Q: WHAT IS THE CADET PROGRAM AND ITS PURPOSE?
A: The Canadian Cadet Organizations (CCO) manages the Cadet Program which includes the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets, Royal Canadian Army Cadets and the Royal Canadian Air Cadets. The Cadet Program is a national program for all young Canadians aged 12 to 18 who are interested in participating in a variety of fun, challenging and rewarding activities. These activities will encourage and help develop: physical fitness, leadership skills, engaged and active citizenship, and personal health and well-being.
Many cadets are high achieving students that go on to become Canada’s future leaders. The Government of Canada is committed to investing in our youth and expanding the reach of the program. Through the Cadet Program, young Canadians can experience positive development opportunities and strengthen communities across Canada.
Q: WHAT ACTIVITIES DO CADETS PARTICIPATE IN?
A: As a cadet you will learn to become an active and responsible member of your community. Regardless of which element you choose, you will make valuable contributions to Canadian society on a daily basis through citizenship and community-service activities. Air cadets focus on aviation-related activities including flying, gliding, and studies in aerospace.
Q: WHY SHOULD I JOIN CADETS?
A: The Cadet Program offers challenging experiences, friendships 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 for giving them a head-start in their career.
Did you know that Canadian astronauts Chris Hadfield, Marc Garneau and Jeremy Hansen are all former cadets? Many famous community leaders, athletes and celebrities are former cadets as well.
Q: ARE CADETS EXPECTED TO JOIN THE CANADIAN ARMED FORCES?
A: No, as a cadet you are not a member of the Canadian Armed Forces, and you are not expected to join the military. While you are introduced to Sea, Army or Air activities of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and certain traditions, you are also introduced to many other career options outside of the CAF.
Q: WHAT OPTIONS ARE THERE FOR SUMMER TRAINING?
A: For many cadets, participating in summer training is the highlight of their year. The many diverse training opportunities offered during the summer months, including the Cadet Training Centre (CTC) Courses, the Technology and Digital Learning Centre (TDLC), and the National Cadet Advisory Council (NCAC) are the perfect occasion to make friends for life during experiences youth will never forget.
For more information on summer training, please see here.
Q: IS THERE A COST TO JOIN?
A: The program is funded by the Department of National Defence in partnership with the Air Cadet League of Canada. There are no fees or costs required to be a cadet and any league, sponsor, or assessment fees are optional donations (not mandatory). To be clear, there is no cost or requirement to pay to be a cadet.