Junior Sea Cadets

Introduction

The Junior Sea Cadets Roundel Competition gives young cadets the chance to design a ten inch stained glass roundel inspired by the stewardship and values of the 697th Lord Mayor of London, Dame Susan Langley (2025–2026).

Launched in 2018, this stream has grown into a much loved part of the wider Reflections competition. Each year, Junior Sea Cadets bring energy, curiosity and imagination to their designs, creating artwork that blends maritime spirit with civic storytelling.

In 2027 we mark the ninth Junior Sea Cadets roundel. This year the stream becomes open to every Junior Sea Cadet Unit across the United Kingdom, making it the widest and most inclusive edition so far.

One design will be selected and crafted into a permanent stained glass roundel by a professional practitioner. It will honour the 697th Lord Mayor and be celebrated at the 2027 Reflections Gala.

Winners will be contacted through their Sea Cadet Unit and announced across Reflections of The Lord Mayor channels.

Commander James Nisbet shares his insights on the #LMReflects Junior Sea Cadets’ Roundel Design Competition in this engaging interview.

Junior Sea Cadets are aboard HMS Belfast, diligently crafting their stained glass roundel entries.

Why Participate?

Sub-Lieutenant (SCC) Samantha Hayward and Cadet SebastianYoung of Brentwood Sea Cadet Unit, sharing their respective take as to why participating in the #LMReflects Roundel Competition is a win-win scenario.

Key Dates

Call opens: 1 March 2027
Submission deadline: 16 April 2027 (17h00 UK time)
Judging period: May 2027
Reflections Gala Evening: July 2027, London (venue to be announced)

Sponsorship Opportunities

Support a decade of craftsmanship and civic storytelling.

Your organisation can sponsor the 2026 commission or become the Signature Partner for the new livestream.

Find Out More

The Prize

The winning Junior Sea Cadet will receive:

  • a £100 prize, presented by cheque at the Gala
  • the opportunity to have their design professionally interpreted and fabricated as a 10-inch stained-glass roundel
  • a certificate recognising their achievement

The winning Junior Sea Cadet will be invited to attend the Reflections of The Lord Mayor Gala Reception, accompanied by:

  • one parent or guardian
  • one Sea Cadet Unit representative

The Unit representative who supported the winning entry will also receive one complimentary place at the Gala Dinner, in recognition of their encouragement and contribution to the young person’s participation.

The winner will be featured in the Gala Programme, in print and digital form, including:

  • an image of the winning design
  • a short narrative explaining the idea behind the design

If the winner is unable to attend, their artwork and achievement will still be celebrated at the Gala, and a short message may be shared on their behalf.

2027 Requirements

Each Junior Sea Cadet may submit:

1. A coloured roundel design

  • A circular design for a ten inch (254 mm) stained glass roundel
  • Inspired by the stewardship and civic story of the 696th Lord Mayor
  • Must include the inscription:
    “Reflections of the 697th Lord Mayor of London • 2027”

2. A short narrative (100 to 150 words)

Explain:

    • The ideas behind the design
    • How it reflects the Lord Mayor’s year

Any symbols, shapes or colours chosen and why

Cadets do not need to make stained glass.
The winning design will be fabricated by a professional artist.

Entry Form

Please upload:

  • Your coloured design (scan or clear photograph)
  • Your narrative
  • Your name and Unit name

A parent or guardian should approve submission.

Submissions are now closed for this year.

A look at the roundel tradition