Frequently Asked Questions

Joining
Training
Uniforms
Parents

1. Joining the Program

I am new to Cadets. Where do I start?

Come to The Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC) meetings

  • No commitment is required; you are welcome to attend, listen, and learn.

  • You will meet the members of the SSC and other individuals like yourself who are also involved with cadets in the program

  • You will hear about what is happening in the squadron

The Cadet Program is for youth between the ages of 12-18. You become eligible on the day of your 12th birthday.

Start your registration by visiting our {872 RCACS Registration Page}.

Before beginning, make sure you have the following information ready:

  • Your health card number

  • The addresses and phone numbers of all parents/guardians

No! To join, you must be a legal resident of Canada. A legal resident of Canada is a Canadian citizen, a landed immigrant, or the dependant of a person who is temporarily a lawfully a resident in Canada for the purpose of education or employment.

We meet every Wednesday night (September to June) at AY Jackson High School located at 150 Abbeyhill Dr.,  Kanata, ON from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM. In addition to this, we conduct a number of optional activities other nights of the week and or weekends throughout the training year.

All cadets are encouraged to be physically active and take part in a number of physically demanding activities throughout the training year, but there is no standard of medical fitness for those wishing to join cadets. 

While the Cadet program does foster a better understanding of the Canadian military, and the Department of National Defence provides funding and support for the program, Cadets are absolutely NOT in the military! As a cadet, you will interact with the Canadian Armed Forces regularly at events like airshows, courses, and events, such as the annual Remembrance Day ceremony. Every year, we see a few cadets who might choose to go onward to a military career, but it is not required. Air Cadets teach valuable life skills that you will take with you on whatever path you choose.

No, there is no mandatory fee to join the air cadets. However, each squadron is co-sponsored by a Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC). This group of volunteers, regulated by the Air Cadet League of Canada, supports extra-curricular activities such as musical instruments for the band, social events, and other non-funded costs. A voluntary donation of $90 is requested at enrolment, to help the squadron meet its goals for these opportunities. 

Cadets are not paid during the training year (September – June). However, cadets who attend summer training receive a training bonus during their course, and senior cadets who return to summer training as Staff Cadets are paid a daily wage.

There are two types of uniforms that cadets receive. The Field Training Uniform (FTU; a.k.a. the green Field Training Uniform”) and Distinctive Environmental Uniform (DEU; a.k.a. the Blue Dress Uniform). Both are provided on loan at no charge to the cadet for the duration of their membership. All uniform items MUST be returned upon leaving the program.

To speak to our staff, please email 872aviation@cadets.gc.ca with your contact details. 

Cadet Program: Frequently asked questions – Canada.ca

For safety reasons, only staff and individuals who are screening are permitted in cadet areas. We understand that the first day can be a big step for both cadets and their parents. It’s also an exciting milestone, marking the point at which your cadet begins learning to navigate the program independently. Rest assured, your cadet is in good hands. The program is supported by experienced senior cadets and supervised by trained staff members who have undergone extensive training to ensure a safe, welcoming, and well-structured environment. 

We recommend that you support your cadet by encouraging them to follow the chain of command and speak with their Flight Commander first (the senior in charge of their flight/group). One of the program’s goals is to help cadets develop independence, responsibility, and confidence. Learning to ask questions and seek guidance is part of that journey. 

2. Training & Activities

When is cadet training held and where?

We meet every Wednesday night (September to June) at AY Jackson High School located at 150 Abbeyhill Dr.,  Kanata, ON from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM. In addition to this, we conduct a number of optional activities other nights of the week and or weekends throughout the training year.

What is FTX?

An FTX (Field Training Exercise) is an outdoor training event that usually takes place twice a year – once in the fall and once in the spring. During an FTX, cadets learn and practice field skills such as map reading, navigation, shelter building, teamwork, and outdoor safety.

Cadets attend a regular training night every Wednesday — this is the core part of the program. In addition, they can choose to participate in optional activities such as:

  • Band

  • Drill Team

  • Drones (ages 14 and up)

  • Rocketry

  • Radio Communications

  • Effective Speaking

  • Marksmanship Team

  • Biathlon Team

These teams and clubs offer great opportunities for cadets to build new skills, challenge themselves, and have fun outside of regular training nights.

Cadet training nights are busy and active. Whether they’re participating in drill, fitness, or classroom instruction, cadets need to be alert and energized. Most importantly, at the end of every Wednesday night, cadets have a final parade. Staying fueled and remaining hydrated helps cadets stay steady and comfortable during the closing parade, which often involves standing at attention for an extended period.
We recommend cadets eat dinner before arriving and bring a full water bottle to stay hydrated during the night. 

Teams is used as the primary communication and resource platform for our squadron. It’s a secure, centralized space where cadets can

 

  • Receive important announcements and schedule updates.

  • Access training materials and resources.

  • Submit assignment or forms.

  • Communicate with Staff (their level officer) and senior cadets (their Flight commander and peers in the program) in a secure and supervised environment.

  • Participate in a virtual session.

 

Your cadet needs to set up their Team account when it is issued to them to help them stay informed, organized and connected throughout their time in the program.

You don’t need to create an account. Cadets are issued a Microsoft Teams account by the squadron. Once their registration is processed and approved by the national system, they will receive an email at the email address you provided at registration for your cadet. The email will contain all the details needed to set up the account. If your cadet has any issues, please direct them to speak with their Flight Commander (the senior in charge of their flight/group). 

Teams is the official communication platform used by the squadron, ensuring that all cadets receive accurate, timely, and consistent information in a secure environment. 

3. Uniforms & Supply

What is the blue uniform called?

The blue uniform is called the C3 uniform, also known as the Distinctive Environmental Dress uniform (DEU). It is worn for Command Parade nights (held once a month), ceremonial events, and other formal activities. Cadets are expected to keep it clean, pressed, and worn according to uniform standards.

Cadets typically wear the blue (C3) uniform on:

  • Command Officer (CO) parade nights (First Wednesday of the month)

  • Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR)

  • Remembrance Day ceremonies

  • Formal events or inspections

  • Community parades (when required)

If the activity is formal or represents the Cadet Corps publicly, the blue uniform is usually worn. When in doubt, cadets should follow uniform instructions from their staff or check the weekly routine orders.

The green uniform is called the C5, and is known as the FTU (Field Training Uniform). It is designed for practical, hands-on activities and outdoor training such as FTXs, range days, and physical tasks. The FTU is more durable and comfortable for field conditions compared to the blue dress uniform.

4. Parents & Supporters

Why do I have to be screened to be with the cadets?

All adults who work with cadets – including volunteers, staff, and supporters – must complete a screening process to ensure the safety and well-being of all youth in the program. This includes a background check and reference verification.
The screening helps create a safe, respectful, and trusted environment for every cadet, in line with national child protection standards.

No. Being screened does not mean you’re committing to attend every event.
It simply means you’re eligible to help when you choose to. You can volunteer based on your availability and interests – whether it’s once a year or once a week.
Screening gives you the option to support cadets in a trusted role when you’re able.

We encourage parents to get screened so they can take a more active role in supporting the cadet program – whether that’s helping at events, driving cadets, supervising activities, or assisting with logistics.
Having more screened adults means we can safely run more activities and offer more opportunities to cadets. It also strengthens the partnership between families and the corps.
Screening ensures that all adult volunteers meet national safety standards and helps maintain a secure environment for all youth.

The Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC) is a group of carefully screened parents and community volunteers who support the squadron. While the cadet program itself is delivered by the staff (Canadian Armed Forces personnel), the SSC is responsible for:

  • Organizing fundraising activities

  • Managing squadron finances

  • Coordinating volunteer support for events and trips

  • Communicating with parents and the community

  • Ensuring the cadets had access to opportunities and resources
    The SSC plays a vital role in ensuring the squadron has what is needed to offer a fun, enriching, and well-supported program for all cadets. 

For safety and security reasons, Individuals waiting to pick up cadets must stay in designated areas. If you are unsure where to go, please speak to a member of the Sponsoring Squadron Committee (SSC) for guidance.

 

At A.Y. Jackson, parents may be invited to the balcony upstairs, which overlooks the cafetorium, to watch the closing parade and hear the announcements at the end of the night. However, because we are a large squadron, the balcony is often used to accommodate all the cadets when the cafetorium cannot hold everyone. On those evenings, we kindly ask that you wait downstairs or remain in your car.

Attend a Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC) meeting.

The SSC is always looking for parents, guardians and community members who are willing to help with fundraising and cadet activities. Here are some things you can do:

 

  1. Attend the Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC) meetings

  2. Join the SSC

  3. Get screened * – add link to why I should get screened answer*

  4. Volunteer at events (most require screening)

  5. Spread the word.
    Support the squadron by participating in and sharing fundraising campaigns with friends, family and co-workers.

SSC meetings are open to all parents, guardians and community members. Attending does not mean that you are committing to anything; it’s just a great way to learn more about what is happening in the squadron.

SSC meetings are where directors, SSC volunteers, parents, and community members come together to support the non-military aspects of squadron operations. These meetings are a great way to stay informed, get involved, and contribute to your cadet’s experience.

 

At a typical SSC meeting, you can expect

  • Updates from the commanding Officer (CO) about the squadron activities and upcoming events

  • Discussion of fundraising plans (i.e., Community Engagement days, Bottle drives, Spaghetti Dinner or special campaigns)

  • Financial reports outlining how funds are being raised and used to support the cadets

  • Planning for events such as trips, award nights, and community activities

  • Opportunities to volunteer and learn how you can help

  • Open floor for questions or suggestions from parents and guardians, and community members

Screening is part of our commitment to ensure a safe and secure environment for all cadets. Anyone entering the cadet activity area (such as cafetorium, classes, etc.) must be screened in accordance with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) protocols. This helps us verify who is present in the space, maintain accountability, and ensure the safety of youth during training nights and at squadron activities.

By completing the screening process, you’re able to help out when the squadron has events and activities that require volunteers in areas where cadets are present. It’s a great way to support the squadron and be more involved in your cadet’s experience. 

 

Please note that getting screened does not commit you to volunteering. It simply means that if an event or activity comes up that you’d like to help with, you’re already cleared and able to do so. This gives you the option to get involved without obligation. 

Canteen is a small snack shop run by the Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC). Usually, during the cadets’ long break on training night, the cadets can buy affordable snacks and drinks. All proceeds go directly back to support squadron activities and events like trips, training weekends or special equipment.

The Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC) is grateful for any donation of any single-serve pre-packaged snacks, drinks, candy, chocolate or funds to help keep the canteen stocked and affordable for all cadets. 

 

By donating to the canteen, you are directly supporting important squadron programs

Still have questions?
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