Advanced Trainings (ATs) are one of the most exciting parts of the Sea Cadet experience. They offer cadets the opportunity to travel, gain hands-on experience, explore career paths, and challenge themselves in new environments across the country.
Annual Requirement
Cadets are required to attend at least one Advanced Training (AT) each calendar year to remain in good standing with the program. These trainings typically take place during school breaks (summer, winter, and spring), and registration is handled through the parent portal in Magellan.
Note: Some trainings fill quickly or require travel planning, so we encourage families to begin looking at training opportunities early.
Advancement Requirement
To promote in rank, cadets must complete:
- A minimum of one Advanced Training following their Recruit Training (RT)
- The appropriate coursework for their next rank (usually through Polaris)
- Time-in-rate and other promotion criteria as outlined in the Sea Cadet Regulations
Participation in ATs demonstrates a cadet’s commitment and is a key component in their development and advancement.
Types of Advanced Trainings
Sea Cadet Advanced Trainings span a wide range of career fields and interest areas. Whether a cadet is interested in aviation, leadership, seamanship, or cybersecurity, there’s likely a training that aligns with their goals. Below is a list of common AT types:
Petty Officer Leadership Academy
Petty Officer Leadership Academy (POLA) is a required training for cadets who are advancing to the rank of Petty Officer Third Class (E-4) and beyond. It is one of the most important leadership development experiences in a cadet’s career.
Seamanship
Covers boat handling, navigation, line handling, and basic maritime skills. Often held near coastal or lakeside bases, these trainings build confidence on the water.
Aviation
Introduces cadets to the fundamentals of flight. May include simulator time, ground school instruction, and tours of aviation facilities. Some trainings partner with the Civil Air Patrol or Navy squadrons.
Medical
Focuses on first aid, CPR, and emergency response. Advanced options may include field medicine or shadowing real military or civilian medical personnel.
STEM & Robotics
Cadets explore cutting-edge technology through hands-on activities in science, engineering, coding, and robotics. These trainings may include building and programming robots, working with microcontrollers, or exploring topics like space science, renewable energy, or 3D printing. Often hosted at universities or tech centers, these trainings are perfect for cadets interested in future STEM careers.
SCUBA & Dive
Open to qualified cadets, these trainings offer basic or advanced SCUBA certification and underwater navigation skills.
Master-at-Arms
Cadets learn about military law enforcement, physical security, and investigative techniques, often alongside military police or civilian agencies.
Expeditionary & Special Warfare
Highly physically demanding trainings that introduce cadets to tactical skills, small unit movement, survival, and advanced fitness.
Culinary Arts
From galley procedures to food safety and menu planning, these trainings teach real-world culinary skills—often in support roles during larger trainings.
Music & Ceremonial Guard
For musically inclined cadets, these trainings support ceremonial performances, parades, and official events, and offer drill and honor guard training.
International Exchange
For musically inclined cadets, these trainings support ceremonial performances, parades, and official events, and offer drill and honor guard training.