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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Cadets

What is the purpose of Cadets?

Cadets form a national organization whose purpose is to develop in youth the attributes of leadership, engaged and active citizenship and physical fitness, all within a safe environment that stimulates an interest in the Canadian Forces.

Why should I join Cadets?

Cadets offer you challenges, friendship and adventure! It’s an opportunity to expand your own horizons, contribute to your community and make friends for life. Many former Cadets credit their participation in the program with giving them a head-start toward their successful careers. Did you know that astronaut Chris Hadfield, Olympic biathlon gold medallist Myriam Bédard and actor Jim Carrey were all Cadets in their teens?

What do Cadets do?

Cadets are teenagers like you who take part in activities at a Cadet Corps within their local community. These activities are designed to help you to become more self-confident, to develop your leadership skills, to improve your physical fitness and communication skills, and to teach you self-discipline through challenging training.

What does it cost to join?

There are no registration fees, dues or cost for the uniforms or for the basic Cadet Program. Cadets and parents are encouraged to participate in fundraising.

When do Cadets meet?

Cadets usually meet once a week and some weekends throughout the school year.

Will Cadet training affect my schoolwork?

Education is very important to Cadets. Cadet training is a hands-on, activity-based program that should complement your school studies. In fact, some provincial and territorial education boards accept Cadet subjects for school credits. As well, there are several scholarships available through Cadets.

How old do I have to be to join Cadets?

You can join as soon as you’ve reached your twelfth birthday and you can remain until you turn 19.

What do I need to join?

All you need to join is an interest in the program and your parent’s/guardian's permission. You also have to be willing to attend regular meetings.

Do I have to buy my own uniform?

No. The Canadian Forces loan complete uniforms to Cadets. In return, Cadets are expected to take good care of their uniform.

If I don’t pay to join Cadets, then who pays?

The major partners in the Cadet Program are the Department of National Defence, the Navy League of Canada, the Army Cadet League of Canada and the Air Cadet League of Canada (all civilian non-profit corporations.) These organizations work together to provide the facilities and material required to operate each Cadet Corps and Squadron.

Though there is no cost to participate in the program, the help of parents is welcome at cadets corps and squadrons

What will I do at weekly meetings?

Some of the activities you can expect at your unit include ceremonial drill, first aid, sports, and citizenship events that support your community. Many Corps and Squadrons have a music program. Occasional weekend activities include sailing, camping and marksmanship. There will also be plenty of time to have fun and make new friends!

What about summer camps?

For those interested, Cadets have summer camps located across Canada. Cadets can go to camp for two to eight weeks on a variety of courses. Each camp offers a unique mixture of outdoor activities and valuable instruction. Attendance at Cadet Summer Camps is free. The Canadian Forces provide all transportation, meals, lodging and special equipment. Every Cadet attending summer camp receives a training allowance; Cadets in staff positions at camp receive a salary.

What do I do at summer camp?

Courses offered at Sea Cadet summer camps include training in leadership, instructional techniques, music, marksmanship, sailing, aerospace studies, ceremonial drill, marine engineering, medical assistance, physical education, environmental stewardship, computer skills, and citizenship. Top Cadets may take part in the National Sea Cadet Regatta, or they may receive training onboard a Tall Ship, a Canadian Navy ship or a Canadian Coast Guard vessel.

Courses offered at Army Cadet summer camps include training in leadership, instructional techniques, music, marksmanship, summer biathlon, aerospace studies, map & compass, camping and adventure activities, ceremonial drill, physical education, computer skills, and citizenship. Advanced courses include training in leadership, rock climbing, kayaking, Voyageur Canoe trips, trekking, marksmanship, music and the military Basic Parachutist Course.

Courses offered at Air Cadet summer camps include training in leadership, instructional techniques, music, marksmanship, flying, navigation, meteorology, air traffic control, ceremonial drill, physical education, computer skills, survival training, aerospace studies and citizenship. Advanced Cadets can qualify for glider scholarships and powered flight scholarships.

Are there travel opportunities?

Definitely! For summer training, Cadets travel to one of 28 Summer Camps located in different parts of Canada. In addition, selected Cadets go on exchange trips to countries such as the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Bermuda, Japan, Sweden, South Korea, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Scotland, Wales, Italy, Australia, Singapore, Turkey, the United States and Belgium under an international exchange program. Exchange Cadets are selected on their high standards in performance, fitness and involvement in Cadet activities.

Who instructs Cadets?

Cadets learn from members of the Cadet Instructors Cadre, officers who are specially trained to instruct and supervise youth. In some cases, civilian volunteers who possess special skills are called in to assist Cadet Instructors. Both the Cadet Instructors and civilian volunteers have chosen to dedicate their valuable time to helping Cadets reach their potential.

Will I be expected to join the Canadian Forces?

No. Cadets make absolutely no commitments regarding future military service, and are free to leave at any time. However, those who decide to join the Forces later on start out with the advantage of having learned valuable skills through Cadets.

What we do to ensure safety?

All of our instructors and cadets receive Cadet Harassment and Abuse Prevention training to promote a safe harassment-free environment. As well, all activities are supervised by qualified individuals who are specifically trained with safety in mind.