Our Program

So…you took up the challenge

and are seeking to learn more about the

TS Chatham Navy Cadet program

TS Chatham Navy Cadets is a part of the Sea Cadet Corps (SCC) and New Zealand Cadet Forces (NZCF). We also link in with the Duke of Edinburgh (DoE) Hillary Award program. This means we have the history, support, resources and the infrastructure to provide a comprehensive youth leadership platform for you to launch from.

The New Zealand Cadet Forces (NZCF) has a nationally coordinated four year training programme designed to take cadets from a basic or introductory level of knowledge and skills, to an advanced level of knowledge and skills in a wide range of areas and subjects. We couple that with the Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award program to give a wider range of opportunities.

We typically learn the theory and core fundamentals in our weekly "Parade" nights (Wednesday) followed up with weekend activities and camps to further hone the concept. Being able to develop your skills in a practical environment is pivotal, we believe that fun hands-on learning at your speed is the way to go.

Vision: Preparing New Zealand’s successful leaders of tomorrow

Mission: To develop and enable self-disciplined, confident and responsible young New Zealanders

Aim: To foster a spirit of adventure and teamwork, and to develop those qualities of mind and body essential for good citizens and leaders. To provide challenging and disciplined training activities, which will be useful in either Service or civilian life. To promote an awareness of the Armed Forces, and the role they play in the community.

NZCF Training is broken down into two basic parts- Common Training and Corps Specific Training.

We fall under the Sea Cadets Corps (SCC), which aligns us with the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) as the corresponding branch of the New Zealand Defence Force. There is also the Air Training Corps and Army Cadet Corps. As part of the SCC, our program focuses heavily on sailing, pulling, ropework and other seamanship skills such as coxswain skills and navigating on open water.

However, as we are part of the NZCF, the Common Training overlaps all three corps to provide our cadets access to a multitude of experiences and skill development opportunities.