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About the Cadet Program
What is it?
The Cadet Program is the largest federally-sponsored youth program in Canada that includes the Royal Canadian Sea, Army and Air Cadets. It is a national program for young Canadians aged 12 to 18 who are interested in participating in a variety of fun, challenging and rewarding activities while learning about the sea, army and air activities of the Canadian Forces.
Cadets are encouraged to become active, responsible members of their communities.They make valuable contributions to Canadian society on a daily basis in terms of environmental, citizenship and community activities.
Cadets also learn valuable life and work skills such as teamwork, leadership and citizenship. Cadets are not members of the Canadian Forces, nor are they expected to join the military. Cadets is a great way for youth to learn more about Canada, make new friends and develop life skills that will enable them to succeed no matter what career they choose.
Cadets choose to join either the Sea, Army or Air Cadet Program. Sea Cadets learn seamanship skills and how to sail. Army Cadets focus on adventure training activities such as outdoor activities and international expeditions. Air Cadets learn the principles of aviation, with some learning to become glider pilots, pilots of engine-propelled aircraft or both.
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What else do I need to know?
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Viable Alternative - The Cadet Program is funded by the Department of National Defence in partnership with the civilian Navy League, Army Cadet League and Air Cadet League of Canada. The civilian sponsor requires local community support to meet its obligations that include accommodations, training aids and equipment and program enhancements not otherwise provided. Parents and cadets are expected to participate in and contribute to fund-raising as required by the League’s local sponsoring element
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Diversity
The Cadet Program is open to all Canadians from the ages of 12 to 18 regardless of income, race, religion, culture or other socioeconomic factors. The Program embraces Canada’s multiculturalism and offers young Canadians opportunities to interact with youth from other cultures.
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Teaching Values
The Cadet Program emphasizes key values such as loyalty, professionalism, mutual respect and integrity. Cadets also learn about fair play, teamwork and tolerance through all of their activities.
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Staying in school
Cadets are motivated to work hard at school in order to qualify for international exchanges and other rewards. They are taught related skills such as effective speaking and instructional techniques which lend to an increased level of success in school.
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Advanced Training
Cadets who attend courses at summer training centres receive a training allocation. Many senior cadets can participate in advanced training opportunities full-time during the summer as instructors or support staff.
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Visits and Exchanges
Cadets meet other young adults from across Canada and from foreign countries while participating in annual national and international exchanges.
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Future Leaders
Former Cadets have found success in a variety of fields and have given back to Canada and the world. Cadet Alumni include astronauts Marc Garneau and Chris Hadfield, Major Maryse Carmichael (first female Snowbirds pilot), Senator Terry M. Mercer (Certified Fund Raising Executive), George Canyon (Country Music Artist) and Ms Afshin-Jam Nazanin (International human rights activist, Miss World Canada 2003 and Miss World 1st runner up).
Join cADETS TODAY!
Embarking on the remarkable journey of joining Air Cadets in Canada unveils a world of endless possibilities. From soaring through the skies to honing leadership skills, cadets thrive in a nurturing environment. The comprehensive training program encompasses aviation knowledge, physical fitness, and teamwork, preparing cadets for a future of excellence. With access to cutting-edge facilities and experienced mentors, cadets develop a strong sense of discipline and resilience. Joining Air Cadets opens doors to lifelong friendships and a passion for aviation that knows no bounds. Embrace the thrill of flight and let your aspirations take wing with the Air Cadets in Canada.
Become an Air Cadet
There are no registration fees or dues to join the Cadet Program. Upon joining, uniforms and accouterments are provided free of charge while you are actively enrolled in 11 RCACS. Cadets and parents are encouraged to participate in and contribute to fundraising on behalf of the Local Sponsoring Committee and League, to offset costs not covered by the Department of National Defence.
Requirements
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Have reached their 12th birthday; however, have not reached their 19th Birthday
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Be able to legally reside in Canada through a Student Visa, Work Visa, Permanent Residency, or Canadian Citizenship.
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Be able to supply an original piece of government-issued ID, such as a birth certificate or immigration card, as proof of identity
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Be able to supply an original, Alberta Health Care card or Federal Health Care Card
Documents needed
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Fill out an Application for Membership in the Canadian Sea, Army, or Air Cadets Form (can be found here or at the bottom) CF 1158
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Bring the applicant's birth certificate and Alberta Health Care Card (A photocopy of both will be made and kept on the cadets' file)
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Government Issue Identification
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If you do not have government issue identification or a federal/provincial health care card or neither please speak with the Administration Officer as there may be an alternative. Please note, certain individual situations may require further documentation which will be provided by the Administration.
Questions?
If you have any further questions, please contact
11 Lethbridge Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron
