570$air$cadets$ squadron$handbook$ · 2015-02-15 · frequently$askedquestions$...

570 Air Cadets Squadron Handbook

2014-‐2015 Training Year

Greetings from the Commanding Officer

Welcome to Air Cadets! You are embarking on a year of growth, learning and fun. The staff here will do everything possible to make this one of the best years of your life. We will do this in an atmosphere that respects our responsibility to provide a safe and nurturing place for young people to learn.

All we ask of you is that you make the commitment to attend regularly, follow the rules and customs of the squadron, and treat your fellow cadets with courtesy and respect. We parade on Thursday evenings from 6:30-‐9:15pm during the school year.

Cadets who are willing to do the work and attend regularly will have the opportunity to earn important courses during the summer as well as awards and scholarships. Throughout the year these same factors will determine which cadets attain leadership positions in the squadron and promotions. Advancement will be based on merit, not just longevity; staff and your peers will decide.

We are fortunate to be supported by our parents committee, The Friends of 570 Society. With their help we can offer an interesting program, including plenty of outings and other extra events. If you are a parent or legal guardian, you are automatically a member of the society. We encourage all parents/guardians to help the society when they can so that the squadron can grow and continue to be involved in fun activities in our community.

If at any time you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at [email protected]

Together we will lead this Squadron to great things this year!

Sincerely,

Angela Schuurman Captain Commanding Officer

570 Sir Winston Churchill Air Cadets

Meet the Squadron Staff:

Commanding Officer…………………………………………………………………………………..Captain Angela Schuurman Training Officer/Deputy Commanding Officer……………………………………………..Lieutenant Mark Bromley Support Services Officer/Unit Cadet Conflict Management Advisor……………..Lieutenant Steve Doherty Administration Officer…………………………………………………………………………..Lieutenant Tamara Sutherland Supply Officer………………………………………………………………………………………..Second Lieutenant Laura Geen Volunteer Instructors: Assistant Training Officer/Sr. Cadet Coordinator.......……………………………………………..Mrs. Nancy O’Brien Level Instructor…….…………………………………………………………………………………………..Miss. Ashley Petryshyn Level Instructor…….……………………………………………………………………………………………..Miss. Ocean Doherty Level Instructor…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….Mr. Will Trebell Drill Advisor………………………………………………………………………………………………….…….Cpl Jonathan Hotchkis Squadron Contact Information: Phone Office Phone (Thursday Evenings)………………………………………………………………….780-‐973-‐4011, ext 5286 Squadron Cell Phone……………………………………………………………………………………………………..780-‐991-‐3113 The office phone will be monitored on Thursday evinings, messages will only be checked at that time. During activities or throughout the week, please contact the squadron cell phone. This will be checked periodically throughout the week by the duty officer and we will attempt to return calls within 48 hours. Email Squadron general email………………………………………………………………………………[email protected] Commanding Officer………………………………………………………………………[email protected] Unit Cadet Conflict Management Advisor……………………………………………[email protected] Address Brig. General James Curry Jefferson Armoury -‐ 11630-‐109 Street, Edmonton Alberta Website/Social Media Please visit our website or Facebook page for general information, activity notices and weekly announcements. www.570squadron.com www.facebook.com/570RCACS

Squadron Procedures: Thursday Timings 18:00 – Staff Arrive 18:30 – Opening Parade/Attendance 19:00 – Period 1 Training 19:35 – Period 2 Training 20:05 – 15 Minute Canteen Break 20:25 – Period 3 Training 21:00 – Closing Parade Training periods are 30 minutes in length. After second period, cadets are given a longer break which allows them to use the canteen if they choose. A selection of snacks and drinks will be available for costs under $5.00. Reporting Absence/Late Arrival Cadets missing training are required to phone in prior to 18:30 on training nights, or at least 30 minutes before an activity. Please leave a message on one of the squadron phones describing the reason for absence. It is important to report an absence so that cadets are marked excused, this will ensure training progression is not impacted by missing a night or activity. If you arrive late to cadets, report to your flight commander and ensure you are marked down on the attendance sheet. If cadets are already in class, please report to the administration officer in the squadron office. Building Access As we parade in a military facility, building access is strictly controlled. To gain access, please dial the squadron extension (5286) on the phone in the entrance of the building. A staff member or cadet will answer the phone and will come to the front to let you in. If both doors are locked you can use a mobile phone to call the office (780) 973-‐4011 ext 5286. Classroom Expectations In order to ensure an engaging and dynamic learning experience, we expect all cadets to come to class with a willingness to learn and improve. All cadets should do their best to participate at a level that they are comfortable to ensure they gain the most from their training experience. Please bring a pen and paper every week!

Remember the Cadet Motto: TO LEARN TO SERVE

TO ADVANCE

Frequently Asked Questions

Who instructs Cadets?

Cadets learn from members of the Cadet Instructor Cadre (CIC), officers who are specially trained to instruct and supervise youth. In some cases, civilian volunteers who possess special skills are called in to assist Cadet Instructors. Both the Cadet Instructors and civilian volunteers have chosen to dedicate their valuable time to helping Cadets reach their potential.

Will Cadet training affect schoolwork?

Education is very important to Cadets. Cadet training is a hands-‐on, activity-‐based program that should complement school studies. In fact, some provincial and territorial education boards accept Cadet subjects for school credits. As well, there are several scholarships available through Cadets.

Will my son/daughter be expected to join the Canadian Forces?

No. Cadets make absolutely no commitments regarding future military service, and are free to leave at any time. However, those who decide to join the Forces later on start out with the advantage of having learned valuable skills through Cadets.

When will I get my uniform?

The uniform is an important part to feeling included in the cadet program. After being in the program for a few weeks, cadets will be measured by our Supply Officer, who will provide a cadet with uniform parts that are currently in stock. Everything else is ordered, and can take several weeks to arrive.

What is the cost?

There is no cost for enrollment or uniforms! This program is intended to be accessible for all Canadian youth. Most activities are paid for by either the DND or the sponsor. Expect to pay a small deposit when interprovincial or international trips are planned.

Terminology we use

LHQ – (Local Headquarters) this is where we meet each Thursday night.

Parade – When the cadets get together (form up) in the gym (“parade square”) as organized groups, at the beginning and end of the night.

Flight – a specific group of cadets, usually formed up on the parade square.

Sqn – (Squadron) – several Flights of cadets (we are known as 570 Air Cadet Sqn).

CO – (Commanding Officer) -‐ the highest rank CIC member at the Sqn, is responsible for the management and supervision of cadets, staff and volunteers, and the cadet training program.

RCSU – (Regional Cadet Support Unit) – the CO of 570 Sqn is responsible to the Air Training Officer and must conform to regulations and policy directed from the higher headquarters. The Area Cadet Officer (ACO) appointed by RCSU Winnipeg will come out to visit the Sqn twice a year to ensure that we are following the mandated program, and offer their assistance.

The Sponsors Partnership

The Air Cadet Program is run by a partnership of:

-‐ The Department of National Defence (DND) who provide/support the adult instructors who are Canadian Forces Reserve Officers in the Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC). The DND also supports mandatory cadet training and provides uniforms;

-‐ The Air Cadet League of Canada who provide/support the flying and gliding program as well as support many other functions of the Royal Canadian Air Cadet Program.

www.aircadetleague.com, www.aircadetleague.ab.ca -‐ The Squadron Sponsoring Committee -‐ Friends of 570 Society. This is the parents sponsoring

committee that conducts fundraising in order to cover costs not supported by the DND or the Air Cadet League. The committee raises the majority of funds through bi-‐annual casinos with the Alberta Gaming Commission. Other fundraisers are generally in conjunction with citizenship activities undertaken as part of the cadet program mandate.

The parent sponsoring committee meets the first Thursday of every month to discuss upcoming events, fundraising ideas, and any training concerns they may have with the Commanding Officer

If parents would like to volunteer on the Committees, or just attend the monthly meetings to keep in touch

with the program, please feel free.

Working together we can accomplish anything!

Positive Social Relations for Youth The safety and well-‐being of every cadet is of primary importance to the Canadian Cadet Movement (CCM). This is why the Positive Social Relations for Youth (PSRY) Program was developed. It's our response to the realities of today's world.

Harassment and abuse can happen in any organization. This behavior might range from unkind and demeaning remarks to racial slurs to physical and sexual abuse. This behavior is unacceptable in the CCM. The program provides cadets and all adult members of the CCM with the information and training to prevent this behavior from happening and with guidance on what action to take should it happen (in or out of the program).

The training provided on Positive Social Relations for Youth puts the emphasis on establishing and promoting positive social relations among peers. This goal is achieved by preparing the cadets to:

-‐ interact comfortably within the cadet community;

-‐ interact positively with others;

-‐ exercise sound judgment;

-‐ accept personal responsibility and be accountable for actions and choices;

-‐ deal with interpersonal conflict; and

-‐ seek assistance from available resources when needed.

Harassment and abuse

are unacceptable within the Canadian Cadet Movement!

Addressing Concerns:

All concerns will be treated with respect and with confidentiality. Parents and cadets are encouraged to see our Unit Cadet Conflict Mangement Advisor (Lt Doherty) if there are any issues. You are welcome to contact the Commanding Officer, Capt Schuurman, at 780-‐991-‐3113 or [email protected] with questions or concerns. Please bring up concerns as soon as possible.

IF WE DON’T KNOW THERE IS A PROBLEM – WE CAN’T FIX IT

The Flying Scholarship Program

Air Cadets is a wonderful organization. It is a place where dreams can come true for anyone willing to work hard. The gift of flight is an incredible privilege and you have the opportunity to achieve it through the Air Cadet Flying Scholarship programs.

Cadets who have completed level 3 and are aged 16 through 18 have the chance to earn their wings for either gliding or private pilot qualifications.

The flying scholarship program is a very challenging and demanding course requiring and extra amount of dedication. The ultimate reward is the opportunity to pursue a flying or gliding scholarship with the possibility of beginning a career path in aviation.

Ground School training for these opportunities is conducted on Sunday evenings, starting in early September and finishing in late December. This is done separate from the regular Thursday evening training because of the depth of material to be covered and the time needed to properly cover all subjects.

Subjects that are covered are as follows, but not limited to: meteorology, navigation, theory of flight, air regulations, airmanship and aircraft structures.

The course material is presented in an enjoyable, yet serious manner, making use of as many different training aids as possible: movies, audio, guest instructors. Cadets are not required to wear uniforms on these extra nights.

The Flying and Gliding Scholarship candidates will be preparing themselves for an exam at the beginning of January which will hopefully be the beginning of their aviation dream.

“When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been and

there you will always long to return”

Leonardo da Vinci

Marksmanship Marksmanship is the sport of precision target shooting with air rifles. In the cadet program, we use the Daisy 853C Legend Air Rifle. All of our practices are structured around safety and are run by highly trained officers that are certified Range Safety Officers (RSO).

Marksmanship is open to cadets of all ages and all experience levels. Practices help the cadets to learn the skills they need to compete at the regional zone competition. Once they qualify at the zone competition, they can then move on to compete at the cadet provincial competition.

As skills progress and cadets become more precise with their shooting, they are able to qualify for marksmanship levels that are reflected with a badge they can wear on their uniform

Band Training The cadet program has many opportunities for musicians of many types. From summer training to local events, our musicians take part in a variety of activities. 570 squadron is currently building a Pipes and Drums Band and offers free lessons on the bagpipes and drums. We provide all required equipment at no cost to the cadets. Training is currently taking place on Sunday evenings.

Air Cadet Summer Training Opportunities

General Training

The General Training Course provides cadets who have recently joined the Cadet Program an introductory summer training experience where they will participate in a variety of activities from each specialty, to include Drill and Ceremonial, Music, Marksmanship, Aviation, Aerodrome Operations, Aircraft Manufacturing and Maintenance, Aerospace, and Aircrew Survival. Cadets applying for this course should have successfully completed Proficiency Level One.

Basic Drill and Ceremonial (Air)

The Basic Drill and Ceremonial (Air) Course provides cadets an opportunity to build on drill learned at the squadron, participate in advanced drill and ceremonial activities, and to develop leadership skills and knowledge; while performing the role of a team leader. Activities include commanding a squad on parade, drill with arms, flag drill, and marksmanship training. Cadets applying for this course should be 13–14 years of age, and have successfully completed Proficiency Level Two.

Basic Aviation

The Basic Aviation Course provides cadets an opportunity to develop the fundamentals of aviation. Activities include radio communication, a familiarization flight, meteorology, and air navigation. Cadets applying for this course should be 13–14 years of age, and have successfully completed Proficiency Level Two.

Basic Aviation Technology and Aerospace

The Basic Aviation Technology and Aerospace Course provides cadets an opportunity to develop the fundamentals of aerospace, airport operations and aircraft manufacturing and maintenance. Activities include aerospace, aerodrome operations, and aircraft manufacturing and maintenance. Cadets applying for this course should be 13–14 years of age, and have successfully completed Proficiency Level Two.

Basic Survival

The Basic Survival Course provides cadets an opportunity to develop aircrew survival skills. Activities include field training, navigation and ground search and rescue. Cadets applying for this course should be 13–14 years of age, and have successfully completed Proficiency Level Two.

Leadership and Ceremonial Instructor

The Leadership and Ceremonial Instructor course provides cadets an opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge to become an instructor and team leader during drill and ceremonial activities. Activities include advanced drill, instructional techniques and leadership. Cadets applying for this course should be 14–15 years of age, and have successfully completed Proficiency Level Three.

Advanced Aviation

The Advanced Aviation Course provides cadets an opportunity to develop as a specialist with the skills and subject matter knowledge required to be an instructor and team leader for aviation activities within the Air Cadet Program. Activities include instructional technique, radio communication, meteorology, and air navigation. Cadets applying for this course should be 14–15 years of age and have successfully completed Proficiency Level Three.

Survival Instructor

The Survival Instructor Course provides cadets an opportunity to develop as a specialist with the skills and subject matter knowledge required to be an instructor and team leader for aircrew survival activities within the Air Cadet Program. Activities include instructional technique, first aid, survival and field training, and ground navigation. Cadets applying for this course should be 14–15 years of age and have successfully completed Proficiency Level Three.

Advanced and Specialty Summer Training Opportunities (Scholarships)

Advanced Aerospace

The Advanced Aerospace Course provides cadets an opportunity to develop as a specialist with the skills and subject matter knowledge required to be an instructor and team leader for aerospace activities within the Air Cadet Program. Activities include instructional technique, first aid, astronomy, orbital mechanics, and model rocketry. Cadets applying for this course should be 14–15 years of age and have successfully completed Proficiency Level Three.

Advanced Aviation Technology – Aircraft Maintenance

Advanced Aviation Technology – Aircraft Maintenance is a six-‐week course that provides Cadets the opportunity to learn aircraft maintenance skills through a set of practical, hands-‐on training activities, such as installing and removing rivets used in aircraft metal structures, performing a landing gear retraction test on a fixed wing aircraft, assembling an input driveshaft from a turbine powered helicopter. Cadets applying for the Advanced Aviation Technology – Aircraft Maintenance course must successfully complete Proficiency Level Three by the end of the training year.

Advanced Aviation Technology – Airport Operations

Advanced Aviation Technology – Airport Operations is a six-‐week course that introduces Cadets to the various components of operating an airport. Cadets will learn about airside operations, meteorology, navigation, air traffic services, ground services, and safety. They will also examine some of the history and advancements in the aviation industry and explore employment opportunities. Cadets applying for the Advanced Aviation Technology – Aircraft Maintenance course must successfully complete Proficiency Level Three by the end of the training year.

Glider Pilot Scholarship

The Glider Pilot Scholarship is a six or seven-‐week training program that results in successful candidates graduating with their Transport Canada Glider Pilot License. Cadets applying for the Glider Pilot Scholarship must be 16 years old by September 1st of the year the course is taken, must successfully complete Proficiency Level Three by the end ofthe training year, must achieve a mark of at least 50% on the Canadian Armed Forces qualifying exam, must have completed Grade 9 or equivalent (Senior 1 in Manitoba) by the nomination deadline, must obtain a valid Category 3 Medical Certificate from Transport Canada, and must meet the minimum and maximum height and weight limitations. The physical limitations for height and weight are: minimum height of 152.4 cm and a maximum height of 190.5 cm, and a minimum weight of 40.82 Kg and a maximum weight of 90.72 Kg.

Power Pilot Scholarship

The Power Pilot Scholarship is a seven-‐week training program that results in successful candidates graduating with their Transport Canada Power Pilot License. Cadets applying for the Power Pilot Scholarship must be 17 years old by September 1st of the year the course is taken, must successfully complete Proficiency Level Four by the end of the training year, must achieve a mark of at least 50% on the Canadian Armed Forces qualifying exam, must have completed Grade 10 or equivalent (Senior 2 in Manitoba) by the nomination deadline, must obtain a valid Category 3 Medical Certificate from Transport Canada, and must meet the maximum weight limitations. The maximum weight for a student pilot is 111.13 Kg (245 lbs).

International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE)

The IACE is intended only for outstanding senior cadets who will represent Canada with distinction. Selection requirements include: outstanding Air cadet record, good school record, excellent personal characteristics, including appearance, dependability, cooperation and the ability to communicate effectively. It is 2 to 3 weeks in duration, depending on country visited. The minimum age is 17 years old by August 1st of the year the exchange is held. Cadets must be complete Proficiency Level 4 by the application date.

How do you get selected for Summer Training? This is one of the greatest opportunities offered by the Air Cadet program. Every cadet that comes in to our squadron has the opportunity to attend a Summer Training Program. However our squadron is not able to send all of our cadets for summer training. So, who decides who gets to go and who doesn’t? That is a simple answer…

YOU

You make the choices that will decide whether or not you get selected for camp:

-‐ Are you showing up for cadets every Thursday? Are you on time? Do you attend mandatory training activities?

-‐ When you can’t make it to a cadet event, do you call the office to let someone know?

-‐ Is your uniform clean and pressed, boots shined and hair kept neatly?

-‐ Are you paying attention in class and not being disruptive?

-‐ Have you come out to extra events? (Remembrance Day Parades, Open House, Weekend

Exercises, etc?)

-‐ Are you being respectful to the staff, other cadets and officers?

In December, cadets will receive a sheet to fill out the camps they are interested in attending. These forms must absolutely be returned on time, otherwise camp applications will not be sent in and you will miss out! Please watch for this and mark it on your family calendar. A priority list based on the above will be made and submitted to RCSU in Winnipeg. Summer camp selections will likely be announced in April. Please do not be discouraged if you are not immediately selected; as things change, new cadets are added to the training list up to the start date of the course.

Cadets that apply for advanced training options (scholarship courses) will be required to complete a narrative and interview as well as provide a record of school grades. The selection for the courses will be completed by the Air Cadet League of Alberta.

Uniform Care Cadets are issued, at no cost to them, a uniform that they must maintain throughout their cadet career. They will be taught how to shine their boots, iron their shirt and press their tunics and pants.

Knot Tying (Windsor style)

Boot Lacing (Straight Lace)

Your uniform must be clean (free from lint and dirt), pressed a hot iron, and buttoned up (jacket front and

Boots must be clean (no mud), and polished to a high

You are now the face of the cadet program, wear uniform proudly by following these

Proper Haircuts

Female Male

Badge Placement

How to “Spit” Shine Boots

1. Spread a thick layer of polish over the leather to be spit shined. Wrap a soft, clean cloth around your index finger so you will have a smooth area on the end of your finger and dip it in water (we don't really use spit) so it is thoroughly wet but not dripping (see note 1 below).

2. Using a small circular motion (see note), buff the polish with the wet cloth until a shine starts to develop. Then, still using the damp cloth on your finger apply a fine layer of polish in a circular motion and keep rubbing until a hazy shine develops. Keeping the cloth damp, build up the shine with layers of polish applied circles with light pressure until a glossy shine develops.

Note: The reason you use a wet cloth is to stop the fine coats of polish sticking to the cloth and to encourage the polish to stick to the leather. You want to keep on building up layers of polish until you have a completely smooth surface that gives the glossy shine.

3. After the first heavy coat of polish you must use minimal amounts of polish to build up the shine. If you use too much polish, the solvent in the polish you are applying will dissolve the base you have already built up and you will have to start in that area again.

4. When sufficient shine has developed, use a clean, dry, soft cloth to give a final buff and remove any last haze.

Important things to Remember!

1. If you can’t make it to cadets on a Thursday Evening, call 780-‐991-‐3113 or 780-‐973-‐4011 ext. 5286 to be recorded as “excused” and not absent. (This helps in selections for camp).

2. Please check the squadron website or Facebook page for announcements

3. Sports nights are generally non-‐uniform nights, and all cadets are expected to participate. Please be dressed in appropriate sports clothing. Attendance is still important on these nights, if you cannot attend please call!

4. Squadron staff will be checking your uniform every Parade night. Make sure pants, shirt

and tunics are pressed, boots are shined and your uniform is free from lint

5. If you have grown out of a uniform part, bring that part to Supply to exchange it. Make sure to bring in the rest of your uniform to wear, once you have received the new part.

6. Cadets should arrive each night at 6:25 pm. If you are late, report to your Flight

Commander on parade. Make sure to report your attendance to the office if classes have started.

7. The CO and staff are glad to meet with cadets and parents. However, please remember

that Cadet nights from 6:30 to 9:00 pm is our time for training and we may not be available! Feel free to call us and agree on an alternate time to discuss anything about the cadet program.

570 Sir Winston Churchill Royal Canadian Air Cadets

Parade Night: Thursday 6:30-‐9:15pm Jefferson Armoury 11630 – 109 Street Edmonton, AB Armoury Phone: (780) 973-‐4011 ext. 5286 Squadron Cell: (780) 991-‐3113 Squadron email: [email protected] CO email: [email protected] Website: www.570squadron.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/570RCACS

Thank you for your interest in 570 Air Cadets!

570$air$cadets$ squadron$handbook$ · 2015-02-15 · frequently$askedquestions$...

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