Q: WHAT ACTIVITIES DO CADETS PARTICIPATE IN?
A: There are mandatory activities that take place on Thursday evenings, called parade nights. It is expected that all cadets will attend the parade night each week, though leave can be granted if a cadet is sick or has too much schoolwork. During parade nights, cadets are trained in marching,
aviation studies, leadership, physical fitness and marksmanship. There are also optional activities taking palce each week that cadets may participate in, such as Band, Drill Team, First Aid Team and Ground School, as well as numerous other trips and training activities throughout the year.
Q: WHO INSTRUCTS CADETS?
A: The Squadron staff is composed of a mix of Officers and Civilian Volunteers. The Officers are Reserve Members of the Canadian Forces, who are specifically trained to manage the cadet program. They are assisted in some tasks by Civilian Volunteers, who are not members of the military.
Q: ARE CADETS PART OF THE MILITARY?
A: No, cadets are not part of the military, although they will interact with and be trained by members of the Canadian Forces. Cadets will learn about possible careers in the military which might interest them, but will not be required to join.
Q: WHAT OPTIONS ARE THERE FOR SUMMER TRAINING?
A: Cadets may apply for summer training courses. There are limited courses available, and priority will be given to cadets with the best record of attendance and deportment. The first course offered is General Training, which is a 2 week course. As cadets progress through the program, the
courses that they may apply for will become longer and more advanced. The most advanced courses are 6 or 7 weeks long, and involve learning complex skills, such as wilderness survival, aircraft maintenance, or learning to fly an airplane.
Q: IS THERE A COST TO JOIN?
A: The mandatory training program is funded by the Department of National Defence in partnership with the Air Cadet League of Canada. Any additional costs associated with running the Squadron are covered by the local Squadron Sponsoring Committee, which charges an Assessment Fee that varies every year. If a family is experiencing financial difficulty and is unable to pay, they should approach the Squadron Sponsoring Committee to discuss reducing or waiving the fee.