A 23-year-old from Ellesmere Port has marched out on parade to celebrate his transformation from a civilian  into a Royal Navy sailor.

Trainee air engineering technician Nathan Rhodes arrived at the Royal Navy training base HMS Raleigh in Cornwall  last December.

The base is the Royal Navy's largest training establishment in the south west 

During a 10-week course Nathan has been given a thorough induction into the Royal Navy learning skills that he will rely upon throughout his time in the service. 

The course culminates with the passing-out-parade attended by families and friends.

Nathan attended Cheshire Oaks High School and previously worked as a sales assistant. 

He said: “I joined the Royal Navy for the adventure and for the career prospects. The highlights of the course were the military exercises and weapons training.   It’s been a busy 10 weeks.”

The next stage of Nathan’s training will take place at HMS Sultan in Gosport, home to the Royal Naval School of Marine Engineering whose primary function is to supply the Fleet with engineering officers  and ratings of the highest quality.

At HMS Sultan Nathan will learn how to carry out scheduled maintenance as well as pre-and post-flight servicing and inspections for the Fleet Air Arm's helicopters.

The Royal Navy's initial naval training course is underpinned by nine core maritime skills that are the foundations of naval life and underpin operational effectiveness.

Recruits are taught the basics of naval discipline and customs and learn about  navigation.

They are also given the chance to take the helm of their own medium sized inflatable boat during a waterborne orienteering exercise.  

With Royal Navy personnel playing a vital role in Afghanistan and other land-based operations, recruits undergo training in basic combat skills which includes survival in the field.  

Fitness is a key component of the training and is delivered using a disciplined method of military fitness which focuses on developing co-ordination and individual physical strength and endurance.  

As the course progresses the recruits take part in three extended exercises to test their skills and understanding of the principles they have been taught.

Details of career opportunities within the Royal Navy are available online at  www.royalnavy.mod.uk or by calling the Recruitment Line on 08456 07 55 55.