Army Cadet Unit (PHSACU): Teamwork. Leadership. Adventure.
The Pittwater House Army Cadet Unit offers students a chance to build real-world skills, develop lasting friendships, and grow into confident young leaders – all while having serious fun.
What is Cadets?
The Pittwater House Army Cadet Unit is a voluntary co-curricular program that gives students the opportunity to take part in the Australian Army Cadets, a national youth development initiative supported by the Australian Defence Force.
While not a pathway into the military, the program builds valuable life skills such as:
- Leadership and initiative
- Teamwork and communication
- Navigation, first aid, and fieldcraft
- Radio telecommunications and drill
- Resilience, self-discipline, and problem-solving.
Students participate in a mix of structured training, outdoor adventure, leadership development and ceremonial duties, all within a safe, supervised environment.
A tradition of leadership and service
Cadets play an active role in the school community and beyond – from ANZAC Day services to internal ceremonial parades.
Senior cadets take on leadership roles, mentoring younger cadets and helping run day-to-day operations. These responsibilities develop maturity, emotional intelligence and a strong sense of identity and purpose.
Cadet leaders complete formal promotion courses in Years 9 and 10 and are trained in:
- Leading and managing teams
- Planning and delivering training programs
- Risk management and task allocation
- Understanding organisational change and leadership theory.
Weekly training
Cadet training is held on Monday afternoons and includes a structured program of practical learning.
A typical session includes:
- Opening parade and uniform inspection
- Two 35-minute skill-based lessons (e.g. navigation, first aid, radio communications, drill)
- Dismissal parade on the oval
- Training concludes at 5:00pm
Cadets are expected to maintain a healthy balance between Cadets and other co-curricular commitments.
Camps & activities
Some of the most memorable moments in the Cadet calendar include:
- Bi-annual overnight camps
- Adventure-based training activities
- School and community ceremonial events
- Leadership development courses
- Optional involvement in ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services
“Cadets has offered me experiences outside my comfort zone, leading to discipline, maturity and a strong sense of camaraderie and fun amongst my peers.”
Joining Cadets
To become a member of the Cadet Unit, students must:
- Be in Years 7 – 12
- Register through the Australian Army Cadets 2nd Brigade, which forms part of the Commonwealth Government’s Defence Force Cadets Scheme
- Participate in structured training and experiences throughout the year
Cadets are expected to uphold and model the program’s core values of Courage, Initiative, Respect and Teamwork.
Common questions
Are Cadets in the military?
No. While the program is supported by the Australian Army, Cadets are not members of the military and there is no obligation to enlist.
What will my child learn?
Cadets gain confidence, resilience, leadership skills, and practical life experience through hands-on learning, teamwork and personal development.
Are there opportunities beyond school?
Yes, Cadets often take part in extra events such as Anzac Day Dawn Services, Remembrance Assemblies and community leadership opportunities.
Will my child use firearms?
Participation in firearms safety and handling is optional and strictly controlled. Parental consent is required in advance via the official Cadet application (CO22 form).