(Para 8 of CATO 11-03, Cadet Program Mandate)
The aim of the Cadet Program is to develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and leadership, promote physical fitness and stimulate the interest of youth in the sea, land and air activities of the Canadian Forces. The three aspects of the stated aim are amplified below to provide guidance and clarification as to the development of these attributes within Cadets.
Cadets develop an understanding of and appreciation for community membership and involvement within cadet, local, regional, provincial, national and global communities. Inherent in this membership is an acceptance of, and respect for, multiculturalism within Canada and the world. Through their active involvement, cadets will have a positive impact on local communities, contributing to community strength and vibrancy.
In this peer-led program, cadets develop interpersonal skills and assume responsibility as effective team members, leaders and dynamic coaches that conduct themselves in an ethical and socially responsible way.
The Cadet Program aims to promote physical well-being. Cadets develop an understanding of the benefits of fitness and a healthy lifestyle. This understanding combined with on-going participation in fitness activities, aids in the development of positive attitudes and behaviours that build resiliency within cadets and enable them to meet challenges.
By exposing youth to the sea, land and air activities of the Canadian Forces they develop elemental skills through introduction to, and interaction with, their respective CF communities. To maximize the elemental experience, the Cadet Program educates and promotes liaison with civilian maritime, adventure and aviation communities. These combined experiences and interactions are essential to the unique identity of the Sea, Army and Air Cadet Organizations, distinguishing each from the other, and the Cadet Program as a whole from other youth development programs.
The Royal Canadian Air Cadets is one of three elements in the Canadian Cadet Movement, a national youth program for ages 12-18.
These aims are accomplished through weekly training during the school year, summer training programs and extracurricular activities.
The Canadian Armed Forces provides funding and training for the Canadian Cadet Movement in cooperation with the civilian agency, the Air Cadet League of Canada. Cadets are not members of the Canadian Armed Forces and there is no requirement for military service.