PROMPTED by the first National Cadets Week (October 5 to 11), Milford Haven Royal Marine Cadets are encouraging more young people across the town and surrounding area to discover the skills, qualifications and experiences that come with being part of the unit.

Being a Royal Marine Cadet is about much more than wearing a uniform. For young people looking for a new challenge, Milford Haven Royal Marine Cadets provides opportunities to learn practical skills, develop confidence, take on responsibility and experience activities that can help them both inside and outside the cadet unit.

From fieldcraft and navigation to first aid, leadership and teamwork, cadets are given the opportunity to develop skills that can stay with them long after their time in the organisation has finished.

There are also opportunities to work towards recognised qualifications, including the Duke of Edinburgh's Award and BTEC qualifications, depending on age, training and eligibility. Cadet programmes can also provide opportunities to develop leadership and communication skills, giving young people valuable experience to talk about when applying for college, university, apprenticeships or employment.

But perhaps just as important are the experiences. Cadets can take part in camps, adventurous activities, fieldcraft, navigation, ceremonial events and a wide range of training designed to challenge them and encourage them to work as part of a team.

For some, that might mean learning to navigate using a map and compass. For others, it could be taking on a leadership role, completing a challenging expedition, learning first aid or simply finding the confidence to try something they have never done before.

It isn't about being the strongest, the fittest or having military experience. It's about being willing to learn. The Milford Haven unit is keen to welcome new cadets and show them what they could achieve.

As cadets progress, they can also take on increasing responsibility within the unit, developing leadership, organisation and communication skills while supporting younger members.

One of the key messages the unit wants young people and their parents to understand is that you don't have to know what you want to do in the future to join. A career in the Armed Forces is one possibility, but it is certainly not the only one. The skills gained through cadets – teamwork, leadership, communication, organisation, resilience and problem-solving – can be useful whatever path a young person eventually chooses.

During National Cadets Week, the Milford Haven unit is joining a nationwide celebration of the opportunities, achievements and contributions of cadets and adult volunteers. For Milford Haven Royal Marine Cadets, the aim is simple: to give young people opportunities to challenge themselves, learn new things and discover what they are capable of.

Ready for a challenge? Milford Haven Royal Marine Cadets are currently looking to welcome more young people aged 13+ to the unit. You don't need to arrive knowing how to march, navigate, or be an expert in anything. You just need to be ready to learn, get involved, and give something new a try.