Volunteer Royal Marines Cadet Instructor

Reading Sea Cadets is a volunteer-led youth development organisation based in Reading, committed to helping young people aged 10–18 develop confidence, leadership, and essential life skills that will support them throughout their lives.

As part of the national Sea Cadets charity, we deliver structured programmes inspired by the customs and traditions of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. Our activities provide young people with opportunities to challenge themselves, build resilience, and develop teamwork through adventure training, fieldcraft, leadership development, water-based activities, and community engagement.

Our unit is led by dedicated, trained volunteers who serve as mentors and role models, creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where young people can grow, achieve, and realise their full potential. Many cadets develop skills and confidence that positively shape their education, careers, and personal development.

Reading Sea Cadets also offers rewarding opportunities for adult volunteers to contribute their professional skills, gain recognised qualifications, and make a meaningful difference in their local community.

We are looking for a motivated volunteer to help lead, mentor, and inspire young people aged 13–18 within our Royal Marines Cadets Detachment.

You will support the planning and delivery of engaging and structured training activities that reflect the Royal Marines Cadets' ethos, including fieldcraft, leadership development, adventure training, and personal development.

Working alongside the Detachment Commander and experienced volunteers, you will help deliver a progressive training programme that builds cadets’ confidence, resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills. You will also have the opportunity to contribute new ideas, support cadets’ development, and help create a positive and rewarding learning environment.

Full training and ongoing support will be provided.

We are looking for individuals who are enthusiastic about supporting young people and helping them reach their full potential.

Experience in teaching, training, coaching, mentoring, or youth development is highly beneficial, but not essential. We welcome applicants with transferable professional or personal experience, and we will provide the training needed to succeed in the role.

You should be:

• Confident working with young people aged 10–18
• A strong communicator with patience and professionalism
• Reliable, supportive, and able to work as part of a team
• Willing to learn and develop as a volunteer instructor
• Motivated to make a positive difference in your community

This role is ideal for someone who wants to use their skills to mentor and develop young people while gaining leadership and instructional experience.

This is a flexible volunteer role that requires approximately 3–6 hours per week, typically on one or two weekday evenings during scheduled cadet sessions.

There will also be occasional opportunities and expectations to support weekend activities, training exercises, and events throughout the year. In addition, volunteers will be encouraged to attend training courses that provide the skills, qualifications, and support needed to develop as instructors.

We understand volunteers have work and personal commitments, and we aim to provide flexibility while maintaining a consistent and reliable experience for our cadets.