New to cadets? Here's what parents ask most.
What does it cost?
Joining is free and uniforms are provided. Optional activities, like trips, may have modest costs. Cost should never keep a young person out of the program — talk to your squadron if it's a barrier.
What's the time commitment?
One training night per week, plus optional weekend activities and summer training. Cadets get out of the program what they put in — but school comes first, and staff will say the same.
Is this military recruitment?
No. Cadets carries no obligation of military service. It's a youth development program focused on leadership, citizenship, and aviation — run in partnership with the Canadian Armed Forces, but entirely voluntary and civilian in its aims.
Who runs the program?
Squadron staff (CIC officers and civilian instructors) run training; volunteer sponsoring committees (mostly parents) handle finances and community support. That's where you come in — SSCs always welcome new members.
Who do I contact about…?
- Your cadet's training or attendance: the squadron staff
- Squadron fundraising or assessments: your squadron's sponsoring committee
- Provincial programs, Cash Calendar, facilities: the APC