Training
About our Training
Royal Canadian Air Cadets follow a nationally directed training program designed to foster citizenship, leadership, physical fitness, and a strong interest in aviation and the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Training takes place at the squadron level through weekly sessions and hands-on activities. This is further enhanced by regionally coordinated events and summer training courses offered at Cadet Training Centres across Canada—giving cadets valuable opportunities to grow, explore, and lead.
Training Overview
Mandatory Training
All cadets participate in weekly training nights on Tuesdays and several weekend exercises throughout the year. In addition to local activities, cadets may also take part in regionally organized training events that enhance the core program.
The mandatory training program—officially called the Proficiency Level Program—is the foundation of cadet development. It consists of approximately 30 evening training sessions held at the squadron and is supported by hands-on weekend exercises. The program is divided into five proficiency levels, each typically corresponding to a cadet’s year in the program. These levels are designed to build progressively in leadership, aviation, fitness, and citizenship skills.
Optional Training
Outside of the core curriculum, cadets can join a variety of exciting extracurricular teams and activities, including:
Band
Drill Team
Marksmanship
Aircrew Survival (formerly Survivair)
Biathlon
Ground School
These optional programs offer cadets additional opportunities to explore their interests, build new skills, and represent the squadron in competitions and events.
Proficiency Levels and Leadership Development
Each proficiency level in the Air Cadet training program provides cadets with progressive instruction in areas such as:
Citizenship and community service
Leadership and instructional techniques
Physical fitness and marksmanship
Cadet knowledge, drill, and ceremonial
Radio communication
Aviation, aerospace, and aerodrome operations
Aircraft maintenance
Survival training
As cadets advance to Levels 3 and 4, they begin learning instructional techniques, preparing them to become instructors within the squadron.
By the time cadets reach the senior levels, they serve as the primary instructors for many of the lessons taught. Squadron adult staff support this model by providing coaching and mentorship, helping cadets develop strong instructional and leadership skills.