Support our next generation

The URNU appealed to me and my skillset as I thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to train, develop and mentor Officer Cadets in their URNU experience. I had always wished to progress in the area of maritime education and the URNU has supported this by funding civilian recognised teaching qualifications whilst part of the URNU. The real benefit of being a Training Officer is the opportunity to make a difference. With my knowledge and expertise, I provide Officer Cadets with a platform to build upon during their chosen careers after the URNU.

There are plenty of opportunities for professional development through the Royal Navy as well as having the opportunity to be part of the wider military environment. Opportunities to take part and teach Adventurous Training are a real highlight. In terms of work-life balance, I have been able to balance the requirements of the URNU, my civilian career and my personal life, whilst making a real difference and thoroughly enjoying it. Living in Wales, it was hugely beneficial to be able to be a TO in a unit local to me.

Joining the University Royal Naval Unit (URNU) was a step into the dark after a 42-year career in the Regular and Reserves. However, with just over 10 months as Senior Training Officer (STO) at URNU Glasgow, it has proven an exciting, challenging, and interesting organisation to be a part of. I love the interaction I have with Officer Cadets (OC) as their energy and enthusiasm are infectious. Every student that I have had contact with – whether at a local, regional, or national level - has been keen and motivated with a desire to learn all about life in the RN, even if they have no aspiration of making it their full-time career. Of all the experiences to date, time spent at URNU Summer camp has been the best. To have over 150 students in one place made me realise that it was not just my unit’s students that were this keen, but the URNU organisation as a whole. The insight I have gained into university life has also been an eye opener. Leaving school and going straight into the RN, university was never an option for me, but I always wondered what the student experience was like. The URNU has helped develop my teaching skills and learn more about academia. The opportunity for Senior Ratings to join the URNU became available in 2021. So, if you are about to leave the RN or RNR and wonder what the next step could be, I would highly recommend you think about the role in the URNU Training Cadre. All personnel will transfer at their existing rate and have opportunity for Royal Yachting Association (RYA), (Defence Training Supervisor) DTS and (Chartered Management Institute (CMI) advancement.”