PYMBLE LADIES COLLEGE CADET UNIT

Introduction

Participation in the Pymble Ladies College Army Cadet Unit (PLCCU) fosters service, leadership, teamwork, and a range of outdoor skills. Through the program, students gain confidence, self-sufficiency, discipline, and the ability to commit both mentally and physically to challenging activities. 

Cadet Recruit Training

New students enter the PLCCU as Cadet Recruits. All cadet training takes place on Monday afternoons from 3.30pm to 5.30pm. Each year, cadets participate in two offsite field training exercises—one during the April school holidays and another in the December school holidays. Additionally, Promotions Courses are held at various times, providing cadets with the opportunity to study for positions of formal rank within the unit. 

Curriculum

The PLCCU’s training program is modelled on the Australian Defence Force, focusing on personal development rather than “war-like” activities. Key curriculum components include:

• Army Drill: Instruction in a wide range of Army drill movements.

• Fieldcraft: Training in military fieldcraft, including section formations, camouflage and concealment, field signals, and movement by day and night. Cadets also learn basic bushcraft, such as shelter construction.

• First Aid: Practical skills in handling fractures, bites and stings, and heat- or cold-related injuries. Cadets are taught emergency response, including how to request casualty evacuation (CASEVAC).

• Navigation: Navigation training aligned with Australian Army standards.

• Radio Telecommunications (RATEL): Communication skills according to Army RATEL procedures.

• Leadership and Project Management: Both formal and informal opportunities to develop leadership and project management abilities, with the option to pursue a formal leadership position through Promotions Courses.

Training Parade Format

The weekly training parade usually follows this schedule:

• 1530 – Administration Parade: Formal commencement of training, roll marking, and announcements.

• 1540 to 1600 – Fitness: A focus on personal fitness with a session for those able to participate.

• 1600 to 1640 – Lesson: Varied between theory and practical, delivered indoors or outdoors.

• 1640 to 1645 – Break

• 1650 to 1725 – Lesson

• 1725 to Closing Parade: Formal close and final notices.

Lessons are delivered by staff or senior cadets and blend theoretical and practical content, following the Australian Army Cadets’ Cadet Development Continuum.

Ongoing Training

Once a Cadet Recruit graduates to Cadet (usually after the first year), they may apply for an elective Promotions Course, competing for leadership roles within the unit. Not all cadets pursue leadership—many choose to progress into senior sections with specialist roles, such as:

• Medics (first aid and medical support)

• Reconnaissance (Recon) (fieldcraft specialists)

• Headquarters (HQ) (administrative and logistical support)

Successful applicants for positions of rank are posted to senior sections as leaders or to the new recruit platoon to provide guidance and mentoring.

Field Training Exercises

While participation is not compulsory, these exercises are often considered the most fun, challenging, and rewarding component of the program.