What to expect
Your year as First Sea Lord Scout: commitments, support and your questions answered.
Expected national commitments
The successful applicant is expected to attend six principal engagements during 2027.
| Provisional commitment | Month | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Investiture and training weekend | January | Portsmouth and London |
| Mountbatten Festival of Music | March | London |
| RN May Camp | May half term | Gosport |
| Cadet Fest | October | Portsmouth |
| Trafalgar Day Parade and Wreath Laying | October / November | London |
| Admiralty Carol Service | December | London |
Dates, venues and activities may change because of Royal Navy operational requirements, security, weather or event planning. Some engagements may involve preceding-day travel, an overnight stay or a full weekend. Further official engagements may be offered.
Availability is essential, but a potential conflict does not automatically disqualify you if it can reasonably be resolved. Appointment must not depend on attending an event that is inaccessible because reasonable adjustments were not provided.
Ambassadors should maintain high standards in their appearance. Elements of additional uniform will be provided by the Scheme.
Frequently asked questions
What are the age requirements?
Applicants must be aged between 15 and 17 at the start of 2027, remain under 18 by the end of the appointment, and remain eligible for the required appointment duration.
What is the time and travel commitment?
The provisional programme includes six core engagements: investiture and training in January; the Mountbatten Festival of Music in March; RN May Camp during May half term; Cadet Fest in October; the Trafalgar Day Parade and Wreath Laying in October or November; and the Admiralty Carol Service in December. Locations include Portsmouth, London and Gosport. See the Commitments section for the programme table. Some may require travel the day before, overnight accommodation or attendance across a full weekend. Exact dates, venues and activities are not confirmed and may change. Further official engagements may be offered.
The RN Sea Scout Team will try to support travel arrangements where possible, working alongside the RN Cadet Forces to provide overnight ratios and support during events.
Who provides my reference?
Ask your Section Leader or Group Lead Volunteer to complete the Local Volunteer Endorsement and Reference Form. Upload the completed form at the same time as your application answers. Referees may be contacted to confirm your active involvement in your Group.
Will I be with my friends?
You will meet cadets from the Royal Navy Cadet forces, including the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), Sea Cadets and Volunteer Cadet Corps (VCC). Representatives come from across the country, so everyone is meeting for the first time and has the opportunity to make new friends.
Previous First Sea Lord Scouts will also support you through the year, sharing their knowledge and experience to help you transition into the role.
How does selection work?
Write the application in your own words. A local volunteer verifies eligibility and provides a reference. Names are removed before at least two assessors independently score eligible applications against the published criteria. Scores are moderated, a shortlist is agreed and shortlisted applicants take part in a consistent interview. A panel recommends the successful applicant and reserve. Everyone is told privately before any public announcement.
Can I request application support or reasonable adjustments?
Have a question, a possible diary clash or a support need? Contact info@rnseascouts.org.uk before applying so we can discuss it with you. Declare any known conflicts or support requirements in your application.