A former St Ives school pupil has completed the first stage of training to become a Royal Navy sailor.

Trainee chef Stanley Leach, 16, arrived at HMS Raleigh, the Royal Navy’s training base in Cornwall last October.

During a 10-week course he 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.

The former pupil of St Ivo School said: “I joined the Royal Navy to travel the world whilst plying my trade and for a good pension. Training is extremely difficult, but the feeling after completing a task make you feels 100 per cent better.”

With the first phase of his training complete Stanley will remain at HMS Raleigh for his training at the Defence Maritime Logistics School.

During a 26-week course he will learn how to cook meals for hundreds of people as well as fine dining cuisine. He will also learn about food hygiene, health and safety, catering accountancy and stock control.

Once fully qualified Stanley will join a team who make sure the ship’s company receive three meals a day. He could be cooking for up to 1,000 people depending on the class of ship he is assigned to.