Gresham’s cadets visit HMS Trumpeter

The cadets were lucky enough to make the visit just before their half term break to the P2000 Archer-class patrol ship currently attached to the Cambridge University Royal Navy Unit.

They travelled to Ipswich, the ship’s home port, and spent the day travelling along the River Orwell to Felixstowe and Harwich.

The crew made the cadets feel at home, despite the cold and damp February weather, introducing them to the skills necessary for the day-to-day running of the ship. This included a tour of the engine room, basics of navigation, the procedures for helming the ship, and giving and receiving commands.

There was an opportunity for cadets to brush up on their first aid skills and to witness a practical demonstration of man overboard drills. They also learnt about damage control – what to do when there’s a hole in the side of the ship – and an insight into the regular Royal Navy’s weapon systems on warships.

Led by the ship’s captain, Lt Daniel Wardle, the crew gave the cadets a welcoming and fascinating experience of life in the Royal Navy.

Shortly after this visit, the section was delighted to receive another invitation, this time to visit the Royal Navy’s newest aircraft carrier, HMS Queen Elizabeth, in Portsmouth. The cadets will visit the ship at the end of this term.