Information for Parents

There are always questions when your child wants to join a new activity.  Below are some frequently asked questions and answers for parents.  Feel free to come and observe a night or Contact Us.

Q: Is there a cost to join Air Cadets?

A: There is no cost to joining Air Cadets.  The Cadet Program is funded by the Department of National Defense in partnership with the civilian Air Cadet League of Canada. The civilian sponsor requires local community support to meet its obligations that include accommodations, training aids and equipment and program enhancements not otherwise provided. Parents and cadets are expected to participate in and contribute to fund raising as required by the League’s local sponsoring element.

Q:  Will my child be required to pursue a career in the Canadian Forces?

A: Absolutely not! The Cadet Program is a great way to have fun, be challenged and make friends. Cadets will also find out more about Canada and develop new skills that will be with them for life, no matter what career they choose.

Q: How often do Air Cadets meet?

A: The 121 Red Arrow Air Cadet squadron meets every Tuesday night from 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM.  We also have occasional weekend trips and exercises as well as longer annual trips and summer camps available.  While we prefer regular weekly attendance we understand all of the different obligations that cadets have to balance.  The weekend excursions, annual trips and summer camps are all optional but they do offer the cadets a lot of opportunities to learn and have fun with their fellow cadets.

Q: Do the summer camps cost anything to attend?

A: The summer camps are covered as a part of joining Air Cadets.  Cadets will be transported, housed, clothed, and fed through the Cadet program.  Cadets will learn valuable skills that can be used outside of air cadets as well as earning a small stipend each week they attend camp.

Q: Is Air Cadets safe for my child?

A: Air Cadets offers age-appropriate challenges with the basics of the subjects provided first and progress in an age-appropriate manner.  Air Cadets leadership training helps develop self-esteem, self-confidence and other personal qualities.

All adult instructors and staff are thoroughly checked through a police check, interview process, and reference checks before being allowed to interact with cadets.

Q: Will my child’s academic studies suffer?

A: We understand that everyone has a balancing act between different priorities of school, family, friends and work.  In fact, studies have shown that participation in youth programs is associated with increased academic achievement, a stronger self-image and a reduction in risk-taking behaviours.  Air Cadets also offer many opportunities for cadets to participate in volunteer activities which help towards achieving their high school diploma.