How does someone join 700 Squadron Air Cadets?
What will it cost?
There is no fee for our regular training program and required activities. All Cadets will be asked to join in fund-raising or other support activities such as Tag Days, special parades, etc.
Subsidized charges for certain optional activities (notably overnight March Break trips), may occur.
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.
What are the requirements of membership?
All potential cadets must be of good character, interested in the program and prepared to attend training and parades regularly. You must be Canadian Citizen or landed immigrant and in good health. Permission of your parent or guardian is also required. 700 Squadron's primary service area is for recruits living in North and Central Etobicoke and Weston. Recruits from outside these areas are accepted on a space-available basis only.
How often do Air Cadets train?
You will parade with your Air Cadet squadron every Friday night. Other training nights may also be scheduled based on what supplemental activities the Cadet signs up for. Air Cadets also participate in occasional day trips and overnight weekend training.
Are there any extra curricular activities?
700 Squadron has a Brass & Reed Band, a Drill Team, Range Team, Effective Speaking, Debating Team & Orienteering Team. These teams may schedule their own separate regular training times. They also participate in occasional weekend practices and competitions.
How often do Air Cadets fly?
Generally our squadron goes gliding twice a year - autumn and spring.
If I join cadets, will I be joining the Canadian Forces?
Not at all. Cadets is a civilian youth organization with ties to the Canadian military, but it is not part of the Canadian military.
Must I buy my own uniform?
No, complete uniforms are loaned to cadets by the Canadian Forces. You are, of course, required to keep the uniform looking clean and neat. Uniforms must be returned when you retire from the program.
Do Air Cadets receive pay?
No. All cadets, however, receive valuable educational benefits, trips to camp, free flying courses and other rewards at no cost.
Who instructs Air Cadets?
Junior Air Cadets are instructed by Senior Air Cadets who are supervised by officers of the Cadet Instructors Cadre - a component of the Canadian Forces who are specially trained to instruct and supervise youth. Also, Civilian volunteers such as ex-Servicemen, school teachers, former Air Cadets and other persons willing to devote time to this activity are also active in the Air Cadet program.
What about pilot training?
Air Cadets who apply themselves in the program and who can pass the required medical and written examinations can qualify for aircraft and glider pilot scholarship courses conducted at special camps, flying clubs and schools across Canada.
