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First group of officer cadets complete their initial training at HMS Raleigh
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7 August 2026
The first officer cohort have completed their 10-week Initial Naval Training course alongside ratings at HMS Raleigh.
The updated system, designed to ensure all new entrants develop the skills, values and resilience needed for service in a warfighting-focused fleet, sees all officers and ratings complete a 10‑week Initial Naval Training course at HMS Raleigh before officers move on to a redesigned 14‑week commissioning course at the Royal Navy’s leadership training centre - Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth.
The first Officer cohort saw 67 Officer Cadets – including 15 from overseas – mark the completion of their initial training with divisions on the parade ground at HMS Raleigh in front of their loved ones.
A short ceremony saw HMS Raleigh’s training staff hand over responsibility for the officer training to a team from BRNC.
They should be immensely proud of what they have achieved. As they progress to the next stage of their careers, they do so with the firm foundations of naval ethos, teamwork and service that will enable them to lead with confidence and distinction in the years ahead
“The successful completion of initial naval training by this first cohort of officer cadets at HMS Raleigh marks a significant milestone, both for the individuals concerned and for the Royal Navy,” said Colonel Chris Hall, Commanding Officer of HMS Raleigh.
“Throughout their training they have demonstrated the commitment, resilience and leadership potential required of today’s naval officers, rising to every challenge with determination and professionalism.
“They should be immensely proud of what they have achieved. As they progress to the next stage of their careers, they do so with the firm foundations of naval ethos, teamwork and service that will enable them to lead with confidence and distinction in the years ahead.”
The new Initial Naval Training course replaces the previous separate pathways for officers and ratings, creating a consistent starting point for everyone joining the Royal Navy which removes duplication across the training pipeline. This modernised approach reflects how the Royal Navy operates today, with officers and ratings working together from the outset on operations worldwide.
Following completion of the foundation course, Officer Cadets will progress to an updated Officers’ Commissioning Course, maintaining the immovable high professional standards expected of Royal Navy officers while improving coherence and efficiency across training.
Co‑locating the foundation phase at HMS Raleigh enables more effective use of training facilities and specialist equipment. It also provides a more flexible modular structure that can support future entry routes and adapt to changing operational requirements. These changes sit alongside wider work already underway to strengthen officer training at Britannia Royal Naval College.