Canada’s Cadet Program is a national youth development initiative supported by the Canadian Armed Forces and civilian partners. Young people aged 12 to 18 are eligible to join. Participation is voluntary and free of charge, emphasizing leadership, citizenship, physical fitness, public service, and interest in the Canadian Forces—without any obligation to enlist.
Each element, Army, Air and Navy has its own traditions and training focus. Army Cadets often learn outdoor survival, navigation, and expedition skills. Cadets wear uniforms reflecting their respective branch and participate in ceremonial parades, marksmanship, and community service. Many participate in summer training camps where they develop advanced skills and earn qualifications.
48th Highlanders Cadets
In 1940, the 48th combined with the Rotary Club of Toronto to found the RYTC Cadet Corps. Highlanders who had fought in WWI volunteered as trainers and Captain Beaver Read MC became Officer Commanding. The cadets quickly grew to 400, with companies at York Memorial and Malvern Collegiate, then to 550 plus a Cadet Pipe Band. In 1959, when the government changed its focus of the militia (reserves) away from military to nuclear defence, cadet corps were disbanded. In 1971, with military tasking reestablished the 48th Highlanders restarted its cadet corps. Today the regiment sponsors the 48th Highlanders Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, headquartered in Toronto. This corps instills Highland traditions, including drill to pipe music and wearing elements of Highland dress. Cadet experiences have included open water scuba certificate, parachute training and the Duke of Edinburgh’s award program.
St. Andrew’s College Cadets
In 1905, St. Andrew’s College, an independent boys school in Aurora, Ontario, began to form a cadet program for its students. They came to the 48th for help in uniform design and instructors. They added a Pipe Band in 1915 with pipe training by the 48th’s Pipes and Drums, training that continues to this day. St. Andrew’s College Cadet Corps is unique among Canadian schools in maintaining a continuous cadet program, reinforcing leadership and responsibility within the student body.
