Welcome to the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa RCACC

We are members of the Army Cadet League of Canada.  Cadets follow the Army Cadet Honour Code: “I resolve, as a member of the Royal Canadian Army Cadets, that I shall aspire to become a citizen of the highest integrity in my community; I shall strive for success in my studies, to be considerate of all persons and their property, and to achieve the highest physical, mental, spiritual and moral standards as a Citizen of Canada.”  The core principals of the Cadet program are Leadership, Citizenship and Physical Fitness. 

Well we’re biased, but ARMY of course!!  All of the cadet organizations are fantastic and each will teach you valuable skills while having great fun. The choice is yours.  All we ask is that you come visit us on one of our training nights before you decide.  After that, you’ll know. 

Here are just some of our activities: Expeditions (Ontario, Canada and overseas), Hiking and Mountain Biking, Canoeing, Camping, Orienteering and Military Navigation Training, Air Rifle Shooting, Biathlon Team, Marksmanship Team, Winter Survival Training, Team Sports, Leadership & Citizenship Training, Radio Procedures, Summer Camps (we pay you to go!) and much, much more!! 

While the Cadet program does foster a better understanding of the Canadian Forces, and the Department of National Defence provides funding for the program, Cadets are absolutely NOT in the military!  You will not handle assault weapons, throw grenades, drive a tank or fight overseas!  But you will go abseiling, canoeing, camping, patrolling, go on field training exercises, and learn to lead other Cadets – just to name a few.  Also, you’ll play a special role in things like the annual Remembrance Day parade and other community events. Certainly there are a few cadets who might choose to go onward to a military career, but it is not required. Cadets teaches you life skills that you will take with you on whatever path your choose. 

This is the best part for the parents … Cadets is FREE.  The program is funded by the Department of National Defence, with additional local fundraising coordinated by the Support Committee and the Legions.  It costs nothing to join, and the dress uniform, most travel expenses, food, lodging, training and more is free.  There are only a few small expenses such as year-end trips, optional clothing, and pocket money for refreshments during the canteen break each parade night. You are also expected to participate in various mandatory fundraising activities to help support the Cadet Corps as a whole. 

Yes, and no. Cadets are not paid during the school year (September – June). Cadets who attend summer training receive a training bonus during the summer.  Also, senior Cadets who return to summer training as Staff Cadets are paid a daily wage and make very good money.  Most Staff Cadets are 16-18 years of age and they come back with lots of money in their bank accounts! 

Once you have been adequately trained on safety precautions and handling procedures, and have proven yourself a responsible Cadet, you might then be eligible to be coached as a target rifle marksman. Cadets who participate in marksmanship use the Daisy 853C Air Rifle, a pellet rifle designed for Cadet use in marksmanship competitions. Cadets are supervised at all times by the Range Safety Officer (RSO), senior Cadets and coaches. More advanced summer training permits the use of higher caliber rifles, such as the C11 and C12-A1 target rifles, as well as the C7A2 in special circumstances.

Once you are enrolled into the Army Cadets, you are assigned the rank of “Cadet”. From there, you will have to go through ​your training and demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to lead. To learn about the different ranks, and the requirements visit the ranks page.

Cameron's Cadets has something for everyone. If you are a Cadet that would like to do more than attend regular parade nights and exercises, then you should check out one of our many Competitive Teams. Being part of a team adds to your skills and abilities, which will open a world of opportunities for competition and travel.  We currently offers: Orienteering, Biathlon, Marksmanship, and Drill.

You will have other, more senior, Cadets in charge of you.  You will not be bossed around, belittled, or made to do things that make you feel uncomfortable.  You will, however, be guided by your seniors and be made to contribute to the Corps' overall tasks and goals.  You must follow instruction.  However, once you have proven yourself to be a good follower, you will begin to climb the ranks and take on a leadership role of your own.  In no time, you will have Cadets under your supervision and will show them the ropes!  You have the opportunity to progress through eight ranks within the program, beginning with Cadet.  The sooner you join, the sooner you move up!

Definitely!  Whether you are shy or outgoing, you are certain to make a ton of friends in Cadets. Here’s why; when you come to Cadets for the first time, you will be put together with other new recruits and you’ll get to know who they are. Not long after, you will be put into a ‘section’. A section is made up of about 10-12 cadets and these people will become your closest buddies! As soon as you’re in a section, you will meet your Sergeant (Sgt) – the Cadet in charge of your section. The Sergeant is there to answer all your questions – when in doubt, ask your Sergeant!

Sections always work as a team, so you will be surprised just how fast you learn everyone’s name! You will also be placed in a Star Level; Green Star for new recruits. Green Stars attend all their classes and training together, so you will get to know a whole bunch of new Cadets just like yourself. Lastly, if you are concerned about making new friends, bring one with you!  We are always happy to welcome new Cadets and many new recruits bring a friend to join with them.

There are two types of uniforms – Field Training Uniform (FTU; a.k.a. "Combats") and Distinctive Environmental Uniform (DEU; a.k.a. "Full Dress Uniform"). Both are provided at no charge to the Cadet, but both MUST be returned upon leaving the program.

Cadets have opportunities to travel across Canada.  Throughout your Cadet career, you will have a chance to go to different cities in Ontario, and sometimes other provinces.  This is especially true if you join one of the teams, as they often travel to competitions. The Corps as a whole also does trips or citizenship training.  Once you have completed your Cadet training and have obtained your National Star qualifications, you may be eligible to do an overseas exchange with 20-30 cadets from all over Canada!  Exchange Cadets often go to countries such as Australia, England, Wales, Scotland, France, Chile, and even more!  

 Yes, Cadets are insured by the Army Cadet League of Canada, through a private insurance company. To learn more about the coverage, click here  and follow this link.