming you for what promises to be a fantastic day of cadet displays, music and celebration.

11/06/2026

Earlier this week, the Volunteer Cadet Corps was proud to attend, present and be showcased at the Shaping Forces Conference 2026.

Bringing together employers, organisations and members of the Armed Forces community, the conference explored how local businesses can benefit from employing and supporting members of the Armed Forces community while strengthening connections across the city.

Working in partnership with Shaping Portsmouth, we were delighted to unveil a specially commissioned video showcasing the impact and importance of the cadet force movement. The film highlighted the opportunities, skills, confidence and sense of belonging that cadet organisations provide to young people, helping them develop into the leaders, volunteers and professionals of tomorrow.

The VCC was also pleased to engage with delegates throughout the day, sharing how the cadet experience supports personal development, community engagement and social mobility.

We are honoured to represent the cadet community and to champion the positive difference that cadet forces continue to make to the lives of young people, their families and the wider community.

A huge thank you to Shaping Portsmouth and everyone involved in organising such an inspiring and impactful event.

📹 credit to Charlie Keane, Kate M and Hannah Jeffrey

Cadets from HMS Sultan Royal Naval Volunteer Cadet Corps recently had the incredible opportunity to board RFA Proteus du...
10/06/2026

Cadets from HMS Sultan Royal Naval Volunteer Cadet Corps recently had the incredible opportunity to board RFA Proteus during a visit to Portland Port UK.

RFA Proteus is a unique specialist vessel operated by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Entering service in 2023, she supports a range of important tasks including deep-sea surveillance, underwater operations, and the protection of critical subsea infrastructure. As one of the newest and most advanced vessels in the RFA fleet, Proteus plays a vital role in supporting the UK’s maritime security interests.

The cadets had a fantastic time exploring the vessel, meeting members of the Ship’s Company, and gaining a deeper understanding of the crucial role played by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary in supporting Royal Navy operations around the world.

A huge thank you to the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, the Commanding Officer of RFA Proteus, and the Ship’s Company for your time, hospitality, and for inspiring our next generation.

It’s experiences like these that help our young people truly appreciate the important work of the Royal Navy and its supporting organisations while providing a valuable insight into life at sea and careers within the maritime sector. ⚓🇬🇧

08/06/2026

🎉 Join us this Saturday for Cadet Fest at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard!

As part of our 125th anniversary celebrations, Cadet Fest promises a fantastic day for cadets, families, supporters and the local community.

Explore a wide range of stalls, enjoy displays and demonstrations from across the Volunteer Cadet Corps, and meet representatives from other Cadet Forces as we come together to showcase the opportunities available to young people.

From hands-on activities and exhibits to live displays and performances, there will be something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day.

📍 Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
📅 Saturday 13 June
⏰ 10:00–16:00

Come along, discover what makes the VCC special, and help us celebrate 125 years of developing young people through adventure, leadership and service.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Address

Royal Navy Cadet Force, First Floor, Cockerel Building, HMS SULTAN, Military Road
Gosport
PO123BY

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