Q: How old do you have to be to join Army Cadets?

A: You must be between the ages of 12 and 18. To receive full benefit from the Army Cadet system, it is best (although not required) to join before the age of 16. Applicants 16 or older may wish to pursue a career with the Canadian Forces Army Reserve.


Q: When/Where do you train?

A: We train every Tuesday evening from 6:15 pm - 9:15 pm (September to June) in the 'D2' building, located in the old Currie barracks (Crowchild Tr. across from the Museum of the Regiments).


Q: What do you actually 'do' on the average (Tuesday) evening?

A: The average Tuesday evening consists of an opening and closing parade, with lectures (and breaks) in between. These lectures can range from practical lessons, such as map & compass, drill, or firearm handling skills, to lessons about Army Cadet history, physical fitness, or leadership. The weekend training is when we put alot of these skills into action. We also offer a variety of extra-curricular activities, such as abseiling (repelling), rock climbing, first-aid, and white-water rafting (just to name a few).

Our corps also has a number of active teams. Currently, our corps boasts an elite Biathlon, shooting, and drill team which placed 3rd in Alberta in 2005.


Q: What else can one do in Army cadets?

A: The Army Cadet system offers a variety of advanced training activities, in addition to the regular yearly training. Cadets can attend international exchanges to Australia, England, Germany, and the United States (just to name a few). Cadets can also attend courses ranging from advanced Leadership & Challenge in the Canadian Rockies, to a military Parachutist course, and become qualified paratroopers! The options are virtually endless.


Q: Are Cadets Paid?

A: No. However, Cadets who complete various summer training programs receive a 'training bonus' (approx. $60/wk), and senior cadets can staff these programs, earning very reasonable wages.


Q: Will I be expected to join the Army/CF after cadets?

A: No. There is no obligation whatsoever to the Canadian Forces, since cadets technically aren't members of the CF. However, if you choose to pursue a career in the CF, you will find you have learned many valuable skills. Many of our former cadets have pursued exciting careers in the CF. The Canadian Forces also offers a number of incentives to former cadets.


Q: Besides certain practical skills, what else can cadets offer me?

A: The Canadian Cadet system is like no other in the world. After a period in Army cadets, you can benefit from real-world problem solving skills, leadership, management, public speaking skills, and so much more. Tenure in Cadets can also provide valuable work experience for virtually any job that requires leadership skills, management, interaction with the public, and organization.


Q: I'm a parent, how can I get involved?

A: We have a very active 'Civillian Governing Board', which consists of parents, officers, and other interested civillians. For more information about the CGB, please visit the CGB section of our website.


Q: Who runs the corps? Who's in Charge?

A: The cadet corps is run by a team of officers who are members of the CIC (Cadet Instructors Cadre), a special branch of the Canadian Forces reserve. CIC officers are members of the CF Reserve who are trained specially for working with youth. Often times, these officers are themselves former members of the regular army, or past cadets. In addition, our corps has several volunteers and civillian instructors who aid in the training and administration of the corps. Please see our 'Corps Staff' section, for more information.