TRAINING ACTIVITIES
CADETS IN ACTION
OUR PRIMARY MISSION
Our mission is to contribute to the development and preparation of youth for the transition to adulthood, enabling them to meet the challenges of modern society, through a dynamic, community-based program.
We do this by preparing them to become the leaders of tomorrow through a set of fun, challenging, well-organized and safe activities.
The Royal Canadian Army Cadets appeal to teenagers craving exciting outdoor activities where their personal limits as individuals and team members will be tested. The hardcore outdoor-oriented will love the challenge!
Army cadets develop abilities in the use of map and compass, GPS technology, orienteering, first-aid, camping and survival skills, canoeing, abseiling, trekking, mountain biking, etc. As they get more experienced, some will be selected for parachuting, white-water rafting and glacier climbing. They will also learn to become outdoor leaders.
Army Cadets get involved in ceremonial military events and citizenship activities that allow them to connect to their Canadian heritage. They develop a great sense of pride and discipline through their involvement in a hierarchical system that allows them to hone their leadership skills as they grow older and they learn to care for younger cadets.
Canada represents the best playground for teenagers interested in the outdoors. We are the organization of choice for teens and adults interested in getting out of the classroom to explore the planet the way it should be.
This is what our Cadets Do!
Our Cadets training focuses on physical activity and the outdoors. Learn more about what you can expect to do as an Army Cadet at 2806 Pointe-Claire (RMR).
Wilderness Survival (Field Training Exercises)
Army cadets participate in training in the bush in summer and winter. They learn how to build makeshift shelters and how to survive using what nature has to offer. This includes learning how to make a fire, find water, make themselves visible to rescue workers and many other useful skills.
Our Cadets participate in three Field Training Exercises (FTXs) each year. FTXs are an incredible learning experience for the cadets where cadets learn their wilderness survival skills in the bush. Cadets also have the chance to practice radio procedures, eat military field rations (Meals Ready to Eat) and basic first aid skills.
Air Rifle Marksmanship
The Cadet Marksmanship Program is a challenging and competitive sports program accessible to all cadets. It develops skills through superior training and Olympic-style competition. This is why every year, thousands of cadets participate in this fun and rewarding program.
Cadets have the opportunity to participate in a series of competitions at the local level that culminate in provincial/territorial competitions and an annual National Cadet Marksmanship Championship.
Expeditions
Expeditions develop knowledge on how to travel long distances in various environments. Army cadets also learn how to take care of their field equipment. Beginning at the Silver Star lever (third year), all cadets must take part in Expedition Cadet Training (ECT) weekend.
For some cadets who really enjoy expedition, there are two summer training opportunities dedicated to expedition training. During the basic (3-week) expedition course, the cadets go on a 5-day outing where they get the opportunity to add canoeing to the mix. The 6-week Expedition Instructors course the following year really test the cadets’ abilities as the member of a team when they head off into the woods to spend 18 days riding, hiking, canoeing, and camping.
For cadets who still want more expedition, cadets can apply to attend regional, national, and international expeditions. These excursions range from 2 weeks to a month, can be anywhere, and include such amazing experiences canoeing and kayaking, glacier-climbing, dog sledding, hiking, biking, and camping.
Biathlon
Cadet biathlon develops power, endurance, strength, skill, precision and calm under pressure for cadets. The sport is a combination of cross-country skiing and marksmanship. But it is not that simple. After skiing fast and hard, biathletes must calm themselves to take accurate and controlled shots at targets 50 meters away. In a single race cadet competitors can ski up to 10 kilometers and shoot 20 targets. Cadets have the opportunity to compete in local, regional and national championships.
Canadian Armed Forces Familiarization
Our cadets learn about Canada's military history and the customs of the Canadian Army and our affiliated unit, the Royal Montreal Regiment. Cadets learn about the conflicts of the past and present and the role that the Canadian Forces has played in international and domestic affairs. The goal is to provide our cadets with a better understanding of Canada's military and the role it plays on behalf of the Government of Canada and the Canadian people.
Physical Fitness
Our cadets participate in many sports and physical fitness opportunities. Our cadets take a particular pride in their fitness level and work hard to become stronger, fitter and healthier individuals. Our cadets are required to complete three fitness assessments per training year that test cadets in terms of their strength, cardiovascular endurance and flexibility. Our cadets also routinely participate in basketball, hockey, soccer, hiking and other sports as part of their normal weekly training.
Army Cadets have the opportunity to participate in physically demanding summer courses including Basic Parachutist, and Leadership and Challenge.
Citizenship and Community Service
Our cadets learn about the culture and current affairs within Canadian society. Cadets learn about our country's national symbols, the mechanics of Canadian governmental affairs, the Canadian Justice System and current issues facing our society such as cybercrime.
Our cadets also participate in events through Montreal in support of local government and community service organizations. Cadets are required to participate in at least 4 hours of community service each year. Our cadets have helped at soccer events, raised money for the Military Families Fund and helped collect non-perishable food for the West Island Mission's Food Bank.