The Marine Training Corps is a community interest youth organisation based across the United Kingdom. Currently, there are units in Kent, Sussex, Derbyshire and Norfolk and now a unit for youngsters in Rye.
The Marine Training Corps has a wide range of adult instructors with both military and civilian experience to enrich the organisation for young people. They are looking for volunteers to join the Rye unit: a military background is not at all necessary.
Daniel Bradbury, First Director Marine Training Corps, explained on the open evening: “Our cadets come from a wide range of backgrounds, united as one unit in the spirit of teamwork and mutual respect. By joining the Marine Training Corps, these young people put themselves out of their comfort zone, accepting new challenges on a daily basis whilst giving them the skills and developing their personal qualities to be able to stand head-and-shoulders above their peers.”
When do you start in Rye?
Our first training night is on March 5, then on every Tuesday and Thursday following, including half terms and summer holidays. We are off only for two weeks during the Christmas holidays.
What ages are able to apply?
We have a junior section which is 9+ and a senior 12+.
What time is training?
From 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Where is it held?
It takes place at Rye College. Head down Love Lane and take the second entrance to the college. TN31 7NQ.
How can adult volunteers apply?
Volunteers can choose to wear a uniform or stay as civilian instructors. We are looking for people who would like to give back to the community, would spare one or two evenings per week to teach kids, assist with unit admin, and help us with event planning and sourcing donations.
How do children benefit from attending?
They will make friendships, learn new skills, leadership, spend time outdoors, how to be good citizens, and the ability to gain BTEC certificates.
Lila Wright from the Bexhill unit talked about her experience since joining:
“I joined the MTC in May last year because I had seen their website with all the things they offered me to get involved in and it looked fun and interesting. Ever since then I have loved it: they are like my family, everyone respecting everyone else and treating each other nicely. You learn so much and you get to go through loads of stages and get promotion. I am a Lance Corporal already. My next stage is to get my red star – I have a blue star at the moment. I want to get promoted again because it is the best feeling ever. I have learned how to use a compass and a map with confidence and so much more. “
To contact the Marine Training Corps: admin@marinetrainingcorps.org.uk
Image Credits: Kt bruce .
How amazing that Marine Training Corps has come to Rye. It sounds a great group for youngsters to be part of and wishing you all the very best for the future.