The training program is run during the regular school year.
The core training is provided by the squadron’s staff (the uniformed members trained by the military plus a few non uniformed specialists).
Each cadet goes through several levels of training (one level per year), with each level being a prerequisite for advancement to the next. Upon completion of each level, cadets become eligible for promotion to the next rank (in many cases, there is also a minimum time “in rank” before being promoted). All cadets start at level 1 and progress from there. For older cadets joining the program, there is an accelerated program that allows them to complete two levels in one training year (certain conditions apply).
This training includes both technical details related to aviation as well as development of a wide variety of skills related to health, well being, teamwork, camaraderie, leadership, and responsibility. As cadets advance in their training, they have the opportunity to take on leadership roles with increasing levels of responsibility. They also have the opportunity to train and develop cadets at lower levels.
Once all of the core training is completed, senior cadets transition from being students to assisting with the training of the junior cadets and eventually instructing junior cadets. As the senior cadets “give back to the program”, they ensure that future generations of cadets are able to obtain the same benefits that they did.
The vast majority of the core training is on the normal training night (Wednesdays), however, there are occasional core activities on weekends which are required to be able to complete the level such as:
- Fly Days (familiarization flights in a small powered aircraft)
- Gliding Days (familiarization flights in a glider)
- Level 1 Day
- Level 2 Day
- Bush Weekends
Several of these activities take place more than once per training year and attendance at a least one of those sessions (except for level specific events) is required to complete the training year.
Bush weekends cover off a number of teaching points that are not covered at any other time of the year and cadet participation in both events is expected.