If you are ready to join, simply complete the online application through the button below. When selecting a unit, simply type "2884" into the search field and our unit 2884 Royal Canadian Engineers Army Cadet Corps will pop up.
FAQs
Recruitment
WHO CAN JOIN ARMY CADETS?
Any Canadian youth aged 12-19 can join the cadet program.
I TURN 12 IN OCTOBER, CAN I STILL JOIN IN SEPTEMBER?
You must be 12 years old. If you turn 12 after the start of the training year, you can join us after your birthday. We accept new recruits all year long however, cadets who join us after the end of January may not be eligible for summer training opportunities.
WHAT ABOUT MEDICAL, PHYSICAL AND MENTAL CONDITIONS?
Any medical, physical or mental conditions must be disclosed by the cadet’s parent/guardian. While there is no minimum standard of medical fitness established for membership in a corps, there are minimum medical fitness standards for summer training and exchange programmes. You will be informed if your medical condition makes you ineligible to attend summer training.
DOES BECOMING A CADET MEAN I AM IN THE MILITARY?
No. The Cadet program fosters a better understanding of the Canadian Armed Forces, but cadets are not in the military.
AM I REQUIRED TO JOIN THE CANADIAN ARMED FORCES AFTER CADETS?
There is no obligation to join the Armed Forces. Of course, some cadets might choose to go onward to a military career, but it is not required. Cadets is above-all a leadership program for Canadian youth Cadets and you will learn life skills that you will take with you on whatever path your choose.
Costs/Fees
I’VE LOOKED EVERYWHERE AND I CAN’T FIND ANYTHING ON THE COST? HOW MUCH ARE REGISTRATION AND UNIFORM FEES?
Nothing. That’s right…cadets is free-of charge. The program is funded by the Department of National Defense (in partnership with the Army Cadet League of Canada). The cost of uniforms, along with most travel expenses, food, lodging, and training is assumed by DND. In order to allow for some extra program enhancements (training location, activities, training aids, etc.) the Support Committee coordinates additional local fundraising. Cadet participation in these fundraising activities is mandatory and cadets can only be excused by the CO.
IF THE PROGRAM IS FUNDED BY DND, WHY DO YOU NEED TO FUNDRAISE?
While the majority of the costs are covered by DND/Army Cadet League, not everything is. We fundraise in order to help cover costs of things such as:
Meals and snacks during optional activities, ACR;
Mess dinners;
Optional activities such as movie nights and the year-end trips;
Training equipment for various teams;
Sports equipment;
Permits for training locations;
Office supplies;
Website domains and hosting;
Other items in our yearly budget.
Training
WHAT DO ARMY CADETS DO?
Army cadets participate in a variety of activities including leadership, citizenship and more adventurous activities. There is a focus on military skills including drill, bushcraft, marksmanship and engineering skills. The program also provides a basic understanding of the Canadian military structure and working environment.
HOW OFTEN DO CADETS MEET?
Cadets train once a week from September until June. There are opportunities for additional training during the week for activities such as marksmanship, band and drill. These may take place either during the week or on the weekends. Check out our training calendar for details.
WHAT IS SUMMER TRAINING?
Cadets have the opportunity to attend summer training at various Cadet Training Centres across the country. Summer training is anywhere between 1 and 6 weeks during summer break. First and second year cadets will normally attend local day training at a Cadet Activity Program, while cadets in third year and up can specialize in different areas of training such as music, marksmanship, leadership, fitness and sports, etc. on three week courses at cadet training centres across Canada.
IS SUMMER TRAINING GUARANTEED?
No. Cadets interested in summer training must submit an application but not every cadet will get an offer of participation. Each corps is allotted a certain number of spots for each course. We will however, attempt to get as many cadets to camp as we can. Offers of participation sometimes come in sporadically so not everyone will get their offers at the same time. Some offers may come in as late as two days into a course, if there are cadets who do not show up or who are sent home for medical reasons on arrival.
CAN I GET HIGH SCHOOL CREDITS FOR BEING A CADET?
Yes! Cadets who are high school students in Ontario taking at least one credit course can receive credit for their training at the corps during the training year, and those who attend a summer course in Ontario can also receive academic credits through the cadet co-op program.
I HEARD THAT YOU GET PAID TO BE A CADET. IS THIS TRUE?
No, but also…yes.
Cadets are not paid for regular training that takes place September – June. Cadets who are invited to attend summer training at one of the Cadet Training Centres (CTCs) receive a training bonus at the end of the summer ($10/day up to $60/week). In addition, senior cadets who return to the CTC as staff cadets (like camp counsellors) are paid a daily wage. Most staff cadets are 16-18 years of age and they make a pretty good salary for the summer.
THIS IS ARMY CADETS…DOES THAT MEAN I GET TO SHOOT GUNS?
After being properly training and safety precautions and handling procedures, and proving that you are responsible, you can participate in the marksman training activities. You will even have the opportunity to be selected to participate on the marksmanship team and represent our corps in competitions. Cadets use air rifles a the unit atnd are supervised at all times by the Range Safety Officer (RSO), senior cadets and coaches. Biathlon teams use the 22 cal Anshutz rifle, and older cadets also have an opportunity each year to shoot the C7A2 automatic rifle used by the Canadian military.
ARE PEOPLE GOING TO BE BOSSING ME AROUND?
You will not be “bossed around” but there will be senior cadets and Officers that are in charge of you. You will be guided by them and are expected to follow instructions provided by them. As you progress through the program, you will start to take on more leadership roles and one day, you may even have a troop of your own to guide and teach.
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR TRAINING THE CADETS?
Officers of the Cadet Instructor Cadre (CIC) are mainly responsible for the training and supervision of cadets. These are members of the Canadian Forces reserve force who have been trained to deliver the cadet program. They have regular civilian jobs and work with cadets part-time for which they are paid 25 days a year. This typically covers training nights and the three FTXs, The officer staff put in many hours on a volunteer basis to keep optional activities running.
I’M REALLY SHY…WILL I FIT IN AND MAKE FRIENDS?
Absolutely! It doesn’t matter if you are shy or outgoing, you will meet many new people and who knows…some of them might become really close friends. Cadets are divided into Star Levels (Green, Red, Gold and Silver). Each level attends all their classes and training together, so you will get to know the cadets in your star level quite well. Joining one of the teams such as drill, band or marksmanship is another great way to get know some of your fellow cadets. If you are worried about making friends…register with one of your friends!
DO WE GET TO TRAVEL?
This depends greatly on your level of involvement. The corps will organize some activities and training which may take place in other parts of the city such as Kanata. Some teams may have to travel for competitions and some summer training may occur outside of the Southwest Middlesex area. You may be eligible to apply for an overseas exchange with 20-30 cadets from all over Canada!
WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET HURT DURING TRAINING OR AN ACTIVITY?
Many of our instructors and some of our cadets are first-aid qualified. In the unlikely event that a cadet gets injured, there are policies in place to make sure they get the proper treatment.
Uniform
HOW DO I GET A UNIFORM?
Cadets will be issued two uniforms – a dress uniform and a field training uniform (FTUs or “combats”)once you have met the 'time in service' requirements. You will receive a measurement sheet to ensure proper sizing. Both uniforms are provided at no cost to you and MUST be returned when you leave the program. If you don't have a uniform yet, you can wear black pants and a white button-down shirt to training.
MY SHIRT/PANTS/BOOTS DON’T FIT. WHAT DO I DO?
As cadets grow, it is expected that their uniform pieces will need to be replaced. If you need new pieces, please complete this Google form. You will be required to clean the pieces being replaced and bring them to the Supply Officer on the next training night. If you are replacing your tunic, you will need to remove all badges prior to returning the old tunic and sew all the badges onto your new tunic.
Parents
WHAT’S EXPECTED OF ME AS A PARENT?
Parents are expected to:
Bring cadets to weekly training and stay on-site until an Officer has arrived;
Arrive 10-15 minutes early to pick up cadets from training activities. This will allow parents to hear announcements and ensure that cadets are pick up on time;
Attend CO’s Parades and the Annual Ceremonial Review to show support for your cadet;
Help with activities, when needed;
Help your cadet learn to take care of their uniform;
Encourage your cadet to follow their “chain-of-command”;
Encourage your cadet to use the Facebook page (accessible without a Facebook account) and the website as a resource for information;
HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD BE SUCCESSFUL IN CADETS?
The best thing you can do is to provide support and encouragement. Cadets is a leadership program and teaches our kids to take responsibility. Caring for the uniform is their job – not yours. Teach them to wash, dry and iron their uniform but don’t do it for them. Show them how to access the webpage and the Facebook page to get information, but don’t do it for them. When you get the inevitable question “What time do I have to be at XYZ activity?” help them to look for the answer themselves, even if you already know it. If your cadet is running into difficulties during training, encourage them to follow their chain-of-command to help resolve the issue. This doesn’t mean don’t ever talk to anyone but do let your child try to resolve their own problems before getting involved yourselves. Encourage your child to take responsibility his/her cadet career and be there to cheer them on and celebrate all the victories, no matter how big or small.
I CAN’T COMMIT TO JOINING THE SUPPORT COMMITTEE. HOW ELSE CAN I HELP?
Life is busy. We are parents, just like you, and we understand how crazy life with kids can be. You don’t have to join the Support Committee to help out. We are happy to have any assistance from parents or guardians or grandparents or uncles or aunts or…
Be on the lookout for opportunities to volunteer your time…even if it is only an hour! We always need help driving Cadets to fundraising activities, organizing and preparing for activities, handing out meals, etc. If you have any special skills, such as building webpages, graphic design, marketing etc. we may be able to put those to good use as well! Any and all support is greatly appreciated not only by the Committee but also by the Officers and cadets.
I’D LIKE TO TALK TO SOMEONE IN CHARGE. WHO DO I CONTACT?
We are committee to providing a program where cadets enjoy themselves and have fun. While we encourage cadets to follow their chain-of-command to resolve any issues, open communication between parents and the corps is important. If at any time you have questions or concerns, send us an email or visit us in person during training nights. We are happy to set up an appointment and discuss any particular concerns.
Recruitment
WHO CAN JOIN ARMY CADETS?
Any Canadian youth aged 12-19 can join the cadet program.
I TURN 12 IN OCTOBER, CAN I STILL JOIN IN SEPTEMBER?
You must be 12 years old. If you turn 12 after the start of the training year, you can join us after your birthday. We accept new recruits all year long however, cadets who join us after the end of January may not be eligible for summer training opportunities.
WHAT ABOUT MEDICAL, PHYSICAL AND MENTAL CONDITIONS?
Any medical, physical or mental conditions must be disclosed by the cadet’s parent/guardian. While there is no minimum standard of medical fitness established for membership in a corps, there are minimum medical fitness standards for summer training and exchange programmes. You will be informed if your medical condition makes you ineligible to attend summer training.
DOES BECOMING A CADET MEAN I AM IN THE MILITARY?
No. The Cadet program fosters a better understanding of the Canadian Armed Forces, but cadets are not in the military.
AM I REQUIRED TO JOIN THE CANADIAN ARMED FORCES AFTER CADETS?
There is no obligation to join the Armed Forces. Of course, some cadets might choose to go onward to a military career, but it is not required. Cadets is above-all a leadership program for Canadian youth Cadets and you will learn life skills that you will take with you on whatever path your choose.
Costs/Fees
I’VE LOOKED EVERYWHERE AND I CAN’T FIND ANYTHING ON THE COST? HOW MUCH ARE REGISTRATION AND UNIFORM FEES?
Nothing. That’s right…cadets is free-of charge. The program is funded by the Department of National Defense (in partnership with the Army Cadet League of Canada). The cost of uniforms, along with most travel expenses, food, lodging, and training is assumed by DND. In order to allow for some extra program enhancements (training location, activities, training aids, etc.) the Support Committee coordinates additional local fundraising. Cadet participation in these fundraising activities is mandatory and cadets can only be excused by the CO.
IF THE PROGRAM IS FUNDED BY DND, WHY DO YOU NEED TO FUNDRAISE?
While the majority of the costs are covered by DND/Army Cadet League, not everything is. We fundraise in order to help cover costs of things such as:
Meals and snacks during optional activities, ACR;
Mess dinners;
Optional activities such as movie nights and the year-end trips;
Training equipment for various teams;
Sports equipment;
Permits for training locations;
Office supplies;
Website domains and hosting;
Other items in our yearly budget.
Training
WHAT DO ARMY CADETS DO?
Army cadets participate in a variety of activities including leadership, citizenship and more adventurous activities. There is a focus on military skills including drill, bushcraft, marksmanship and engineering skills. The program also provides a basic understanding of the Canadian military structure and working environment.
HOW OFTEN DO CADETS MEET?
Cadets train once a week from September until June. There are opportunities for additional training during the week for activities such as marksmanship, band and drill. These may take place either during the week or on the weekends. Check out our training calendar for details.
WHAT IS SUMMER TRAINING?
Cadets have the opportunity to attend summer training at various Cadet Training Centres across the country. Summer training is anywhere between 1 and 6 weeks during summer break. First and second year cadets will normally attend local day training at a Cadet Activity Program, while cadets in third year and up can specialize in different areas of training such as music, marksmanship, leadership, fitness and sports, etc. on three week courses at cadet training centres across Canada.
IS SUMMER TRAINING GUARANTEED?
No. Cadets interested in summer training must submit an application but not every cadet will get an offer of participation. Each corps is allotted a certain number of spots for each course. We will however, attempt to get as many cadets to camp as we can. Offers of participation sometimes come in sporadically so not everyone will get their offers at the same time. Some offers may come in as late as two days into a course, if there are cadets who do not show up or who are sent home for medical reasons on arrival.
CAN I GET HIGH SCHOOL CREDITS FOR BEING A CADET?
Yes! Cadets who are high school students in Ontario taking at least one credit course can receive credit for their training at the corps during the training year, and those who attend a summer course in Ontario can also receive academic credits through the cadet co-op program.
I HEARD THAT YOU GET PAID TO BE A CADET. IS THIS TRUE?
No, but also…yes.
Cadets are not paid for regular training that takes place September – June. Cadets who are invited to attend summer training at one of the Cadet Training Centres (CTCs) receive a training bonus at the end of the summer ($10/day up to $60/week). In addition, senior cadets who return to the CTC as staff cadets (like camp counsellors) are paid a daily wage. Most staff cadets are 16-18 years of age and they make a pretty good salary for the summer.
THIS IS ARMY CADETS…DOES THAT MEAN I GET TO SHOOT GUNS?
After being properly training and safety precautions and handling procedures, and proving that you are responsible, you can participate in the marksman training activities. You will even have the opportunity to be selected to participate on the marksmanship team and represent our corps in competitions. Cadets use air rifles a the unit atnd are supervised at all times by the Range Safety Officer (RSO), senior cadets and coaches. Biathlon teams use the 22 cal Anshutz rifle, and older cadets also have an opportunity each year to shoot the C7A2 automatic rifle used by the Canadian military.
ARE PEOPLE GOING TO BE BOSSING ME AROUND?
You will not be “bossed around” but there will be senior cadets and Officers that are in charge of you. You will be guided by them and are expected to follow instructions provided by them. As you progress through the program, you will start to take on more leadership roles and one day, you may even have a troop of your own to guide and teach.
WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR TRAINING THE CADETS?
Officers of the Cadet Instructor Cadre (CIC) are mainly responsible for the training and supervision of cadets. These are members of the Canadian Forces reserve force who have been trained to deliver the cadet program. They have regular civilian jobs and work with cadets part-time for which they are paid 25 days a year. This typically covers training nights and the three FTXs, The officer staff put in many hours on a volunteer basis to keep optional activities running.
I’M REALLY SHY…WILL I FIT IN AND MAKE FRIENDS?
Absolutely! It doesn’t matter if you are shy or outgoing, you will meet many new people and who knows…some of them might become really close friends. Cadets are divided into Star Levels (Green, Red, Gold and Silver). Each level attends all their classes and training together, so you will get to know the cadets in your star level quite well. Joining one of the teams such as drill, band or marksmanship is another great way to get know some of your fellow cadets. If you are worried about making friends…register with one of your friends!
DO WE GET TO TRAVEL?
This depends greatly on your level of involvement. The corps will organize some activities and training which may take place in other parts of the city such as Kanata. Some teams may have to travel for competitions and some summer training may occur outside of the Southwest Middlesex area. You may be eligible to apply for an overseas exchange with 20-30 cadets from all over Canada!
WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET HURT DURING TRAINING OR AN ACTIVITY?
Many of our instructors and some of our cadets are first-aid qualified. In the unlikely event that a cadet gets injured, there are policies in place to make sure they get the proper treatment.
Uniform
HOW DO I GET A UNIFORM?
Cadets will be issued two uniforms – a dress uniform and a field training uniform (FTUs or “combats”)once you have met the 'time in service' requirements. You will receive a measurement sheet to ensure proper sizing. Both uniforms are provided at no cost to you and MUST be returned when you leave the program. If you don't have a uniform yet, you can wear black pants and a white button-down shirt to training.
MY SHIRT/PANTS/BOOTS DON’T FIT. WHAT DO I DO?
As cadets grow, it is expected that their uniform pieces will need to be replaced. If you need new pieces, please complete this Google form. You will be required to clean the pieces being replaced and bring them to the Supply Officer on the next training night. If you are replacing your tunic, you will need to remove all badges prior to returning the old tunic and sew all the badges onto your new tunic.
Parents
WHAT’S EXPECTED OF ME AS A PARENT?
Parents are expected to:
Bring cadets to weekly training and stay on-site until an Officer has arrived;
Arrive 10-15 minutes early to pick up cadets from training activities. This will allow parents to hear announcements and ensure that cadets are pick up on time;
Attend CO’s Parades and the Annual Ceremonial Review to show support for your cadet;
Help with activities, when needed;
Help your cadet learn to take care of their uniform;
Encourage your cadet to follow their “chain-of-command”;
Encourage your cadet to use the Facebook page (accessible without a Facebook account) and the website as a resource for information;
HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD BE SUCCESSFUL IN CADETS?
The best thing you can do is to provide support and encouragement. Cadets is a leadership program and teaches our kids to take responsibility. Caring for the uniform is their job – not yours. Teach them to wash, dry and iron their uniform but don’t do it for them. Show them how to access the webpage and the Facebook page to get information, but don’t do it for them. When you get the inevitable question “What time do I have to be at XYZ activity?” help them to look for the answer themselves, even if you already know it. If your cadet is running into difficulties during training, encourage them to follow their chain-of-command to help resolve the issue. This doesn’t mean don’t ever talk to anyone but do let your child try to resolve their own problems before getting involved yourselves. Encourage your child to take responsibility his/her cadet career and be there to cheer them on and celebrate all the victories, no matter how big or small.
I CAN’T COMMIT TO JOINING THE SUPPORT COMMITTEE. HOW ELSE CAN I HELP?
Life is busy. We are parents, just like you, and we understand how crazy life with kids can be. You don’t have to join the Support Committee to help out. We are happy to have any assistance from parents or guardians or grandparents or uncles or aunts or…
Be on the lookout for opportunities to volunteer your time…even if it is only an hour! We always need help driving Cadets to fundraising activities, organizing and preparing for activities, handing out meals, etc. If you have any special skills, such as building webpages, graphic design, marketing etc. we may be able to put those to good use as well! Any and all support is greatly appreciated not only by the Committee but also by the Officers and cadets.
I’D LIKE TO TALK TO SOMEONE IN CHARGE. WHO DO I CONTACT?
We are committee to providing a program where cadets enjoy themselves and have fun. While we encourage cadets to follow their chain-of-command to resolve any issues, open communication between parents and the corps is important. If at any time you have questions or concerns, send us an email or visit us in person during training nights. We are happy to set up an appointment and discuss any particular concerns.
WHAT IS CADETS ALL ABOUT?
CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO JOIN IN ON THE FUN!
CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO JOIN IN ON THE FUN!
- Invite all Canadian youth – Cadets are open to all youth age 12 to 18 that are Canadian citizens or are authorized to reside in Canada. Although, the program is expected to be physically and mentally challenging, there will be no artificial barriers developed which preclude participation based on gender, race, culture, religion, education, socioeconomic status or ability. The programs will make reasonable efforts to accommodate.
- Instill Canadian Military Values – The development of the Cadet Program is guided by the best of Canadian military values and ethics. These values include respecting the dignity of all people, serving Canada before self, and obeying and supporting lawful authorities. Additionally, cadets will gain better appreciation of the specific values of duty, loyalty, integrity, courage, stewardship, and excellence as expected of all Canadian Armed Forces members.
- Develop Citizenship, Leadership, and Fitness – the Cadet program helps participants progressively develop into adults who contribute positively to Canadian society as leaders, while instilling a lifelong appreciation of health and fitness.
- Balance Safety and Challenge – Youth and their parents will have confidence that the activities and events the Cadets deliver are challenging, yet safe. They will also be confident that the adults leading the program are of unquestionably high moral characters and are focused on the development of the Cadets
- there is no cost to join this program
If you are ready to join, simply complete the online application through the button below. When selecting a unit, simply type "2884" into the search field and our unit 2884 Royal Canadian Engineers Army Cadet Corps will pop up.
