What are the requirements to join Army Cadets?

To be an Army Cadet you:

• must have reached your 12th birthday, but not be older than 18;

• must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;

• will be required to fill out some paperwork, which must be signed by your parent or guardian; and

• are required to show a valid BC Care Card and birth certificate, Canadian passport, citizenship card, or permanent resident card.

How long must I stay in Army Cadets once I join?

A cadet is free to leave the Army Cadet program at any time; however, new cadets are encouraged to try the program for at least three months before deciding to leave.

We will teach the cadets everything you need to know to be an Army Cadet. All cadets must be willing to work and learn in a team environment, accept new challenges and learn from mistakes. This may seem like a lot, but we are always here to help and a cadet will have plenty of time to learn these important skills and concepts.

Do I have to join the Canadian Armed Forces after I’m done cadets?

No. There is absolutely no obligation to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces. Some Army Cadets choose to join the Canadian Armed Forces after finishing with the cadet program, but it is strictly their choice. Please note that cadets are NOT members of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Do I have to buy my uniform or any special equipment?

Uniforms are issued by the Department of National Defense, free of charge; however, a cadet’s responsibility is to care for it and return it once their membership has ended.

For uniform maintenance, a cadet would to purchase shoe polish for boots among other items. Cadets are recommended to purchase items for Field Training also. These items will be specified upon joining.

Are there any other costs in being an Army Cadet?

No! The program is absolutely free. We try to mitigate costs as much as possible. However, there may be extra fun items like team shirts and sweaters that may not be covered. Those types of items will have to be covered out of the cadets’ own pocket.

How do cadets get promoted?

Ranks are earned by qualification and merit. There are specific standards prescribed locally and nationally that cadets are assessed against to determine a promotion. Cadets who are given promotions are often cadets who have excellent attendance, achieve high uniform marks, are involved greatly within the unit, and have demonstrated a high standard of drill and deportment.

As a parent, how can I keep up-to-date with information?

All parents are asked to subscribe to a newsletter upon joining.

Additionally, at the end of every parade night, the announcements are read out. Activities will be announced, but are also posted on the website. Parents and Guardians are welcome and encouraged to come in for the closing parade each night, starting at 9PM.