The Sea Cadets

Through the Cadet Vocational Qualifications Office (CVQO), Cadets aged 16 and older have the opportunity to earn a BTEC First Diploma (equivalent of four GCSEs at grade A-C or four Standard Grades at levels 1-3 in Scotland) in Public Services, Music, and / or Engineering.

Whether your objective is higher education or improved opportunities in the workforce, a BTEC Diploma offers Cadets the additional edge needed!

Cadets take on a diverse course syllabus that includes adventure training, health and fitness, leadership and an expedition. The BTEC programme also provides learning opportunities inside and outside the classroom, including CV preparation, giving presentations, first aid and nutrition, interviewing skills and much more.

The BTEC in Public Services prepares applicants for service in the police, fire or ambulance service as well as the Armed Forces. Most of the syllabus is achieved through existing Cadet activities, with only a small amount of additional work required to complete the Diploma.

The course syllabus undertaken by the Cadets includes learning how to market, budget, advertise, programme and publicise a music event. Cadets also need to demonstrate an understanding of all aspects of performance including solo and ensemble work and how to manage rehearsals. Although Cadets are expected to be able to play a musical instrument prior to enrolling in the course they do not have to be able to read music.

The BTEC in Music combines technical skills with practical elements and research and has been designed to develop a basic understanding of music as a profession.

The BTEC First Diploma in Engineering (Maintenance) is being run as a trial from February 2007.

The syllabus has been designed to develop the knowledge, understanding and competency of Cadets in order to provide a better understanding of engineering as a profession. Both mechanical and electrical theories are taught along with practical elements of engine maintenance and fault diagnosis. Cadets who complete the Sea Cadet marine engineering syllabus can achieve the levels of knowledge and practical elements required to meet the criteria.

In accordance with current SCC rules on minimum ages, work towards the award may begin before the age of 16.