Officer Training & Development

It’s not just our cadets who receive training, our officers do too. As a leader and role model, you’ll be expected to set the standard, which means being fully trained, qualified, and confident in your role. The great news? We provide all the training and support you need to succeed.

As an officer, you'll follow a structured development pathway that includes a mix of online modules, national leadership (promotion) courses, and specialist skills training. These courses are designed to equip you with the knowledge and experience to lead effectively and support cadet development.

Over time, as your experience grows, you’ll take on greater responsibilities and have opportunities to attend additional local and national activities, thereby expanding your skills and working with cadets in new and challenging environments.

You'll also gain valuable qualifications that not only support your role within the NZCF but may also benefit your wider career.

Our Courses

Officer Commissioning Course

The Officer Commissioning Course is the first formal promotion course for Officer Cadets and a key step toward receiving a commission in the New Zealand Cadet Forces (NZCF). To be eligible, candidates must complete the NZCF Officer interview process, obtain a security clearance, and finish the required pre-course online training modules. This intensive 8-day course covers a wide range of essential topics, including Risk Management, Verbal Orders, Drill, Youth Law, Interviewing, Leadership, Administration, Officer Roles, and Personal Development.

Instructional Technique and Training Management Course (ITTM)

The ITTM Course equips NZCF Officers with the skills and qualifications needed to deliver high-quality instruction and manage training programmes within their unit. Over eight days, participants are trained and assessed in lesson planning and delivery, assessing cadet learning, designing engaging training sessions and managing unit-led training and administration. Upon successful completion, officers are awarded a NZ Certificate in Adult and Tertiary Teaching (Level 4), a recognised tertiary qualification that supports both NZCF and civilian instructional roles.

Officer Bushcraft Course

This course equips NZCF Officers with the knowledge and skills to confidently plan, lead, and manage cadets on day tramps and overnight camps along clearly formed tracks in and below the bush line. Over the 8-day course, officers are trained and assessed in planning outdoor activities for groups, interpreting weather conditions, managing risk in outdoor environments and leading groups in the outdoors.

Maritime Safety Officers Course

This 9-day course is designed to provide NZCF Officers with the skills and knowledge needed to plan and conduct practical maritime activities. Officers receive both theoretical and hands-on instruction in outboard motor maintenance, first aid, leadership, planning and conducting training, powerboating and sailing. To be eligible, officers must hold a NZ Coastguard Day Skipper Certificate and either have completed a minimum of 6 hours sailing and be certified as competent in all crew positions on a crown by their Unit Commander or have qualified on the Yachting NZ Instructors Course. This course ensures officers are fully equipped to safely and effectively lead cadets in on-water training and activities.

NZCF Shooting Coaches Course

The Shooting Coaches Course is open to both NZCF Officers and Senior NCOs. It provides the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to effectively coach cadets in marksmanship using the .22 Marlin rifle. Participants will learn best-practice coaching techniques and qualify as a range safety supervisor, enabling them to safely and confidently guide cadets in improving their shooting accuracy and consistency.

NZCF Range Conducting Officer Course

This 2-day course provides NZCF Officers with the knowledge, skills, and qualifications required to plan and conduct a Cadet Unit range shoot safely and effectively. Officers are trained and assessed in rifle handling drills, range safety procedures, understanding and applying Range Standing Orders and coaching firers on the range. On successful completion, participants are awarded the NZCF Range Conducting Officer’s Certificate, authorising them to safely manage and supervise live firing activities within their unit.

Command Course

This 8-day course equips NZCF Officers with the knowledge, skills, and qualifications required to command, lead, and manage a Cadet Unit effectively and professionally. Participants are trained and assessed in strategic planning, performance appraisals, personnel development and additional leadership and management topics relevant to NZCF operations. On successful completion, officers are awarded a National Certificate in Business (First Line Management) – Level 4, a recognised tertiary qualification that supports leadership in both NZCF and civilian contexts. This course is a key step for officers preparing to take on the responsibilities of unit command.