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TESCO vouchers campaign launched
TESCO have launched their School Club Vouchers campaign, and Caterham Sea Cadets are collecting them.
The scheme allows eligible clubs to collect vouchers and trade them in for items of equipment, such as sports equipment, computer items, etc.
Whilst it has not yet been decided which items we hope to gain, collecting vouchers now will start the ball rolling. The cadets will be given the vote on which items we apply for (dependent on getting enough vouchers).
The collecting point is at HQ1, which is the visitors desk at the Main Entrance. Please bring your vouchers in as you get them - 1 for every £10 spent.
The Cadet vote on the items to be obtained will take place in late-April.
[Posted 14 March at 16:01hrs]
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Minibus appeal
An urgent public appeal was launched this week by TS ZEPHYR in the wake of the recent MOT-failure of its minibus, which will have “far-reaching” consequences for the Unit.
The 15 year old bus failed its MOT “catastrophically” and would have cost so much to repair that the Committee unanimously agreed to its prompt sale. Without a bus, and £5000 short of target, the Unit has promptly received support from the local media in publicising the plight.
Cadets and volunteers have been raising money for two years to replace the minibus, and had a number of initiatives in place to secure the remainder this year. Unfortunately, the £15,000 already raised through door-to-door, street collections and sponsored events still leaves the Unit short by £5000, and local businesses are being asked to help keep the Unit afloat.
Speaking to the Caterham Independent, the Commanding Officer said "The boating season is fast approaching but without a bus we will not be able to get to all of the activities our cadets are involved with, nor be able to tow our boats back and forth each parade night.”
“We are going to be beneficiaries of this year's Caterham Carnival, but unfortunately that will be too late to provide the funds we need now. We were hoping our old bus would last us a few months longer, but the cost of repairs would be phenomenal so it has gone to the big garage in the sky. Our success this season rests with us securing donations this month."
The Unit has done a fantastic job in raising £15,000 and it is hoped that a local business or donor will come to our aid before this year really kicks in. Anyone who feels able to assist should contact the CO Aaron Clarke or Chairman Tony Skilbeck on 07834 827654 or 01883 335945.
[Posted 28 February at 13:53hrs]
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Regatta Night success
Over £100 was raised in one evening in the trial run for a fundraising event on behalf of the Caterham Carnival, last Saturday evening.
PSA Chair, Andrea Frost, organised a Regatta Race night for parents and staff to iron out any problems for a forthcoming fundraiser, and it was such a success that £110 was raised for the PSA fund, which supports Unit activities by providing financial support.
The “live” Regatta Race Night will take place on Saturday 20 March at Unit HQ, and the limited 60 tickets are being sold on a first-come first-serve basis. At a cost of only £4, it is a cheap evening but a thoroughly enjoyable one.
Check out the flier for details and get in touch if you’d like a ticket. There won’t be any available on the door, and must be pre-purchased. Spaces are limited and 20 have already been sold.
[Posted 28 February at 13:45hrs]
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Caterham Carnival beneficiaries
Caterham Sea Cadets were announced as one of the beneficiaries of this year’s Caterham Carnival, it was recently announced.
The Carnival, held on Westway Common annually attracts around 10,000 visitors and is being held this year on Saturday 12 June 2010 as part of the larger Caterham Festival. Beneficiaries of the carnival, consisting of local charities and groups, receive the proceeds raised from the Carnival.
This year’s beneficiaries are Caterham Sea Cadets, the Chaldon Scouts, Old Caterhamians RFC and Queens Park FC youth teams. Caterham Sea Cadets is a registered charity, and stands to receive a quarter of the proceeds. Last year, the proceeds amounted to £8000.
As beneficiaries, the Unit will be involved in fundraising in the lead-up to the event, as well as being heavily involved in the running of the day.
Caterham Unit have big plans to make the most of the exposure, and as well as the financial incentive, it is an excellent opportunity to improve our publicity and recruit some new faces, cadet or adult.
Further details of our plans for the day will follow, so watch out for regular updates.
[Posted 28 February at 13:41hrs]
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Captain visits Caterham
Friday 22 January saw the first visit to TS ZEPHYR of Captain Sea Cadets in 12 years, to present the first Burgee achieved in 20 years.
Captain Mark Windsor RN, recently appointed as Captain Sea Cadets, is the first serving Royal Navy Captain in a show of support by the RN to the Sea Cadet movement. He was pleased to accept an invitation, and found time from his busy schedule to visit the Unit for the Annual Presentations.
After being officially received, Captain Windsor toured the recently-refurbished HQ and met with many of the cadets. He received some handy ironing tips from New Entry Andrew Russell (pictured) before a short education on whipping and splicing by Ordinary Cadet Josh Fautley.
Following the presentation of the Annual Awards to our deserving cadets, he presented the efficiency Burgee for 2009 to Sub Lieutenant Aaron Clarke, before it was bent on and run up the mast by our youngest cadet, Cadet Kiera Hartnup – the start of a new tradition at Caterham.
Before taking his leave, the Captain spent a considerable amount of time chatting with parents and supporters, members of the local RN Association, staff and committee members. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening, and a credit to the Unit in running such a sleek event so soon after Christmas leave. BZ to all!
[Posted 28 February at 13:37hrs]
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2010 arrives at Caterham
Caterham Sea Cadets will resume business as usual, following the Christmas and New Year break, but with both feet running as a busy programme commences.
The Unit re-opens on Tuesday 12 January 2010 after the holiday closure, and it's straight back to business with the Annual Awards Presentation and a visit by Captain Sea Cadet, with a Residential Training Weekend thrown in to boot. The Unit Calendar has been published and is available here.
With all of this activity, it will be February before we know it. And with everything that is going on, parents and cadets are reminded to return their Major Activity sheets ASAP if they have not already done so - a copy can be downloaded here if your dog has eaten it etc etc.
We look forward to seeing the Cadets on Tuesday 12, and for our parents to join us at the Annual Presentations on Friday 22 January at 1900.
On behalf of the Staff and Unit Management Team, we hope you had a peaceful Christmas and wish you a prosperous 2010.
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Caterham Officially a Top Unit
It has been a long and difficult path, with some dark times and difficult decisions, but the view from the summit finally came for the Ship’s Company of Caterham Unit with news that it had “won” a Burgee efficiency status in 2009, putting the Unit amongst the top 25% in the UK.
The Unit has undergone significant change over the last 2 years; an entire management restructure, the introduction of stringent health and safety, the recruitment and development of 12 volunteers, financial building and equipment projects set at three times the Annual income and the introduction of a web-based administration system known as Westminster.
All of this whilst the cadets were achieving the highest number of qualifications and skills in the Unit’s history, an average of 6.1 qualifications per cadet (the National average is 3), fundraising for numerous projects, maintaining strong links and affiliations with the Royal Navy Association, the Unit’s affiliated ship and the local community!! It has truly been a team effort from everyone connected with TS ZEPHYR.
All 400 Sea Cadet Units in the UK are inspected annually, with Units achieving a Burgee, a Pennant or nothing. The Unit has been a consistent Pennant Unit throughout its recent history, and for the first time in 20 years, a Burgee – the top accolade - will be flying from the mast. The Burgee will be presented to the Unit by the Captain of the Corps in a ceremony in January.
The CO and Chairman, together, announced the results of the report and offered a huge well done to the Unit Management Team, Volunteer Staff, Parents and Supporters, and of course (and most importantly) the Cadets themselves. BZ to everyone!
The full report can be read by clicking here.
[Posted 28 November 2009 at 11:56hrs]
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Lord Lieutenant Award
It was smiles and celebrations last week, Wednesday 18 November 2009, when a long-serving member of staff received recognition for his voluntary work over many decades, in a ceremony held at Farnham TA Centre.
Civilian Instructor Jim Greenfield, aged 71, received a Lord Lieutenant’s Meritorious Certificate following a recommendation by his Commanding Officer.
Having joined the Army Cadets at age 13, he went on to join the Royal Horse Artillery where he learned his band skills. After leaving the Army, he continued his dedication as a Company Sergeant Major in the TA and Army Cadets, before joining Caterham Sea Cadets in 1996 to rejuvenate the Unit band.
His civilian status means that CI Greenfield is ineligible for the Cadet Forces Medal for long service, and the award by the Lord Lieutenant, the Queen’s representative in Surrey, is a high recognition of the many years of service to Surrey’s community.
In an emotional ceremony, Jim received the award in front of friends and family from the Lord Lieutenant Mrs Sarah Goad JP (pictured above).
Anyone with band skills and willing to spare a couple of hours a month is urged to get in touch to support Jim in keeping the band a central part of Caterham Sea Cadets and Caterham’s community.
[Posted 28 November 2009 at 11:47hrs]
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Captain to visit "local Unit"
Caterham Unit are privileged to be receiving the new Captain of the Corps as the Guest of Honour at our forthcoming Annual Presentation evening, the first head of the Sea Cadets to visit Caterham since 1998.
Captain Mark Windsor BSc Royal Navy, is a serving Captain in the Royal Navy and recently took up post as Captain Sea Cadets.
Based at the London Headquarters, Captain Windsor is responsible for the operational running of the Sea Cadets following a prestigious posting in Afghanistan.
Our Annual Awards Presentation, developed and expanded upon 2 years ago, will see a number of Caterham cadets recognised for their endeavours and achievements in 2009. The awards are decided by the Staff, and typically the decisions are tough with so many deserving cadets.
It is hoped that the results of our recent Royal Navy Parade will also have been received, and that Captain Windsor will present our efficiency award as well. Fingers crossed that we have done well!
Caterham being the closest geographic Unit to where the Captain lives, Captain Windsor was pleased to accept an invitation “up the road” and will hopefully present some of our Annual Awards on Friday 22 January 2010.
[Posted 17 November 2009 at 23:14hrs]
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Powering Up Skills
As the number and range of qualifications amongst the cadets soars, investment has continued in the qualifications of those dedicated to delivering training to the cadets – our adult volunteers.
During the October half term, Petty Officers Richard Fearis and Will Bradstreet spent the week improving their powerboat handling skills at HMS RALEIGH, the Royal Navy Recruit training establishment in Plymouth.
The two young Petty Officers, who recently joined the staff team when they were too old to be cadets, undertook their RYA Power Intermediate course, which covers high speed and close-confine boat handling skills, navigation and generally getting wet!
With the number of cadets gaining RYA Power level 2 (the equivalent of a driving licence for boats), it is essential that the staff team are at least one step ahead of the game to ensure we can always offer improved skills and qualifications to the cadets themselves.
Well done, gents; another couple of useful qualifications which will be put to good use during the next boating season in 2010.
[Posted 17 November 2009 at 22:48hrs]
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Caterham Unit Remembers
Caterham Unit remembered those who had given their lives in two world wars, and remembered those men and women who are currently serving in the theatre of war, at a Remembrance Parade in Caterham-on-the-Hill.
Caterham Sea Cadets lead the cadet force contingent, with Petty Officer Richard Fearis carrying the Unit's Standard - the first time it has been paraded since it was presented to the Unit by the Commanding Officer, Sub Lieutenant(SCC) Aaron Clarke RNR.
A wreath was laid by Cadet Hannah Jones and County Councillor John Orrick commented on how smartly it had been done; going so far as to say she was the smartest of all the cadet forces, and had even shown the others what they needed to do! Well done, Hannah!
Finally, the Unit marched back to Town End to give the salute, and as the picture shows, everyone managed to keep in step and demonstrate that Sea Cadets are a cut above the rest. Luckily the weather held and everyone returned to the unit HQ dry and feeling a proud sense of duty.
[Posted 8 November 2009 at 19:06hrs]
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RNP Success
Parents, Guests and VIPs were all smiles after the Cadets drew to a close their Royal Navy Parade, having impressed all with their smartness, enthusiasm and sense of fun.
The Royal Navy Parade, an efficiency inspection of the Unit, was held on Tuesday 3 November 2009 with the Area Officer, Commander Andy Giles Royal Navy, attending as the Inspecting Officer. Other guests included representatives of the Lions Club, the Royal Navy Association, Church Walk Shopping Centre and Crawley Mariners Yacht Club. The Sea Cadet's Director of Business Management, John Parker-Jones, also managed to attend from Sea Cadet Headquarters.
After being received formally by "a very smartly turned out guard", Commander Giles went on to inspect the remainder of the Ship's Company before touring the recently refurbished Headquarters.
After a short tea-stop, guests were entertained by a pantomime entitled "Peter Pan and the Army Cadets" the display lasted 22 minutes, included every single cadet and was choreographed by Petty Officer Kieran Miles and Able Cadet Kimberley Haggard. It included dancing, and a far-from embarrassing cross-dressing senior cadet (who will remain unnamed) as Tinkerbell. Guests commented on how fun, professional and colourful the display had been, and Commander Giles said "it is possibly the best display I have seen in my sixteen months as Area Officer".
After Evening Colours, bugled by Petty Officer Cadet Sam Flint (our Senior Cadet.....), the Chairman of the local Lions club presented a donation of £1000 before the Area Officer gave his closing "well done" to all in attendance.
The results of the RNP will be known within the next few weeks, and with the effort and significant positive change at Caterham over the last 12 months, it is hoped the results will be symbolic in the future of the Unit.
Pictures of the evening will shortly be available in our Picture Gallery.
[Posted 6 November at 18:02hrs]
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£1000 Donation Received
The Minibus fund has reached £12,068 following the recent donation of £1000 from the Caterham, Oxted and Godstone Lions.
Chairman of the Lions Club, Alan Turton, presented the cheque to Commanding Officer Sub Lieutenant Aaron Clarke RNR after hearing of the Unit's plight in trying to secure funds for a much needed bus.
"The Community Service Committee were unanimous in supporting this worthwhile venture" said Alan as he handed the cheque over during the recent Royal Navy Parade at the Unit HQ.
The Unit Management Team has focused their attention on raising the £15,000 needed to replace our aged bus, which is used to transport cadets to activities on a twice-weekly basis.
Speaking of the donation, the Commanding Officer said "This is a significant donation, and we are immensely grateful to the Lions for their generosity". The treasurer was prompt in banking the cheque!
[Posted 6 November 2009 at 15:15hrs]
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Recruitment Initiative Launched
Caterham Sea Cadets has launched a wide recruitment campaign for both Sea Cadets and Juniors for the first time in over 2 years. This includes visiting local schools, and displaying posters and other advertising around the Caterham, Coulsdon, Warlingham and Whyteleafe area.
Numbers remain steady, and with a strong team of adult volunteers gaining a range of qualifications, now is the time to build upon the strong base of cadets we have at the Unit.
Caterham Unit has enjoyed lots of success recently, with cadets benefiting from a very busy schedule of activities and events.
The Unit also received recognition as a "residential weekend" Unit, enabling Caterham cadets to sleep at the Unit for weekend training for activities such as Marine Engineering, First Aid and other technical specialisations.
Those youngsters who are on our waiting list will receive a letter inviting them to attend the Unit on Friday 7 November, and anyone else wishing to get involved should come along at 7pm too.
Juniors is open to youngsters aged 10 and 11; Sea Cadets is open to those 12 and above. Existing cadets are encouraged to "bring a friend" - if you enjoy coming along, we're sure your friends will too!
[Posted 29 October at 13:23hrs]
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Pirates Day
Caterham Sea Cadets were busy again for pirates day this year in Church walk, Caterham.
The challenge of raising funds for the units new minibus continued as the cadets, smartly rigged in the their No 1 uniform, collected a fantastic £600!
The centerpeice of the unit ASC converted into a privateer made an impressive display and recruitment aid: Although if we recieved a donation of one pound for everytime we heard "So...you guys expecting rain today?", we would have been able to tow the ASC back to the unit with the new bus at the end of the day!
[Posted 19 October at 16:20hrs]
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Family Day 09
The Ships company of T.S. Zephyr along with their family's and friend's enjoyed a fantastic day at Victoria Docks in London.
The cadets relished the oppurtunitiy to amaze their parents with the boating skills they had obtained over the summer and spent the day in a variety of small craft putting what they had learned into practise.
Despite the somewhat gloomy weather the day was a roaring success and many parents expressed that they had no idea that the cadets were so caperble on the water: Somthing that became apparent as they were ferried around on Champs, lasers, outboards and rafts all helmed and crewed by Caterham cadets.
Thanks go to the members of the PSA for manning the barbacue, the unit Commitee members and the unit staff for their contribution throughout the day. Finally, thank you to everybody who came and we hope that you had fantastic on the water having serious fun with the Sea Cadets!
[Posted 16 October 09 at 13:15hrs]
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TS ZEPHYR at Navy Days
Adults and Cadets from Caterham Unit spent the weekend at HM Naval Base Devenport during Navy Days, the two-day event where the secrets of the Royal Navy are revealed to the public.
Staying onboard the units affiliated ship RFA MOUNTS BAY the cadets assisted with various tasks around the dockyard. There was also ample time for the cadets to tour the other respective ships present, such as HMS DARING the navy's brand new Type 45 destroyer and HNLMS WALRUS, a visiting Dutch submarine.
Check out the photo gallery for some great pictures of a great weekend!
[Posted 10 September 09 at 12:25hrs]
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Unit Closure as Cadets Head for Navy Days
Caterham Unit will be closed on Friday 4 September as cadets and staff head to Plymouth for Navy Days 2009, and in particular their affiliated ship RFA MOUNTS BAY.
The Unit seized the opportunity to stay aboard MOUNTS BAY for the first time since September 2006 alongside cadets from Units across South-West Area.
The Unit will resume on Tuesday 8 September.
Check out the photo gallery for some pictures recently sent from the ship as the centre piece of Bournemouth air show.
[Posted 2 September 09 at 17:05hrs]
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Minibus Fund Well Underway
Hopes of purchasing a newer minibus took a step closer following the recent Unit Management Team meeting on Wednesday 12 August, when it was revealed we are almost at £10,000.
The Unit hopes to purchase a 17-seater minibus to assist in transporting cadets to vital activity centres, such as Victoria Docks and Hedgecourt lake, where cadets undertaking boating activities.
The Unit is currently operating two 12-seater minibuses which are both nearly 15 years old, at an annual cost of £1200 (and that is without fuel or repairs).
The UMT have decided to get rid of one bus after the summer and pass the money saved to the fund. They also decided to delay purchasing in the hope of raising further funds for a better bus, perhaps as early as Spring.
Whilst we are aiming for £20,000 it is widely known that as little as £14,000 would buy us a reasonable quality vehicle which could last us for quite some years.
Fundraising efforts have included house-to-house collections, street collections and sponsored events. Letters to potential donors have resulted in a number of small donations, which have been gratefully received.
Commanding Officer, Sub Lieutenant Aaron Clarke, urged anyone wishing to top up the fund to come forward and make a donation.
Cheques should be made payable to "Caterham Sea Cadets", or please contact the CO or Unit Chairman, Tony Skilbeck, either at the Unit in person, by telephone or using the email address at the bottom of this page if you wish to discuss a donation in more detail.
[Posted 15 August 09 at 20:44hrs]
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Summer Sail - Must End Soon
The last two weeks have seen frantic boating, with multiple qualifications in all manner of boatwork, as the Summer Holidays ebb away.
On Sunday 2 August, four Caterham cadets travelled 420 miles to Fife, Scotland, to take part in the week-long District Summer Camp held at HMS CALEDONIA.
With nearly 40 cadets from across the Surrey area, it was a recipe for smiling faces, new friends, kayaking and powerboating qualifications. And a haggis was apparently spotted too!
Then, it was to Victoria Docks in East London last week for a further seven cadets, who enjoyed three glorious days of sailing, racing and generally getting wet!
With a mixture of novice and experienced sailors, the first few days proved pretty tough for everyone, but those new to sheets, booms and gybing took to it like a duck.... yes you guessed it!
Dropping in on Thursday, ADO(T) for Surrey, CPO Jill Loveridge joined in the fun and was pleased to present seven Youth Sailing Stage 1 and 2 RYA qualifications at the end of the day. Coupled with three RYA powerboating level 2 and a BCU 1 star kayak qualification from the previous week, it has been a whirlwind fortnight of fun on the high seas.
Pictured above, at Victoria Dock: Left to right Ordinary Cadet Holman, Cadet Piper and Leading Cadet Flint line up for the first race of the day.
[Posted 15 August 09 at 20:16hrs]
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Cadets attend Courses at HMS BRISTOL
Cadets and Staff from Caterham Unit spent the weekend at HMS Bristol in Portsmouth taking part in First Aid and IM (Instructional Methods) Courses.
Everybody had a fantastic time, especially our new cadets who got to experiance what it's like living on a real warship.
Congratulations go to all who attended the weekend for successfully passing their courses and gaining valuable qualifications. The Training centre staff at Whale Island were very impressed with the standard of the cadets during their stay and stated that they would welcome us back any time.
[Posted 2 August 09 at 14:45hrs]
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T.S. IVESTON
Cadets attended the annual TS Iveston course (A minesweeper berthed at Tilbury Docks, London) and came away having earned a collection of useful qualifications that will help them on towards promotion.
Ordinary Cadet Frost passed her Power boating level 1, Cadet Milne achieved his 3rd class communications and Cadet Flint gained further hours towards his pulling coxswain's assesment later this year.
Needless to say all cadets had a great time and came away recomending Iveston to the other cadets at the unit.
[Posted 20 July 09 at 16:15hrs]
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P&0 Cruise
Last weekend several cadets and staff from TS Zephyr were invited onboard the Pride of Calais for a crossing to France and back.
The day got off to an interesting start when, due to P&O placing their Dover HQ in a strange place, we unfortunatly missed our ferry. However the day was saved as we were invited onboard the next ferry the Pride of Canterbury.
Despite being unprepared for us members of the crew made us very welcome and immediately got off to a good start with everybody, by giving us a free run of the self service resturant! We then enjoyed an interesting tour into spaces of the ship where the public wouldn't normally veture such as the stores, the crew quarters and other decks that gave an interesting insight into life on a RORO (roll-on-roll-off) ferry.
The day was such a success that the Canturbury has invited the unit back for second visit where we can see more areas of the ship, and to try out their emergency evacuation system (a series of huge helter-skelter like chutes) when they are next over-hauled.
[Posted 29 June 09 at 16:00hrs ]
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Urgent Appeal - Thursday 19 March
The Unit needs the help of all cadets, parents and supporters for next weeks door-to-door cash collection. The committment so far has been very disappointing.
"People think we receive money from the Navy but this is simply not true" explains the Commanding Officer. "We are an individual charity solely dependant on the charitable good will of our community, and the hard work of our supporters."
"We get no money whatsoever from the Navy and it costs a lot just to keep the doors open, so much that our Subs don't even scratch the surface."
Appealing for support, SLt Clarke added "We are quick to reap the benefits of our spends, but no so quick to raise the necessary cash. I expect all cadets to contribute to the effort, and appeal to parents, friends and neighbours to support their cadets by helping as well."
"It's only for a couple of hours in an evening, and your support will be gratefully received. We will even trade your collecting tin for soup and drinks upon your return to the Unit."
Collecting is from 18:30 to 20:30 Monday to Friday evening, starting and finishing at Unit HQ. If you can't come down until later, please still come down!
If you need more information, you are urged to contact the CO directly on 07834 827654 or call into the Unit to pledge your support. Every penny counts!
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Ark de Triumph
Caterham Cadets got the opportunity to visit HMS ARK ROYAL in January, with the lucky cadets embarking on a 4-day voyage from Portsmouth to Liverpool.
Laiden with Sea Cadets and CCF from around the UK, including places as far away as Leeds... Able Cadet Haggard, Ordinary Cadet Rose, Cadet Frost and Cadet Flint managed to find their sea legs during the journey, exploring all areas of the ship including its fleet of helicopters.
The cadets were chosen by the CO because of their dedication to the Unit, having participated in the most fundraising events in 2008. Caterham Unit is a charity, dependant entirely on donations, and the contribution of the Cadets is vital in keeping our doors open.
We have it on good authority that, despite the occasional bout of sickness, they fully enjoyed their time at sea.... after all, they are Sea Cadets!
[Posted 19 March 09 at 12:09hrs]
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Boats Fleet Expands
TS ZEPHYR is poised to hit the water with a splash when the new boating season starts in April, thanks to some welcome investment and additions to its boating fleet.
Last year, the Unit Management Team financially supported the personal development of waterbourne qualification, financially supporting Petty Officer Miles in obtaining his Pulling Instructor qualification, and buying into Victoria Docks, London, resulting in a number of Powerboating qualifications.
This winter has seen the arrival of an additional ASC and most recently a Jeanneau powerboat with a 15hp outboard engine, much to the glee of Leading Cadet Bradstreet. With the return from loan of our Pico at Reigate Unit and discussions being held about further enhancing the sailing portfolio, there is the potential for some serious fun this summer!
With qualified staff able to cover Pulling, Power and Sailing, and the development of our Kayak-qualified adults, the long-term strategy for boatwork is panning out well, particularly with the support of our most recent joiners to the adult volunteer team.
In 2008, we increased our boating hours by at least double (compared to 2007) through better resource and time-management. This year, with our boats capacity increased from 5 seats to 14, hours should begin to soar, creating opportunity for more experience amongst the cadets.
And for those not taking part in the boating? Adventure Training will be coming to the forefront of the summer programme with the aim of all Sea Cadets and Juniors being "out and about" on Friday evenings over the summer period.
[Posted 17 Mar 09 at 18:00hrs]
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Caterham wins Area Award
Staff from Caterham Unit who attended the annual Southern Area Conference, were both surprised and overwhelmed when Sub Lieutenant (SCC) Aaron Clarke Royal Naval Reserve was called to accept an award from the Captain of the Corps in front of several hundred delegates.
The Franklyn Plate is presented annually to the Unit that has “done well despite adversity”. TS ZEPHYR was singled out because of the immense challenges it has faced and overcome in the past 18 months, and the passion and dedication of it’s Commanding Officer in ensuring it’s survival and continuing success.
“Not only has the winning Unit undergone a complete restructure of its management team, both Committee and Uniformed Staff, under the leadership of its Commanding Officer, but has done so despite him suffering injuries in a serious car crash” said Major Andy Henderson, Deputy Area Officer.
To applause and cheers, and looking genuinely surprised, Sub Lieutenant Clarke spoke briefly with Captain Jonathan Fry RN, Captain of the Corps, before accepting the award on behalf of the Unit.
Sub Lieutenant Clarke said afterwards “I was very surprised but proud to accept this award. It is a reflection of the hard work that has been put in, not just by me, but everyone. We have kept the Unit running in difficult circumstances, and I look forward to our next award being the Most Improved Unit”.
The annual Conference is open to attendee’s from 70 Units across the Southern Area, with speakers from Headquarters and Area Office giving an insight into progress and the future direction of the Corps on many different matters. This year’s conference was well-attended.
Caterham were represented by the Commanding Officer, Chairman Tony Skilbeck and Petty Officer Graham Tanner. PO Cadet Richard Fearis, who joins the staff team in March, was also invited along to gain an insight into the world of the Adult Volunteer.
[Posted 6 Feb 09 at 2040 hrs]
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Case Study Volunteers Needed
We need you!
We are on the hunt for interesting stories and tales of ambitious adventure from Cadets and Volunteers across the country. It doesn't have to specifically relate to your unit but your experience with the cadets will have helped you to overcome adversity or achieve your potential.
If you would like your 15 mins of fame and potentially get involved in some national media work please get in touch with us and we will tell you a bit more about what is involved!
For more information contact Becky MacGibbon direct on email bmacgibbon@ms-sc.org or tel 020 7654 7065
[Posted 4 Mar 09 at 1824 hrs]
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Cadet Exchange
In July 2008, LC Miles went on the International Sea Cadet Exchange. He was lucky enough to go to Russia, where he spent two weeks mingling with cadets from as far away as America, Sweden, Russia and Canada. Diary excerpts and photographs are to follow!
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Whispers In The Wind
The May edition of Whispers In The Wind has now been published, and you can obtain an electronic copy by sending us your email address.
The bi-monthly newsletter is full of pictures, articles and useful information and is published by Caterham Sea Cadets to promote the full range of activities we offer.
Anyone can obtain a copy - but particularly encouraged are Cadets, Parents, Supporters and people from years gone by.
Full Colour Copies are available via email; black and white copies can be collected from the Unit.
If you have any articles or items for the July Edition, please email The Web Team.
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Update from RFA Mounts Bay
For the last 2 months RFA Mounts Bay has been away from the UK on a Spanish Navy led Amphibious Exercise. The deployment saw them loading troops and vehicles before conducting mock landings in the Mediterranean. They then headed to Brazil to link up with the Brazilian Navy to do the same thing. Third Officer Pebbles, Caterham's contact onboard Mounts Bay said of the drills,"It proved to be a very interesting exercise, working with and sometimes adapting to other Navies way of working."
Mounts Bay has now returned to the UK, and will shortly set sail to Falmouth for an maintenance period until mid July. After a number of port visits around the country, the crew will be taking part in various military exercises in the Autumn.
Have a look at the RFA Mounts Bay Section for some recent photos.
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Mounts Bay - Update
The Commanding Officer today received correspondance from RFA MOUNTS BAY, the Unit Affiliated Ship.
After deployment in the Arctic Region, and Scotland, RFA MOUNTS BAY has returned briefly to Portland before commencing a tour in warmer climates, off Spain and further afield!
The RFA MOUNTS BAY Commanding Officer, Captain Ross Ferris OBE, said "I very much regret that I will be unable to attend the TS ZEPHYR Presentation Evening. But in our absence we would like to support the Unit, and especially this presentation evening, materially."
Commenting on the Unit website, which is receiving over 25 hits a week, Captain Ferris added "Your site is very exciting now, and the many new initiatives are impressive. I hope that your appeal for adult helpers reaps rewards. I'm sure it will."
Click here to find out more about the adventures of RFA MOUNTS BAY and her crew.
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Vacancies - Feeling Charitable?
TS ZEPHYR is launching an ambitious attempt to attract new volunteers to the Unit, in the hope that additional Staff will further enable the continued growth of the Unit.
The Unit, in its 65th Year, has met an unprecedented increase in Cadet numbers, and are now at 30 Cadets and Juniors. That's 30 young people off the streets and working towards something worthwhile!
But as an independant Charity, we need assistance in managing the behind-the-scenes work. The Unit Management Committee are responsible for the building, the fundraising, legislative issues as well as media and PR. Many hands make light work, and we hope to obtain support from new members with or without experience!
Being a Charitable Trustee sounds scary, but its actually very straight-forward. Its about being part of a team, and doing a little bit towards the greater good. You will be involved in helping make some important decisions, assisting in shaping the lives of young people in Caterham and the surrounding areas. And we already have a wealth of experience who will give you their support and guidance.
"Charitable Trustees are an essential asset to Units and come from all walks of life. No experience is necessary, other than life experience, and full induction and training is given should you need it. Its a great way to use your skills to the advantage of others" said Commanding Officer, Sub-Lieutenant(SCC) Aaron Clarke RNR
"Anyone aged over 18 is eligible to apply. The first thing to do is come take a look and see what you think. If you're still interested, we can undergo the swift and necessary process of CRB checks (free of charge). Very quickly, you can be involved in working for the youngsters" he added.
Anyone who is interested should, in the first instance, contact the Commanding Officer by email or contact the Unit on 01883 345775.
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