Summer Training Joining Instructions

Important Information for Cadet Training Centers (CTC)/Enhanced Training Session (ETS) Participants

Measles is a highly contagious virus. There are currently outbreaks of this disease in several parts of Canada – significantly more than in recent years. It usually causes fever, cough, rash, and red eyes – but in some cases, it can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, brain infection and swelling, and even death.

To help keep everyone safe this summer, all Course Cadets, JCR, Staff Cadets, and adult staff attending CTCs or JCR ETS are strongly encouraged to be up to date with their measles vaccinations and to bring a copy of proof with them.

If a measles exposure were to occur at a CTC or ETS, having proof of vaccination will be necessary to allow you to continue to participate in the summer program, and will reduce the risk of you needing to be isolated on-site or potentially be returned home to isolate – if it is deemed safe by public health.

Before travelling to CTC or a JCR ETS this summer please ensure you have downloaded and read the measles Letter to CTC/ETS Participants. This letter explains why vaccination matters, what to expect if there is an outbreak, and why bringing a copy of your vaccine record (printed or on your phone) is especially important this year.

Introduction

The purpose of these Joining Instructions is to provide all cadets who are attending summer training with the foundation needed to prepare for the training opportunity. Read each part in detail, including the Cadet Training Centre (CTC) page, with your parent(s)/guardian(s) to ensure that you understand what is expected during your time away.

Reading the Joining Instructions

These Joining Instructions have been written in a way that should be easy to navigate by bringing the most essential information to you first. For example, what you should bring, what you should expect, etc. This information is common for all CTCs across Canada.

Each CTC has a specific web page. If you are not sure which CTC you are going to, make sure to ask your Corps/Squadron staff.

What you will need to review

1. A signed Offer of Participation Form from Fortress
2. Summer Training Joining Instructions (this web page)
3. Common Forms
4. Cadet Training Centre (CTC) page

Public Health and Safety Measures

Read about our current Health and Safety measures related to COVID-19 and other communicable illnesses.

Preparing for Summer Training

Summer Training Briefing

Your local Corps/Squadron may provide you with a summer training briefing before you leave. You are encouraged to participate and ask questions to clarify course information with your staff. Make sure you bring your parent(s)/guardian(s) with you.

Each cadet will receive an Offer of Participation Form from their Corps/Squadron. Cadets shall present this form to the staff upon arrival at CTC. The following is an example of page four of an Offer of Participation Form:

Cadet Training Review

The Cadet Training Review is a project led by the CJCR Group to explore how cadet training can be improved to better support today’s youth. It focuses on helping cadets grow, learn, and succeed by gathering feedback from cadets, staff, and other experts. The review is looking at new ideas and approaches to make training even more engaging and meaningful. Cadets and staff are encouraged to share their experiences and ideas to help shape the future of the Cadet Program.

To participate, course cadets and staff cadets will be asked to complete two short surveys: a pre-course survey, before their training course begins and a post-course survey during the final days of their course. Each part will take less than five minutes to complete. Both the pre- and the post- survey can be completed at home, but opportunities to complete the survey will also be provided at the CTC, during the in-clearance and out-clearance processes. Additionally, posters with a QR code will be displayed throughout each CTC.

More information can be found on the Cadet Training Review (You are now leaving Canada.ca. Link accessible only on the Cadet365 SharePoint) SharePoint page. If you have any questions about the Cadet Training Review, or the surveys, please contact the Cadet Training Review Team at ctr-rec@cadets.gc.ca.

Code of Conduct

• The Cadet and Junior Canadian Rangers Group (CJCR Gp) is committed to providing a safe, welcoming and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and is able to achieve their maximum potential. Treating each other with respect and fairness and acting and making decisions in the best interest of others are integral to maintaining a positive environment, free from all forms of discrimination, abuse, inappropriate conduct, and damaging behaviour.
• To help achieve this all cadets and adult staff will engage in a briefing and discussion on expected behaviours and will sign a Code of Conduct, shortly after their arrival at the CTC.
• The Cadet Code of Conduct, Annex A to CJCR Gp Order 5019-6, Codes of Conduct has recently been updated (see below). Cadets are encouraged to review this with their parents/guardians prior to departure for the CTC.

Packing for your course

The following guide will assist the cadet in packing for their course. Please refer to the Common Forms – Packing Checklist and follow this checklist so that you do not forget anything and avoid packing items that you do not need. The indicated quantity is the minimum amount you will need. Here are some key points:

• Cadets are highly encouraged to print their names on the clothing tags in permanent marker to make it easier for identification in the event of a loss.
• All uniform items must fit properly and be in good condition.
• All necessary exchanges or replacements must be done at your Corps/Squadron before leaving for your course.
• Course-specific items will be identified in the CTC page (if required).

Electronics and valuables

Record the information of any personal electronic devices or other valuables on the Common Form – Personal Valuable Property Log provided with this package. You are responsible for these items if you chose to bring them with you.

Training locations have rules governing the use of cell phones, smart devices, and any devices with video/audio recording capacity. The expectation is that you follow these rules or risk losing the privilege of using them during personal time.

You may take photos during your course. We encourage you to share your memories with families, friends, and your fellow cadets at home. However, this is subject to the approval of your training staff.

Baggage

All cadet baggage is subject to inspection upon arrival at the training location. This is to ensure that you have everything you need to be successful on your course. More information on the conduct of inspections is in CATO 12-50, Searches and Inspections of Cadets.

Dress

The standards of personal dress, appearance and grooming shall reflect credit on the individual and the Cadet Program. Cadets are expected to adhere to the Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers Group (CJCR Gp) Dress Instructions. The CJCR Gp Dress Instructions are not intended to be overly restrictive, but to ensure the deportment and appearance of all cadets, on all occasions reflect credit on the Cadet Program and the individual.

Required uniforms:

Cadets are expected to have the following uniforms:

• Travel in Service Dress - C3C (Jacket with belt is optional)
  • Sea Cadets
  • Army Cadets
  • Air Cadets
• Training Dress - C5

Field Training Uniform (FTU), Sea Training Uniform (STU) and civilian clothing are not authorized for traveling to or from summer training.

There will be no occasion requiring Ceremonial Orders of Dress during the summer training period. To prevent the loss of uniform items the following items of kit are not to be brought to the training location:

• Medals;
• Regimental ^{Footnote 1} or ceremonial regalia (Cartridge belts, regimental belt buckle, patrol dress, lanyards, chains, webbing, etc.);
• Highland Dress^{Footnote 2};
• Ceremonial Weapons (Swords/cutlasses, dirks, Sgian Dubhs, bayonets, etc.); or
• Pace sticks, drill canes or swagger sticks.

Civilian clothing

When packing your civilian clothing, your attire must be neat, tidy, and appropriately styled with no markings that could be deemed to be offensive or otherwise reflect discredit on the Canadian Cadet Organizations (CCO). Unnecessary clothing or items are discouraged, as individual personal storage areas are limited at the training location. Course cadets at a CTC may only be permitted to wear civilian clothing when signed out on a weekend pass.

Medical

The following will provide information related to medical requirements and expectations.

Insurance

CJCR Gp provides Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance coverage for cadets. This Insurance is designed to be complementary coverage that, in most cases, picks up where other coverage may leave off, including provincial or territorial health coverage and private insurance coverage. Information on AD&D Insurance benefits and the claim process can be accessed through CJCR Gp O 5530-2, Insurance.

Medication

Cadets who take prescription medication, shall bring the medication in their original packaging and a copy of the prescription to the training location. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are taking medication as prescribed.

Any over-the-counter medication, such as allergy medication or pain relief, must also remain in its original packaging. All medication will be retained and controlled by course staff but made available to you when needed.

Parent(s)/Guardian(s) shall review and complete the cadet's Medication Record Form and ensure that the cadet presents the required documentation during intake in accordance with CATO 16-04, Procedures for Medication Management at a CSTC.

Cadets must arrive with their medication properly packaged, and have sufficient amounts for duration of the training dates plus 5 days. You may not have the ability to refill your prescriptions while on course.

Anaphylaxis protocol

Anaphylaxis is defined as a serious allergic reaction that can be rapid in onset and may cause death. It affects about 2% of the Canadian population, with the most common allergens being food and insect stings. Medical attention is needed right away, as this type of reaction can be life-threatening.

Cadets with serious allergies to insect stings or food must bring two (2) prescribed Anakit/Epipen/Allerject with them to the training location.

Cadets must hand-carry a copy of their Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan completed during their annual medical validation to the training location and always keep a copy on their person (with their emergency medication).

Medic-Alert bracelets / devices

It is highly recommended that all cadets with known medical conditions requiring immediate identification wear their Medical Alert devices (bracelets, necklaces, etc.) at all times.

Communications

A complete list of contact information is contained in the applicable CTC Page. This includes telephone numbers, email addresses, social media accounts, and a mailing address in case someone wants to send you a letter or care package.

Transportation

In most cases, we have arranged for you to get to/from the training location. Your method of transportation may be via bus, train, or aircraft. If you live close to the training location, you may be required to have your parent or guardian drop you off and pick you up. No cadet or staff cadet is authorized to drive their own vehicle and park at the training location.

Closer to your travel date, you will be provided with a travel itinerary from your Corps/Squadron. The travel itinerary will include a date, time, and location for your point of departure/arrival. Your travel itinerary will provide you with the location of a departure/arrival point close to you, affording you an opportunity for you to say farewell to your family and friends.

Requirements for transportation

Personal baggage must be clearly marked on its exterior, with a duplicate tag placed inside the container (duffle bag, suitcase, kit bag). Baggage restrictions may apply to cadets while travelling which is normally max weight of 23 Kg (50 lbs). Please consult your travel itinerary and the airline, train, or bus company. Any excess of the normal baggage entitlement will not be covered, and some airlines may not accept the excess baggage.

A cadet’s registered name at their Corps/Squadron must match the identification being carried. Commercial travel is booked using the cadet’s name and date of birth as it is registered at their Corps/Squadron in Fortress. Any discrepancies, such as short forms, preferred names, nicknames, or any other variation from their full legal name may result in being denied boarding.

When travelling by air

You should have one piece of photo identification issued by a Canadian federal, provincial or territorial government with your full name and date of birth or two pieces of identification (non photo) issued by a Canadian federal, provincial or territorial government. For more details regarding ID requirements see the Documents Needed for Travel.

Going home with family or friends

Once you graduate from your course or complete your activity, you must stay for a brief time to complete any last-minute end-of-course logistics. If you wish to go home with family or friends, training staff must be informed well in advance so they can make appropriate arrangements.

Training staff will not release a cadet to someone not authorized by a parent or legal guardian to take them from the training location.

Transportation home

Transportation back home is provided at no expense to you, or your family. Once we have planned your return travel details, we will inform your Corps/Squadron of the date, time, and arrival location for your pick-up. Please remember that delays may happen sometimes, but we will do our best to provide accurate timings.

Return to Unit (RTU)

Circumstances may arise during the training period where you may be removed from the training. This may be due to personal reasons (parental request, compassionate, medical), performance (training deficiencies), or misconduct. Additional information may be found in CATO 13-26, ​Return to Unit – Cadets.

In the event a decision is made to return a cadet to their unit:

• the parent(s)/guardian(s) is contacted.
• the unit Commanding Officer is contacted.
• when the parent(s)/guardian(s) or the cadet submit a request for an RTU. Parent(s)/Guardian(s) may be held liable for transportation costs.

Meals

Food will be provided to you for the duration of your course. Meals are typically provided in a cafeteria-style setting. This may change depending on your course, training location, or building availability.

Considerations for dietary restrictions may not be possible at each training location. Allergies, food sensitivities and chemical sensitivities may require an updated Detailed Health Questionnaire, and/or a Participation by a Cadet with a Food Sensitivity form to be reviewed by Regional Medical Staff. Each form is generated by your Corps/Squadron staff from Fortress. Other accommodations for religious reasons or dietary preferences may be offered by varied menu options. Those who are uncertain as to whether an accommodation can be made should seek clarification with the training location through their Corps/Squadron Commanding Officer (CO). Accommodations, where available, should be identified prior to the cadet’s arrival for training.

Housing

Depending on your activity or course and the training location, you may be housed in either soft-walled structures, or dormitory-style buildings. You may share a room with one to ten people in either a single or bunk-style bed. You will be provided with an area to store your personal items and clothing which could either be a closet, barrack box, or a locker.

Details regarding lodgings, washrooms, and changing facilities will be provided within the CTC page.

Attending training

The following will provide an overview of what to expect while attending the course. Learn more about Cadet Training Centre (CTC) Summer Courses. Additional information can be discussed with the staff and senior cadets of your Corps/Squadron.

Time-off

Only persons identified in the Time-Off Authorization and Consent Form may pick you up and take you off base during off-training hours. All details regarding time off can be found in the applicable CTC page.

Financial information

You will receive a Cadet Training Allowance that will be given to you via a direct deposit to a bank account. Cadets must have a bank account in their own name to receive this training allowance.

Upon arrival to the CTC, you must hand in:

• The Direct Deposit Authorization Form and attached Banking Information Sheet or Void cheque from your financial institution.

Course cadets attending TDLC will not be paid a cadet training allowance as they will be attending virtually from their personal locations (home, cottage, etc).

Learn more about CJCR Gp Order 5560-7, Cadet Training Allowance.

Cadet Training Centre (CTC) common services

Spiritual services

Each CTC has spiritual and religious services available to cadets. If you wish to practice your spiritual obligations, please let your staff know.

Health services

Health services for cadets are covered by their Provincial/Territorial Health Insurance Plan. All health-related expenses are covered by the Department of National Defence while attending in-house summer training courses.

Each CTC has medical staff available to cadets. Specific medical instructions and hours of operation will be provided by each CTC page.

Graduation and ceremonies

If you have family or friends who wish to see you graduate from your course or participate in special ceremonies, they are encouraged to do so. See the applicable CTC page for graduation dates, ceremonies, etc.

If you have family and/or friends who plan to attend these events, it is preferred that you advise training staff in advance so they can plan accordingly.

Common forms for CTC

The following forms must be completed and brought with you to the CTC.

• Packing Checklist. This document provides a list of common items required by each cadet attending summer training courses. The checklist provides a minimum guideline for packing personal and issued items.

All of the forms below will take you outside Canada.ca. Links are accessible only on the Cadet365 SharePoint.

• Personal Value Property Log. This form records all valuable property belonging to the cadet and may be used to identify lost or recovered property. All valuables should remain at home for the course.
• Medication record. This form records all prescription and non-prescription medication belonging to the cadet. Due to the sensitive nature of its contents, please place the completed document in a sealed envelope, and return it with the other required forms.
• Cadet Transportation Form. This form determines whether a cadet requires transportation following course graduation. It’s been identified that cadets may elect to return home with family or authorized friends following graduation parade.
• Time-Off Authorization and Consent Form. Link accessible only on the Cadet365 SharePoint). This form allows people identified on the form to pick up course cadets for time-off during off-hours. Photo identification is required at pick-up.
• Direct Deposit Authorization Form. This form is required for the direct deposit of your cadet training allowance into your bank account. Information you will need to have: Bank Name and Branch Number, Account Type (Checking or Savings), Account Number, Full name of account owner if it is not the CTC cadet’s account. A void check or form from your bank must be attached.

Please note that these common forms may not be the only ones required for your course. Consult your CTC page for more information.

Cadet Training Centre (CTC) locations

Each CTC has a specific page that contains additional information specific to that location and the courses they offer. Learn more about the CTC you are attending:

• Argonaut CTC
• Bagotville CTC
• Blackdown CTC
• Cold Lake CTC
• Greenwood CTC
• HMCS Ontario CTC
• HMCS Quadra CTC
• Rocky Mountain CTC
• St-Jean CTC
• Trenton CTC
• Valcartier CTC
• Vernon CTC
• Whitehorse CTC

Technology and Digital Learning Centre (TDLC)

The TDLC will be delivering eLearning Courses (2 weeks – 10 days, Monday to Friday). Learn more about the Technology and Digital Learning Centre (TDLC) courses.

Advanced Training and Staff Cadets

National Cadet Advisory Council (NCAC)

The NCAC provides the opportunity for the Command and senior CJCR Gp staff to engage directly with a group of senior cadets from across the country on a variety of Cadet Program related topics. NCAC participants are staff cadets and will be required to provide the same information as other staff cadets. Learn more about the National Cadet Advisory Council.

Staff Cadets (SCdt)

SCdt pre-requisites and additional information is contained within CJCR Gp Order 5530-5, Staff Cadet Employment.

Upon accepting a SCdt position and prior to the start of their employment period, SCdts will be required to provide their valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) and a hard copy of their banking information to their Regional Cadet Support Unit (RSCU) J1 Staffing. A cadet selected for a SCdt position will not be authorized to begin their period of employment without first providing a valid SIN and personal bank account information.

Compensation rates for SCdts may be found in CANCDTGEN 010/24, Staff Cadet Employment Rates of Pay - 1 June 2024. All SCdts will receive a statement of earnings. Please note that errors and delays in returning paperwork may cause delays in pay.

SCdts are required to complete the same forms as course cadets found above.

SCdts are hired often without a determination of what role they will fill. A SCdt orientation is conducted to determine what role and corresponding rank a staff cadet may be promoted to.

The following checklist of items required specific to SCdts:

• Proof of Social Insurance Number (Card or Letter)
• Direct Deposit Form – Attach a void cheque, stamped bank slip, or account information print out from online banking.

Submission of required information may be done by mail to your home RCSU staffing office or on Cadet365 through the Protected B portal.

Insurance

SCdts are entitled to medical and dental benefits in accordance with QR(Cadets) Chapter 6 – Chaplain, Medical, Dental and Legal Service and CJCR Gp O 5530-5, Staff Cadet Employment.