On Saturday 3rd May, Cadets and Staff set off early heading south to Chatham for a stay at the Historic Dockyard. Tours and activities had been organised for the next two days.
On arrival the cadets were given free time to have a look around and investigate in their groups, after which we were met and taken to the Smithery for the first of our weekend activities. Ship’s camouflage was explained and the fact that noise and heat were a ship’s worst enemies. The cadets were split into teams and given the task to insulate and muffle the heat and sound source inside a model ship’s hull using anything from bubble wrap to tin foil. Once completed their efforts were tested in a water tank with ultra sound and heat sensors. Then it was off to dinner before going on board HMS Cavalier, where we were staying. However the day was not over yet. Once settled into our messes, LT Cdr Mark Gamble, ADO of West Kent District, gave us all a tour of the ship. As it had been a long day, while we were in the mess deck, cadets and one member of staff had the opportunity to try out a hammock! It was fun watching them get in, but even more entertaining watching them try to get out. Once the tour was over it was time to get ready for bed.
Day 2 started with a tour of HMS Ocelot, an ‘O’ class conventional submarine. During the tour the cadets were told that the last commanding officer of the boat was a certain Lt Cdr T Soar, which was a surprise as they all know him as our unit President, Admiral Sir Trevor Soar. After the tour we then went down to the Ropery to see how rope was made. Some of the cadets had the chance to make their own piece of rope and the end piece, which was used to make a cat of nine tails (used to administer punishment to unruly sailors), was given to SLt Stoneman to maintain cadet discipline! As this was only a small piece of the finished rope, it was only a cat of three tails – after all, they are only cadets! To finish the busy morning it was back to the Smithery for our second activity – Missile building and firing! A lot of fun was had and the competition was fierce to see who could build and fire the best air powered rocket. Unfortunately, although leading for most of the competition, the staff were robbed and came second. Then it was lunch and some more free time to buy any gifts or souvenirs before getting back on the minibuses and heading home. A jam packed weekend but an enjoyable one. All cadets said they enjoyed themselves and once the staff recover, we will look towards arranging a another one.
Photos taken at Chatham can be found using the following link :-
http://s1284.photobucket.com/user/cotsmodwena/slideshow/Chatham%20Historical%20Dockyard%20-%20May%202014
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