Gosport Youth Citizen of the Year Recognised for Outstanding Service to the Volunteer Cadet Corps

The Volunteer Cadet Corps is delighted to congratulate Zoë Malam on being named Gosport Youth Citizen of the Year 2026, recognising her exceptional commitment to volunteering, leadership and youth development.

Zoë joined the Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps Band Gosport in 2019 and quickly embraced the opportunities offered by the Corps. Throughout her time as a cadet, she developed valuable leadership skills while participating in concerts, ceremonial parades and training activities. Despite many opportunities being disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, she was selected as a First Sea Lord Cadet, recognising her dedication and potential.

Progressing to the rank of Cadet Colour Sergeant, Zoë demonstrated outstanding commitment before transitioning into adult service at the age of 18. Since then, she has supported numerous training camps and activities, serving as a Sailing Instructor, Welfare Officer and member of senior leadership teams delivering safe, rewarding and memorable experiences for cadets.

One of the highlights of her service was supporting the VCC’s 125th Anniversary celebrations at the Tower of London, where she served as Third-in-Command on parade while helping coordinate training and ceremonial activities throughout the week.

Most recently, Zoë has served as Second-in-Command of Royal Marines VCC Gosport Division, helping to strengthen recruitment, encourage greater participation from female cadets and adult volunteers, and further develop the delivery of training within the unit. Her passion for practical training and youth development has made a lasting impact on countless young people.

Reflecting on her journey, Zoë credits the VCC with helping shape the person she is today through the confidence, skills and lifelong friendships she has gained. In turn, she has dedicated herself to ensuring future generations of cadets benefit from the same opportunities.

As Zoë prepares to take a well-earned break from the organisation, this award serves as fitting recognition of her years of dedicated service to the VCC and the wider Gosport community.

Everyone at the Volunteer Cadet Corps congratulates Zoë on this well-deserved achievement and thanks her for her outstanding contribution to the Corps and the young people it supports.

Historic First as Volunteer Cadet Corps Conducts Ceremony of the Dues at the Tower of London

The Volunteer Cadet Corps (VCC) made history on Tuesday 21 April 2026, becoming the first youth organisation ever to conduct the Ceremony of the Constable’s Dues at the Tower of London, as part of its 125th anniversary celebrations.

The Ceremony of the Dues is a tradition dating back to the 14th Century, when ships entering the Port of London were required to pay a levy to the Constable of the Tower. In 1381, King Richard II decreed that every vessel arriving upstream to the City of London must present “two roundlets of wyne”, a custom that has endured for over 600 years.

Traditionally carried out by Royal Navy sailors, the ceremony remains a powerful symbol of the relationship between maritime service, the Crown and the City of London.

The ceremony saw a contingent of VCC cadets carry the symbolic dues, a barrel of wine, through the outer gates of the Tower. In keeping with tradition, they were challenged at the entrance by the Yeoman Gaoler and two Yeoman Warders, dressed in full state attire, before being formally escorted through to Tower Green.

There, the Chief Yeoman Warder led the parade to present the dues to the Constable of the Tower, General Sir Gordon Messenger KCB, DSO & Bar, OBE, in a ceremony rich in heritage and national significance.

The event marks a defining moment in the VCC’s 125-year history, reflecting both its historic roots and its modern-day role in developing young people through leadership, discipline and service.

The ceremony was hosted by Brigadier Ged Salzano MBE RM, Commander Royal Navy Cadets, and attended by Louise Sandher-Jones MP (Minister for Veterans and People) and Rear Admiral Andrew Rose (Director People and Training), alongside senior representatives, cadets and volunteers from across the Corps.

Speaking after the Ceremony, Cadet Warrant Officer First Class Oliver Epps, Parade Commander, said:

“To take part in a ceremony with over 700 years of history, at the Tower of London, during our 125th anniversary year is an incredible honour.

Standing in uniform, carrying out a role traditionally performed by Royal Navy sailors, really brings home the responsibility we have as cadets. It’s not just about drill, it’s about representing the VCC, respecting its history, and doing something that very few young people will ever experience.

I feel proud to be part of this moment, and to represent not only my unit, but cadets across the entire Volunteer Cadet Corps.”

Warrant Officer Second Class Russell Piner RM, Commander VCC, added:

“This is a truly significant moment, not just for the Volunteer Cadet Corps, but for every cadet and volunteer who has contributed to its 125-year history.

To be entrusted with a ceremony of this importance, in a place as iconic as the Tower of London, reflects the professionalism, discipline and commitment that our cadets demonstrate every day.

Behind this moment are countless hours of dedication; from the cadets who have trained to the highest standards, and from the volunteers who give their time to develop them. It is a proud day for the Corps and a powerful reminder of the impact we continue to have.”

As the VCC marks 125 years since its formation in 1901, this historic first stands as a testament to the organisation’s enduring values and its continued relevance in developing the next generation.

Cadets on Parade from the following Units:

Band of Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps Plymouth, based at RMB Stonehouse, Plymouth.
Band of Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps Gosport, based at HMS Sultan, Gosport.
Gosport Division Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps, based at HMS Sultan, Gosport.
Portsmouth Division Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps, based at HMS Excellent, Portsmouth.
Plymouth Division Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps, based at RMB Stonehouse, Plymouth.
Lympstone Division Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps, based at Commando Training Centre, Exmouth.
HMS Excellent Royal Naval Volunteer Cadet Corps, based at HMS Excellent, Portsmouth.
HMS Collingwood Royal Naval Volunteer Cadet Corps, based at HMS Collingwood, Fareham.
HMS Sultan Royal Naval Volunteer Cadet Corps, based at HMS Sultan, Gosport.

Volunteer Cadet Corps Marks 125th Anniversary in 2026

The Volunteer Cadet Corps (VCC), one of the United Kingdom’s oldest uniformed youth organisation, will proudly mark its 125th anniversary in 2026, celebrating more than a century of service, discipline and youth development.

Founded on 14 February 1901 at the Mission Hall on Prince Albert Street, Portsmouth; the Volunteer Cadet Corps was established to provide young people with structure, leadership skills and a strong sense of civic duty.

The VCC ‘legend’ has it that, the children of Royal Marines Artillerymen (all of whom lived ‘on board’ in the barracks) had very little to gainfully occupy their spare time and were often to be found outside playing around throughout the barracks. This included impromptu football games and sometimes the ball would be ‘accidentally’ kicked through a barrack room window. But on one occasion the ball was kicked through the Commanding Officer’s office window and so he summoned the Adjutant to find a way to keep this from happening. The VCC was subsequently born although only with the sons of serving Royal Marines Artillerymen; thankfully today we are much more diverse and accepting.

Its first Commanding Officer was Captain William Harkness RMA, with the VCC’s first parade night held at the then Royal Marines Barracks. Since those early days, the VCC has played a significant role in shaping generations of young people through training, education and service.

It was in 1904 that the first Royal Naval Cadet unit was established at the then HMS Victory Royal Naval Barracks (now HMS Nelson). It was modelled on the RMA Cadets at Eastney and it was in this year that further RMA and Royal Marines Light Infantry (RMLI) cadets were stood up in Chatham and Plymouth. Such was the success of these cadets’ units, all sponsored and recognised by the Admiralty, more units were set up at HMS Excellent, Forton Barracks in Gosport and Royal Marines Deal in Kent, and later on at all the Royal Navy ‘stone frigates’ located in the Portsmouth area.

We don’t know when the title Volunteer Cadet Corps was first used, but the earliest record we have is from a Navy List in 1913. The word ‘volunteer’ was used a lot at the time especially in territorial units and indicates that the instructors were drawn from volunteers in the respective barracks, although we wonder if they were perhaps ‘volunteered’ rather than being so willing! Nevertheless, and indeed to this day, a service helper volunteer was often excused barracks duties.

Over the past 125 years, the Corps has adapted to social change while remaining true to its founding principles. Thousands of cadets have passed through its ranks, many going on to serve in the Armed Forces, emergency services, maritime industries and a wide range of civilian careers. The values instilled by the VCC – teamwork, resilience, leadership and respect – continue to have a lasting impact well beyond cadet service.

The 125th anniversary will be marked throughout 2026 with a programme of commemorative events, including parades (Ceremony of the Dues at the Tower of London), ceremonial activities (Mountbatten Festival of Music at the Royal Albert Hall) reunions of former cadets and staff, and community engagement initiatives (VCC Showcase at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Caledonia Canal Challenge). These events will not only honour the VCC’s rich history but also highlight its ongoing relevance and contribution to youth development in the modern era.

Speaking ahead of the anniversary year, Warrant Officer Second Class Russell Piner RM, Commander VCC, said:

“Reaching 125 years is a remarkable milestone and a testament to the dedication of the volunteers, instructors and cadets who have sustained the Corps across generations. Our anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on our proud heritage while looking forward to the future and the next generation of cadets.”

Today, the Volunteer Cadet Corps continues to offer young people unique opportunities to develop practical skills, confidence and leadership in a disciplined yet supportive environment. With strong links to maritime and defence traditions, the Corps remains firmly embedded in the communities it serves.

As the Volunteer Cadet Corps enters its 125th year, it stands as a living legacy of commitment, service and youth empowerment – proud of its past and focused on inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.

Volunteer Cadet Corps Signs the Armed Forces Covenant aboard HMS Victory

The Volunteer Cadet Corps (VCC) has today (10 Feb 2026) formally signed the Armed Forces Covenant, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community and marking a significant milestone during its 125th anniversary year.

The signing ceremony took place in the Great Cabin of HMS Victory, Admiral Lord Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar and one of the most enduring symbols of Royal Navy heritage.

The Covenant was signed by Rear Admiral Andrew Rose OBE, Director People & Training and Naval Secretary, on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, alongside Warrant Officer Class 2 Russ Piner RM, Commander VCC, signing on behalf of the Volunteer Cadet Corps.

The ceremony was attended by senior representatives from the Royal Navy Cadet Forces and the VCC, including:

Capt Terry Tyack RN, Deputy Commander Royal Navy Cadet Forces
Lt Cdr Ross Duncan RN, SO2 VCC Royal Navy Cadet Forces
WO2 Russ Piner RM, Commander VCC
Maj (VCC) Louis Colpitts, Deputy Commander VCC
Lt Cdr (VCC) Rodger Mills, First Lieutenant
Captain (VCC) Gaz Langworthy, Adjutant and Head of Training
Lieutenant (VCC) Duncan Ellis, Head of Training
Cadet Colour Sergeant Arthur Westmorland, First Sea Lord Cadet from Band of Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps Gosport
Leading Cadet Rosie Auckland, First Sea Lord Cadet from HMS Collingwood Royal Naval Volunteer Cadet Corps

The Armed Forces Covenant represents a national commitment to ensure that those who serve, have served, and their families are treated fairly and without disadvantage arising from their service.

As the VCC reflects on 125 years of service, heritage and contribution, the anniversary also marks a clear point of transition. The Corps is entering a period of significant modernisation, with the aim of professionalising its adult volunteer workforce, strengthening governance and assurance, and enhancing the overall cadet experience in line with modern expectations and Defence standards.

WO2 Russ Piner, Commander VCC said:

“The Volunteer Cadet Corps continues to play an important role in developing young people through the values of the Armed Forces. Signing the Armed Forces Covenant aboard HMS Victory reflects both the VCC’s proud history and its commitment to evolve for the future.”

Maj (VCC) Louis Colpitts, Deputy Commander VCC, added:

“Our 125th anniversary is a moment to honour those who came before us, but it is also about setting the conditions for the future. This transformation will ensure the Volunteer Cadet Corps remains relevant, professional and capable of delivering the best possible experience for cadets and volunteers alike.”

The signing of the Armed Forces Covenant underscores the VCC’s enduring commitment to its people and its continued alignment with Defence as it looks ahead to its next chapter.

As the Volunteer Cadet Corps enters its 125th year, it stands as a living legacy of commitment, service and youth empowerment – proud of its past and focused on inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.

Congratulations Chris Spratt MBE!

Former Commander VCC, Lt Col (VCC) Ret’d Chris Spratt has been recognised by His Majesty The King in the New Years Honours List and is awarded an MBE for Services to the Volunteer Cadet Corps.

Chris Spratt MBE’s retirement from his role as Commander VCC in March 2024 marked the end of an incredible 42-year journey filled with dedication and impactful service. His leadership and commitment have shaped the lives of countless young individuals, equipping them with the skills and confidence to ‘Meet The Challenge’ of modern life. Chris’s influence has not only fostered personal growth in these young people but has also strengthened the community as a whole.

In 1981, Lt Col (VCC) Chris Spratt’s parents saw the Portsmouth Division RMVCC Band march down Fratton Road and thought ‘our son should join them’ – to this day, he questions why (as he says he wasn’t that bad as a kid!). After 5 months of recruit training under the watchful eye of Second World War ex Royal Marines sniper Mick Coughlan, Lt Col Spratt passed out, being the fourth best recruit.

Joining C Company and was soon propelled into the unit’s Mounted Display, with thoughts of riding a horse at the forthcoming Cadet Tattoo on the parade ground at Eastney Barracks but alas the ‘horses’ turned out to be fur covered wire frames on braces and was to jog around the arena in an intricate display to music.

Progressing through the ranks and as a Cadet Corporal, he joined the Drill Squad, a display of precision rifle drill without orders. Enjoying five years of public displays with them including Navy Days, D-Day 40 and various local shows. Passing the Senior Command Course in 1986 in first place, Col Spratt became the Company Sergeant Major of R Company. The VCC is very much a family affair and by this time Col Spratt’s parents became involved and recently retired!

Having been promoted to Cadet Colour Sergeant, his time as a cadet regrettably came to an end after 6 years in those days cadets had to leave aged 16. Enjoying several camps, participated in Cadet Tattoos, getting stuck into various activities and learning a lot of life skills, he was not ready to leave. Thankfully, Col Spratt was one of the only a handful of senior cadet to be invited to stay on as a Junior Instructor.

Col Spratt has held nearly every position within the VCC, including Company Commander, Training Officer, Chief Instructor, Adjutant and latterly Commander VCC – indeed the very first VCC ex-cadet to go from the very bottom to the top in their unit and entire organisation. Col Spratt said “I have made some great lifelong friendships during my time and shared some truly amazing, indeed ‘hoofing’ experiences. The highlights have been to be parading at Buckingham Palace, organising more summer camps and weekend exercises than I can remember; paying respects at First World War battlefields and cemeteries around Ypres, and marching through the City of London in the Lord Mayor’s Show, but above all seeing so many of our young cadet flourish into reliable and dependable adults – our VCC aim”.

Chris continues to be an ambassador for volunteering within the Royal Navy Cadet Forces.

Congratulations Chris Spratt MBE!

The University of Northampton recently released its four year study into the positive impact of being in a cadet force has on young people.

Four-year university study provides extensive assessment of cadets
Huge well-being and career benefits
Defence Command Paper outlines commitment to invest in the Cadet Forces

The UK currently has 130,000 cadets and almost 30,000 adult volunteers supporting them. This follows the Cadet Expansion Programme launched by HM Government in 2012 which saw the number of school cadet units double to over 500 by last year.

During a visit to a local cadet unit based in a South London all-girls school, Defence Minister James Heappey explained that the study found participation in the Cadet programmes led to greatly improved communication and leadership skills.

“I AM DELIGHTED TO READ THE POSITIVE CONCLUSIONS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTHAMPTON’S REPORT INTO OUR CADETS, WHICH EMPHASISES THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS PROGRAMME FOR BOTH YOUNG PEOPLE AND ADULT VOLUNTEERS.

“CADETS FORM A VITAL PART OF THE COMMUNITIES THEY REPRESENT, BUILDING CONFIDENCE, RESILIENCE AND FRIENDSHIP IN A UNIQUE SETTING. THIS REPORT CLEARLY DEMONSTRATES HOW CADET FORCES BENEFIT OUR YOUTH BY BROADENING THEIR HORIZONS AND UNLOCKING THEIR POTENTIAL.” Minister for the Armed Forces, James Heappey

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson, added:

“I have seen for myself how the values of our Armed Forces – those of resilience, self-discipline and perseverance – can benefit so many of our young people with skills they can rely on well into adult life. That, for me, is one of the biggest benefits of this growing programme and why we are expanding it into even more schools. This study confirms the positive impact that being a Cadet can have, by levelling up outcomes in education, employment and health for young people.”

Not only were these positive attributes developed within the Cadet Forces; the study found the skills gained through cadets’ experiences are reflected in other aspects of life. For example, participation was directly linked to increased social mobility, improved educational outcomes and greater employability. Additionally, improved mental and physical well-being and strong community links are included in the findings, particularly for those who experience economic or other disadvantages. The well-being benefits from participation may result in fewer visits to the GP or less use of mental health support services.

“OUR RESEARCH HAS CONCLUDED THAT THE CADET FORCES PROVIDE STRUCTURED CHALLENGE, DISCIPLINE, TRAINING, EDUCATION AND, IMPORTANTLY, FUN. CADETS AND THEIR ADULT VOLUNTEER INSTRUCTORS GAIN NEW SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS WHICH INCREASE THEIR EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES. THE POSITIVE IMPACTS ON SOCIAL MOBILITY ARE, FRANKLY, AMAZING. THE CADET FORCES REPRESENT A VERY GOOD USE OF TAXPAYERS’ MONEY.” Professor Simon Denny, Institute for Social Innovation and Impact, the University of Northampton

The report outlines a significant return on investment in the Cadet Forces, with the cadet experience offering potentially life-changing opportunities for career progression and vocational qualifications. This results in increased career prospects for those who may not hold traditional educational qualifications.

Earlier this year, the Defence Command Paper outlined a refreshed commitment to invest in the Cadet Forces, and the MOD will continue to work jointly with the Department for Education to develop and expand the programme to provide this opportunity to more young people.

The Ministry of Defence and Department for Education also announced a further £1.1 million of funding for the Cadet Expansion Programme (CEP) in April 2021. The CEP builds on the Government’s support for children’s wellbeing as they make the transition back to the classroom, as well as its £1.7 billion investment in programmes targeted at young people who may benefit from additional help with academic, social or emotional skills.

The University of Northampton’s full report, entitled ‘What is the social impact and return on investment resulting from expenditure on the Cadet Forces in the UK?’ can be viewed here.

Volunteer Cadet Corps 120 years old and still going strong with new Commanding Officer.

The Volunteer Cadet Corps (VCC) celebrates 120 years on 14^th Feb 2021. The VCC has units operating in Portsmouth, Gosport, Fareham, Plymouth, Lympstone (nr. Exmouth), Arbroath (Scotland) and have expanded this with a new unit set to open in Chivenor, North Devon.

The Aim of the VCC is to provide opportunities for young people to develop into responsible, dependable and useful members of society, employing the traditions and practises of the Naval Service as the basis for their activities.

The VCC was ‘stood up’ with one unit at what was then the Royal Marines Artillery (RMA) barracks at Eastney in Portsmouth with the first night on 14^th February 1901, a date that has played havoc with anniversary celebrations ever since thanks to St Valentine!.

First known as the Royal Marines Artillery Cadet Corps, not only was it the first cadet unit in what was to become the VCC but it was the first cadet unit formally established and recognised by the Admiralty.

Because of the way the VCC was set up back in the early 1900s the Cadet Corps has always been based within Royal Navy and Royal Marines establishments, unlike the majority of our peer community cadet forces. This remains our practice to this day, and whilst we are now open to young people from civilian families, we still have a sizeable proportion of service children joining as cadets. Our unit COs are now cadet force adult volunteers (CFAVs) but there is always someone from our parent establishments appointed as our liaison officer, retaining the important link between the cadets and the base that supports them.

The 120^th year of the VCC coincides with the appointment of a new Commanding Officer, Lt Col (VCC) Chris Spratt, Commander VCC

Lt Col (VCC) Chris Spratt said:

“Recently I was honoured and delighted to be appointed as Commander VCC, the senior adult volunteer in the VCC. My time in the VCC also started at Royal Marines Eastney, some 38 years ago, and my passion for what we do to help young people develop and prepare for life has never diminished.

At a critical time in our history, as we deal with the effects of Covid whilst also looking to expand our organisation, I’m looking forward to the challenge of steering the VCC into its 120^th year. We may not be able to celebrate properly just yet, but we will still mark our 120^th anniversary and give thanks to the cadets and volunteers who have contributed to our amazing history. Their legacy is the foundation of our future as we seek to ‘Meet The Challenge’ of modern times.”

VOLUNTEER CADET CORPS ACHIEVES MOD SPONSORSHIP

The Volunteer Cadet Corps, part of the Royal Navy’s ‘Navy Youth’ section, has recently been awarded ‘sponsored status’ by the Ministry of Defence. Formerly just recognised by the MOD, although part of and supported by the Royal Navy, the confirmation that the MOD has agreed to sponsor the VCC was notified to the First Sea Lord last week following a submission to the Armed Forces Minister. This means the VCC now exists on a par with the other MOD sponsored UK Cadet Forces and looks forward to expanding its offering to the nation’s youngsters now that it has equal access to MOD cadet force resources.

“I am delighted that the VCC is now fully sponsored by the MOD and is a fully-fledged member of the UK Cadet Forces family”

said Commander VCC, Lt Col Terry Wing RMC, upon hearing the news.

“The VCC has been supporting the youth aims of the Royal Navy for over 116 years and although smaller in comparison to the Sea Cadets, the Royal Naval Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets of the VCC have made a significant contribution to the Naval Service well beyond their number.”

Background Information

The Volunteer Cadet Corps was formed by the Admiralty in 1901 in Portsmouth and consists of Royal Naval Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets. Originally only open to the sons of service personnel, the VCC now accepts boys and girls from all walks of life between the ages of 9 and 18. Unlike the Sea Cadet Corps, the VCC is generally based within and supported by Naval Service establishments. It aims to provide opportunities for young people to develop into responsible, dependable and useful members of society, employing the traditions and practises of the Naval Service as the basis for their activities.

Royal Naval Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets of the VCC get involved in all sorts of naval and military training including sailing, fieldcraft, navigation, competitions, skill at arms, ceremonial events, musicianship, field gun, sports, target shooting and adventurous training. VCC units also help to represent the Naval Service within their local communities and across the country. VCC cadets have appeared at the Royal Tournament, Navy Days, numerous Remembrance Parades, HRH Duke of Edinburgh’s retirement parade at Buckingham Palace and many other civic and community events.

The VCC is not a pre-service organisation and is run by civilian and service volunteers in their spare time. It is part of the Royal Navy’s ‘Navy Youth’ section within the command of Commander Core Training and Recruiting (COMCORE), reporting to Flag Officer Sea Training (FOST). The VCC currently has units in Portsmouth, Gosport, Fareham, Lympstone and Plymouth, with new units opening soon in Arbroath and Helston. The VCC also has a Royal Marines Cadet Band and is headquartered alongside Navy Command HQ in Portsmouth.