Weekly Training Program
The cadet training program has 5 levels or phases of training. Usually one phase is covered per calendar year. Accelerated training is available for older youth who join the cadet program.
Cadets receive promotions as they move through the 5 levels (or phases) of training. As cadets move through the phases, they receive increasing levels of leadership and instructional techniques training. This prepares the cadets to be ready to accept increasing levels of teaching and supervisory responsibility when they become petty officers. Cadets learn to lead cadets.
Cadet Leaders
On a weekly basis, sea cadets receive instruction in a wide variety of naval related subjects such as:
- seamanship/rope work;
- sailing;
- small craft operations;
- ship’s operations;
- Canadian Navy and civilian maritime community familiarization;
- general cadet knowledge;
- drill and ceremonial;
- leadership;
- instructional techniques;
- community service;
- cultural education/travel;
- citizenship;
- personal fitness and healthy living;
- recreational sports;
- air rifle marksmanship;
- orienteering;
- biathlon;
- music – military band; and
- Positive Social Relations for Youth Training
Astronaut Chris Hadfield
This combination of training along with instructional and leadership responsibilities gives teens a great deal of self-confidence and life skills to help them succeed as they become young adults. Some notable Canadian who had their start in cadets include:
Myriam Bédard – Olympic Gold Medallist in Biathlon
Ernie Boychuck – Associate Chief Justice of Saskatchewan
Pat Binns – former Premier of Prince Edward Island and Ambassador to Ireland
Jim Carrey – actor and comedian
Joe Clark – former Prime Minister of Canada
Marc Garneau – astronaut
Chris Hadfield – astronaut
Rick Hillier – retired General and Chief of Defence Staff
The Honourable John McCallum – Member of Parliament and former Minister of National Defense
Rick Mercer – Actor and comedian
Brian Tobin – Former premier of Newfoundland & Labrador