WAGGA SCHOOL LEADERS PROGRAM MODULE 2
The ARTC Kapooka module is likely to challenge the individual participants and develop teamwork skills. The students learn about their strengths and weaknesses, develop trust and get to know each other better.
Kapooka is a vitally important component of the Defence Force and every recruit to the Australian Army spends their first 80 days of full-time training at the Centre before being deployed to specialist bases across Australia.
The students are paired up for the trip to Kapooka and their discussion centres around choosing their Leadership word, which they will present to the group later in the day. The students discuss how they will live this word each and every day and what leadership means to them.
Once cleared to enter the Barracks through the security gates, the students are taken the Adventurous Training Wing. It’s the same wing that every registered army recruit is required to undertake at some stage in their physical training. This tests their ability to handle pressure and work both individually and as a team to overcome challenges. When the students first laid eyes on the obstacle course the reactions are mixed. They vary from excitement to terror and somewhere in between.
The students were introduced to their instructors and Australian Army staff who would be keeping them safe at all times of their experience. Whilst engaging with the staff the students learnt varying styles of leadership.
Once the briefing commenced and the students realised what the obstacle course entailed there was quiet contemplation from each of them and growing excitement. It certainly was going to be a challenging day.
The activities provided both physical and mental challenges to the students who improved their ability to work collaboratively and operate under pressure. Every student embraced the challenges and participated in each activity, including climbing and abseiling.
The leadership skills displayed across the entire range of Army ranks and Adventure Instructors was not overlooked by the students. The students were encouraged and praised for the ability to undertake each task presented at the Adventure Wing and showed great resilience.
The cohort reflected on the relationships forming, their resilience, their courage and awareness of others.
The remainder of the afternoon focused on presenting their Leadership words. The students spoke to why they had chosen their word, how they display this in their everyday life and what the meaning of the word represents to them.