The well-established Cadet Unit of more than 300 students is an important part of the School’s program, with an emphasis placed on self-reliance and leadership.

Students normally participate in the Cadet Unit in Years 7 to 9 unless they gain positions in the major music ensembles. After the passing-out parade in Year 9, students can elect to continue Cadet training by completing promotion courses.

Leadership opportunities exist through the Cadet Unit. Each platoon is commanded by a student Cadet Under Officer (CUO), with the assistance of a Platoon Sergeant. Each platoon is divided into sections which are led by a Corporal. Rank and appointment to positions are only attained after a cadet with suitable experience attends and passes the relevant promotions course. Typically a CUO is in Year 11 or Year 12 and has served four years in the Cadet Unit.

Cadet training is delivered through weekly afternoon sessions called home training. These are conducted through theory lessons, demonstrations, practical and field activities. It encompasses topics such as bush craft, field craft, navigation, survival, search and rescue, watermanship, radio procedures, abseiling, archery, first aid, orienteering, drill, field engineering, catering, first aid and signals.

Each year Cadets attend Annual Camp and Bivouac, with leadership training courses being offered to those seeking promotion. They School cadet Unit has earned a strong reputation and many of the initiatives introduced at Kinross Wolaroi School camps have been used as examples of best practice for Cadet Education in NSW.

The Cadet Unit also supports ceremonial occasions.