Our program is delivered through a combination of structured instruction, outdoor experiential learning, and practical on-the-job leadership training. The mantra of our organization is “Cadets Leading Cadets”.
As cadets at 2381 progress through the program, they move into leadership roles where they have an opportunity to guide, mentor, and act as role models for junior members.
The Army Cadet program is divided into five levels of training which corresponds to a cadet’s age. These levels are Green Star, Red Star, Silver Star, Gold Star, and Master Cadet. These training programs are nationally standardized and increase in technical complexity as cadets progress through their training.
Within each star level, the training content is divided into several additional subjects which offer unique and meaningful learning opportunities.
Core Training
Leadership
Our cadets learn how to find the leader within them. Leadership training is both structured and done “on the job”. Cadets learn principles and theories of leadership through lessons and seminars, while also applying these ideas through peer, team, and organizational leadership opportunities.
Citizenship
Our members not only learn to become better leaders, but to be better Canadian citizens. Cadets learn about Canadian history, military traditions, and ways to get involved in the community. 2381 actively makes the City of Richmond a better place through participation in fundraisers, annual parades, food drives, and community cleanups.
Physical Fitness
Strong bodies make strong minds; strong minds make strong leaders. We have a comprehensive physical training program that goes beyond running laps and doing pushups. We introduce our cadets to unique sports in partnership with the many excellent organizations in our local community.
Canadian Armed Forces Familiarization
Cadets are introduced to the function and activities of the Canadian Armed Forces through guest speakers, demonstrations, and participation on CAF activities. Through these activities, cadets develop greater insight into how the military fits into the community, as well as their contributions at home and abroad.
Technical Training
Outdoor Survival and Navigation
We take lessons learned in the classroom and put them into practice in live environments. Cadets learn how to survive in the wilderness, erect tents and structures, navigate using maps, compasses, and GPS. Cadets also learn the nuances of outdoor leadership and how to work through the unique challenges of this environment.
Expedition
Expedition is the most exciting aspect of our training program. Cadets challenge themselves through developing skills in canoeing, climbing, mountain biking, and more. Select candidates can join expeditions to locations such as Haida Gwaii, Argentina, and even Mt Everest.
Marksmanship
Marksmanship is the sport of firing a rifle at a stationary target. Marksmanship at our local level is conducted using an air rifle in line with the Olympic sport. Cadets who are highly proficient and competitive in the sport can be selected to attend marksmanship-specific summer courses in Ontario with the potential to represent Canada at international competitions.
Military Drill
Ceremonial military drill forms the backbone of basic training. It teaches cadets coordination, situational awareness, and responsiveness to direction. Cadets who develop an interest in military drill can specialize in this field to learn ceremonial drill with weapons and flags, as well as develop towards being a drill instructor.
Summer Training
Cadets have the opportunity to take summer courses in a variety of specialized areas, such as Expedition, Music, Marksmanship, and Drill. Courses are two to six weeks long depending on the course and take place at one of many Summer Training Centres located across Canada. All summer training is not only free, but cadets get paid a weekly allowance for attending!
Leadership and Challenge
The Leadership and Challenge Course is hosted at the Rocky Mountain National Cadet Training Centre located in Banff, AB. Army Cadets from across the country participate in six weeks straight of mountain-biking, white water kayaking, glacier climbing, horseback riding, and more exciting activities in the “ultimate” Army Cadet experience!
International Exchange
Cadets who have completed Gold Star and are assessed as high performers can be selected for an International Exchange to the United Kingdom to train alongside the British Army Cadet Force. Exchanges are completely sponsored by the Army Cadet program, however there are very limited spots and selection is competitive. Cadets often highlight international exchange as an experience of a lifetime.
CAF Basic Parachutist Qualification
Also known as “Para”, this course is held in Ontario every summer. Cadets earn a military qualification that they retain if they join the military. The course is mentally and physically demanding and trains cadets to parachute out of a plane at low altitude. The course is highly sought after and is a goal for many cadets who have a passion for physical fitness.
2381 Army Cadets 