A Day to Remember: First Sea Lord Cadet Investiture 2026

Every year, around 12 cadets are chosen from amongst 22,000 across the country. The CCF cadets chosen act as ambassadors, representing the CCF at national events, allowing them a rare glimpse into the careers of senior Royal Navy Officers.

We were extremely proud to watch Cadet Corporal Rosanagh Arbuthnott (Sherborne Girls School CCF), Cadet Warrant Officer Georgia Manton, (Northampton International Academy CCF) and Cadet Petty Officer Eleanor Pritchard (Churchers College CCF) being sworn in by First Sea Lord, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins KCB OBE ADC RM onboard the historic HMS Victory.

Becoming a First Sea Lord Cadet is one of the highest honours within the CCF Royal Navy and Royal Marines sections, and their selection has placed them amongst an exceptional group of young leaders, where they will also work together to help raise the profile of Naval Cadets.

Leading Lights

Speaking at the event, First Sea Lord, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins KCB OBE ADC RM commented “It is my great pleasure today to congratulate you on your selection as First Sea Lord Cadets, a programme that was established to recognise and develop outstanding young people with a strong interest in the Royal Navy and maritime leadership.

This distinction reflects not only your talent and dedication, but also the leadership, integrity, and commitment to Service that you have already demonstrated, you will gain a unique insight into senior naval leadership and the wider work of the Royal Navy. As First Sea Lord Cadets you will act as ambassadors for your peers, representing cadets at high-profile events, engaging with naval personnel, and promoting the values of service, leadership, and commitment.

The year ahead will be both demanding and rewarding, offering you opportunities to develop your skills and broaden your understanding of the Naval Service. I encourage you to approach every challenge with confidence, curiosity, and teamwork and I wish you every success in the year ahead.”

Making Memories

It was truly a day to remember – from being onboard the Admiral Lord Nelson’s historical ship HMS Victory to an unforgettable tour of HMS Dauntless (The Royal Navy’s second ship of the Daring Class) to making new friends with fellow First Sea Lord Cadets over a celebratory lunch, it was a day full of inspiring, unforgettable moments.

We are incredibly proud of our CCF cadets and wish them a huge congratulations. We can’t wait to see what the next year as First Sea Lord Cadets brings!