Commanding Officer – WCCU, MAJ(AAC) Julie-Ann de Kantzow
As the Commanding Officer, I base my Commander’s Intent on the aims and values of the Australian Army Cadets and the priorities of both schools. While our core values reflect those of all Australian Services, namely Service, Courage, Respect, Integrity and Excellence; it is Respect that is very dear to my heart, and indeed informs the basis of all we do in Cadets.
Over the past few weeks, all recruits have been presented with the Defence Youth Safety package and the Code of Conduct discussion, which reminds our students that respectful relationships ensure all members feel safe and accepted in this inclusive co-curricular activity.
From time to time, though, our young people need a little reminder, and so I would encourage all members of our community to read the Commander’s Intent below, and to be courageous in supporting their fellow cadets when they see or hear inappropriate behaviours. We are a diverse community, spanning year groups, cultures, genders, interests and rank appointments, and this context allows us to practise and develop the skills and character traits required of professional working relationships; skills that our cadets will take with them into their adult lives beyond Waverley College and St Catherine’s School.
Friday, 16 September is the last Cadets of the term, and I congratulate our newest recruits on their engagement with the program, and their positive response to their rank, as they take command of their sections, platoons and companies from week to week.
Cadets returns on Friday, 14 October in Term 4. The Routine Orders will continue to be distributed from week to week by our rank, informing cadets of the dress, equipment and locations of the various Company activities. Next term, we have some exciting external providers, both in house and at local venues, providing an engaging context in which to learn Cadet skills.
A reminder to parents that Cadets is a required co-curricular activity of all Year 8 Waverley boys from Term 3 until the end of AFX (Cadet Camp) in Term 1. Please schedule medical and dental appointments on alternative days. We have a duty of care for our cadets until 5:30pm each Friday. Should your son be unwell, please apply for leave through cadets@waverley.nsw.edu.au. If your son needs to be collected early from training, please apply for an Early March Out through the same email.
I wish everyone a safe and restorative school holiday break.
MAJ(AAC) Julie-Ann de Kantzow
Commanding Officer – WCCU
E: jdekantzow@waverley.nsw.edu.au
