Frequently asked questions
- What do Army 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. - When do Cadets meet?
We meet during the school year every Wednesday night from 6:00 - 9:00 pm. There are optional activities on Saturdays such as Range, Band and First Aid. - 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, BC accepts 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. - What does it cost to join?
Unlike other youth programs, there is no enrollment fee to join the cadet program. However, cadets may be asked to take part in fundraising activities that support optional programming at the corps level. - Do I have to pay for my uniform?
No. The Canadian Forces loan complete uniforms to Cadets, and Cadets are expected to take good care of their uniform and return it when they leave the program. - What will I do at weekly meetings?
Some of the activities you can expect at your Cadet Corps include ceremonial drill, first aid, sports, and citizenship events that support your community. Occasional weekend activities include biathlon, camping, map & compass and marksmanship. There will also be plenty of time to have fun and make new friends! - What is there to do in the summer when school is out?
For those interested cadets there are opportunities to attend summer camps. 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 would I do at Summer Camp?
Courses offered at Army Cadet summer camps include training in leadership, instructional techniques, music, marksmanship, summer biathlon, map & compass, camping and adventure activities, ceremonial drill, physical education and citizenship. Advanced courses include training in leadership, rock climbing, kayaking, Voyageur Canoe trips, trekking, marksmanship, music and the military Basic Parachutist Course. - Are there opportunities to travel?
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 England, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Scotland, Wales and Italy under an international exchange program. Exchange Cadets are selected on their high standards in performance, fitness and involvement in Cadet activities. - 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. - OK. Everything sounds great....how do I join?
Just stop by on a Wednesday night. There is a registration form that must be filled out (and signed by your parent or guardian). Don't forget to bring your proof of provincial health coverage and legal residency (Canadian birth certificate, citizenship certificate).