Cadets

The Barker College Cadet Unit (BCCU), founded in 1900, plays an important part in the school’s educational program, with its emphasis on personal development and promotion of leadership.

Cadets are encouraged to develop initiative, self-discipline and self-reliance. Barker Cadets are trained in a number of areas including Navigation, Communication, First Aid, Camp Craft, Bush Craft, Field Craft, Drill and Leadership.

Students from Year 8 to Year 12 are invited to take part in Cadets. In Year 8 during Term 2, students elect to do either the Duke of Edinburgh Award (DEAS) or Cadets, or both, in order to fulfil their Outdoor Education commitment in Middle School. An initial commitment of 10 months must be given by all students when joining the Cadet Unit and a student's commitment to DEAS ceases at the completion of their bronze level.

Camps and Bivouacs

An Annual Camp, weekend bivouacs, as well as a variety of other outdoor activities are held throughout the year. With a healthy balance of home and field training, the cadets receive a well-balanced learning environment and plenty of opportunities to grow and develop.

The Cadet program also offers further training in our Junior and Senior Leadership courses, as well as our Bronze, Silver and Gold Barker College Adventure Training (BCAT). The BCAT motto, 'Victory through strength and unity' encourages students to challenge themselves and every cadet who completes this training demonstrates resilience, fortitude and integrity.

The Annual Camp of the BCCU is one of the largest self-contained activities conducted at Barker. Approximately 450 Cadets, parent helpers and staff spend seven days in a standing bush camp. Impressively, this camp is primarily run by our Senior Students which is a testament to their level of training.

Parades

Each year, the Barker College Cadet Unit honour the service of the Year 12 Cadet leaders and members at the annual Ceremonial Parade held on Barker Oval.

The Cadet Unit is proud to commemorate those Barker Old Boys who have served and still serve today, at its Church Parade. This is an important event in the Cadet calendar as it instils in our young men and women the importance of service and leadership in their lives.

For more information

Phone: 02 8438 7125
cadets@barker.nsw.edu.au