How does someone join Cadets?
631 Squadron accepts new cadets each year between September and January. Please contact us by email at 631air@cadets.gc.ca, call 416-266-4891 or visit us in person on Wednesdays from 6:30-9:00pm.
How old must I be to join the Air Cadets?
You are eligible to join a squadron if you have reached your 12th birthday but not your 19th. Cadets who are older than 12 may be eligible to be accelerated through the training program.
What are the requirements of membership?
All potential cadets must be of good character, interested in the program and prepared to attend parades regularly. You must be Canadian Citizen or landed immigrant and in good health. Permission of your parent or guardian is also required.
How often do Air Cadets train?
You will parade with your Air Cadet squadron every week. Air Cadets also participate in occasional day trips and overnight weekend training.
Are there any extra curricular activities?
In addition to regular training, 631 Squadron offers a Drill Team, Military Band, Sports Team, Flying Scholarship Program, and Gliding. We also participate in weekend activities, community events and competitions.
How often do Air Cadets get to fly?
Generally our squadron goes gliding twice a year – autumn and spring. Cadets are also given the opportunity to participate in familiarization flights while attending summer training, and cadets may work toward obtaining their glider or power pilot licenses.
If I join cadets, will I be joining the Canadian Forces?
No. The Cadet program is a civilian youth organization with ties to the Canadian Forces, but Cadets have no obligation to pursue a career in the military.
Will I have to pay dues?
All cadets are required to pay $125 annually. This is a fee that the Ontario Provincial Committee (OPC) of the Air Cadet League of Canada – the regulatory body for Air Cadet Squadrons in Ontario – levies for every registered cadet. This fee is collected annually for all cadets on the first night back after summer break.
In addition, cadets must participate in squadron fundraising activities such as Tag Days in the spring and fall, special parades, and more. Some optional activities (i.e., year-ends trips) will cost the cadet a subsidized nominal fee. Those that do not participate in fundraising will be required to pay the unsubsidized full cost of the activities if they are selected to participate.
What does the Air Cadet League do with the Fee?
The Air Cadet programme is unique about the three branches of the Cadet movement, because it offers familiarization flights (ie Gliding) to all cadets on an annual basis, in addition to all other training. The $125 Assessment Fee paid by each cadet goes to funding this venture, including fuel, maintenance and operation of aircraft.
Must I buy my own uniform?
No. Complete uniforms are loaned to cadets by the Canadian Forces. You are, of course, expected to keep the uniform looking clean and neat.
Do Air Cadets receive pay?
Generally, cadets do not receive pay, however, cadets will receive a weekly training bonus when attending summer training. Cadets who pursue Staff Cadet opportunities receive pay based on rank.
Who instructs Air Cadets?
Air Cadets are instructed by officers of the Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC) – a component of the Canadian Forces who are specially trained to instruct and supervise youth – alongside senior Cadets who have completed the Proficiency Level Program. Also, Civilian Volunteers such as ex-Service members, school teachers, former Cadets and others willing to contribute their time are active in the Air Cadet program.
What about pilot training?
Air Cadets who can pass the required medical and written examinations can qualify for aircraft and glider pilot scholarship courses conducted at flying clubs, schools and special camps across Canada.
Can Air Cadets obtain summer employment?
Yes. For senior Air Cadets who are properly qualified, the summer camps and special courses offer worthwhile summer employment opportunities – a chance to “earn while you learn”.