Explore common inquiries about our squadron and the Air Cadet program.
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What is the mission of the 878 Banff/Canmore Squadron?
Our mission is to develop leadership, citizenship, and physical fitness in youth through aviation-focused activities and training.
Who can join the Air Cadets?
Youth aged 12 to 18 who are interested in aviation and leadership opportunities can join the Air Cadets. Cadets need not be Canadian Citizens, but simply be legally able to live in Canada. Many new Canadians receive their citizenship as a cadet.
What activities do cadets participate in?
Cadets engage in flying, gliding, survival training, first-aid, leadership, instructional techniques, public speaking, physical fitness, marksmanship, and community service activities.
Is there a cost to join the Air Cadets?
There is no cost to join the Air Cadets. The program is funded by the Department of National Defense and the Air Cadet League of Canada.
In fact, there are numerous bursaries and grants available to cadets through the Air Cadet League and other sponsors and cadets can get paid to go to summer camp!
How often do cadets meet?
Cadets typically meet once a week, on Wednesday evenings for regular training sessions and participate in additional activities on weekends.
What is the Air Cadet League of Canada?
The Air Cadet League of Canada is a civilian non-profit organization that partners with the Department of National Defense to support the Air Cadet program.
Where do the cadets parade?
Cadets parade at Laurence Grassi Middle School in Canmore which is located beside our headquarters building at 602-7th Avenue, Canmore, Alberta. Transportation to Canmore, from Banff, is provided by the squadron for regular schedule training and events.
Regular training nights are on Wednesday evening.
Timings are as follow:
18h50 Arrival
18h35 Parade
19h10 1st block (30 min)
19h40 Break (5 minutes)
19h45 2nd block (30 minutes)
20h15 Break (15 minutes)
20h30 3rd block (30 minutes)
21h15 Dismiss
How many cadets are there in Canada?
Currently there are approximately 52,000 cadets across Canada
What are the safety standards in the Cadet Program?
The safety and well-being of all cadets and other personnel in the Cadet Program is our top priority.
The Cadet Program offers many challenging activities to the Army, Sea and Air Cadets. All of these activities have some element of danger, and this risk is increased because of the young age of cadets. Cadet leadership and participants take every measure to reduce and eliminate dangerous situations. We place a high level of importance on making sure that all members of the Canadian Cadet Organizations (CCO) follow the General Safety Program.
Supervision
Commanding Officers are responsible for ensuring that all Corps or Squadron activities are appropriately supervised. All Reserve Force members other than members of the Cadet Instructors Cadre must successfully complete the screening process before becoming a Cadet Instructor.
Phase Training / Star Program / Proficiency Level Program
Each authorized cadet activity that is part of the Mandatory Training Program must have at least 1 paid Cadet Instructor or a paid Civilian Instructor. These instructors are responsible for the cadets and physically participate in the activity. This includes Phase Training for Sea Cadets, Star Program for Army Cadets, or Proficiency Level Program for Air Cadets.
Optional activities
All approved activities must be under the responsibility and supervision of a Cadet Instructor or paid Civilian Instructor. The Cadet Instructor can either be on paid service or be providing support without pay during the optional activity.
Day activities
For every 20 cadets there must be at least 1 adult supervisor of each gender, for mixed gender activities. This also includes day activities where no overnight accommodation is required such as a tour or visit. If required, a senior cadet of the appropriate gender may assist in supervisory duties for this type of activity.
Overnight activities
There must be at least 1 adult supervisor of each gender, for all mixed gender activities. The minimum ratio for overnight activities is 1 adult supervisor for 15 cadets. There are separate sleeping accommodations for male and female cadets and staff.
The following are the safety standards for billets:
- In Canada, cadets will only be billeted in private residences where all adult residents have successfully completed the appropriate League screening process
- Cadets participating in international exchanges will only be billeted in private residences where all adult residents have been screened to the maximum extent allowed under the laws of the host country
- Cadets billeted in private residences will be provided with contact phone numbers where the officer in charge of the activity can be contacted at all times
What are the benefits of joining the Air Cadets?
Cadets gain valuable skills in leadership, teamwork, and aviation, and have opportunities for scholarships and international exchanges.
Can cadets earn pilot licenses?
Yes, cadets have the opportunity to earn their glider and private pilot licenses through the program.
How does the program support personal development?
The program emphasizes discipline, responsibility, and self-confidence, preparing cadets for future success in various fields.
Is the Cadet Program new? How come I haven't heard of it before?
No, the Cadet Program is not new. In fact, the Cadet Program is one of Canada’s oldest youth programs. The origins of the program can be traced back to 1862.
- In 1879 the Army Cadets was formed
- In 1895 the Sea Cadets was formed
- In 1941 the Air Cadets was formed
Are cadets expected to join the Canadian Armed Forces?
As a cadet you are not a member of the Canadian Armed Forces, and you are not expected to join the military. While you are introduced to Sea, Army or Air activities of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and certain traditions, you are also introduced to many other career options outside of the CAF.
Why should I join Cadets?
The Cadet Program offers challenging experiences, friendships and adventure! It’s an opportunity to expand your own horizons, contribute to your community and make friends for life. Many former cadets credit their participation in the program for giving them a head-start in their career.
Did you know that Canadian astronauts Chris Hadfield, Marc Garneau and Jeremy Hansen are all former cadets? Many famous community leaders, athletes and celebrities are former cadets as well.
About 878 Banff/Canmore Squadron
Programs and Activities
Aviation Training
Cadets receive hands-on experience with aviation principles, including flight simulations and ground school sessions.
Leadership Development
Our leadership programs focus on building confidence, teamwork, and effective communication skills among cadets.
Outdoor Adventures
Cadets participate in exciting outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and survival training to build resilience and self-reliance.
Community Service
Engage in meaningful community projects that foster civic responsibility and community involvement.