About
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Field Training Exercises, known as FTX's are weekend activities conducted at an outdoor facility. The aim of these exercises is to support the aims of the Air Cadet training program. The program focuses on aspects of downed aircrew survival. In addition, instruction in land navigation, leadership and radio communications are also taught. Providing this instruction allows practical, experiential learning in an outdoor environment rather than in a classroom that is not conducive to learning skills such as these. The key is learning these skills in safe and controlled environment with trained, competent and experienced adult leaders. In addition, training in the field allows cadets to test their leadership abilities, build character, improve physical fitness and can help to overcome fears thereby building confidence in them. As important, these exercises are fun, challenging, safe and give some cadets opportunities that they may not otherwise be able to partake in. Except for extreme conditions, the training will not be impacted by weather. Typically great memories come from weekend where the Corps has overcome adversity which the weather has been known to provide.
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What you should pack
Kit lists are normally attached as an Annex to the Warning Order and will be tailored to the time of year. A sample list is provided here for your convinience. It is important to dress appropriately for the weather and "Kit Checks" are conducted prior to departing for the field to ensure that cadets are prepared for what they will encounter. Some equipment may be available for loan and cadets should speak to the NCOs in charge of the exercise.
| Sample Kit List |
Commonly Asked Questions (Parent Focused)
What do we eat?
Normally MREs (Meals Ready to Eat). Also commonly known as "Ration Packs". Vegetarian options are available for those that require them.
Where do we sleep?
In shelters appropriate for the training and conditions. This can range from sleeping under the stars, lean-to shelters made of natural materials or tarps/ground sheets, tents to possibly cabins (rare).
Do male and female cadets share sleeping accommodations?
No. Male and female cadets are separated into gender specific areas. Therefore they will either sleep in separate tents, be paired with the same gender for lean-to shelters, etc.
Can I call my cadet and/or can they call me?
We would prefer that you don't. However, we are not unreasonable and understand that emergencies happen and contact information for officers on site will be provided. In the event of an emergency in the field, you will be contacted at the absolute earliest opportunity. Cell phones are generally available at field headquarters and where cell coverage is not available, alternate arrangements are generally made for either satellite phone or via amateur radio services.
Can my cadet bring snacks?
No. All the food that they will require will be provided. This is for two reasons. First, is the training value of losing certain luxuries. Second, animals (refer to subsequent question).
Are there animals in the woods?
Yes. The locations of field exercises are outside major urban centres and animal activity is a possibility. Multiple precautions are taken by staff to limit these interactions. The cadets receive classes on what to do if an animal is encountered. It is vitally important that the cadets not have food in their sleeping quarters to prevent attracting wild animals.
What will we be doing more specifically?
Courses can be found in the IGs and QSP in the 190, 290, 390 sections in particular. These classes involve constructing shelters, building fires, collecting water, hiking techniques, navigation, ground to air rescue signals, etc.
Staff Recommendations
We recommend that cadets start to acquire some quality items. Some major items that we recommend are a good pair of hiking boots, a rucksack that easily fits all the required items for the weekend, quality sleeping bags, bivy bag to help keep the sleeping bag dry and clean, and quick drying clothing. In the winter, warm clothing is essential. We require waterproof boots with good insulation and highly recommend some sort of wool or synthetic undergarment for warmth.
Normally MREs (Meals Ready to Eat). Also commonly known as "Ration Packs". Vegetarian options are available for those that require them.
Where do we sleep?
In shelters appropriate for the training and conditions. This can range from sleeping under the stars, lean-to shelters made of natural materials or tarps/ground sheets, tents to possibly cabins (rare).
Do male and female cadets share sleeping accommodations?
No. Male and female cadets are separated into gender specific areas. Therefore they will either sleep in separate tents, be paired with the same gender for lean-to shelters, etc.
Can I call my cadet and/or can they call me?
We would prefer that you don't. However, we are not unreasonable and understand that emergencies happen and contact information for officers on site will be provided. In the event of an emergency in the field, you will be contacted at the absolute earliest opportunity. Cell phones are generally available at field headquarters and where cell coverage is not available, alternate arrangements are generally made for either satellite phone or via amateur radio services.
Can my cadet bring snacks?
No. All the food that they will require will be provided. This is for two reasons. First, is the training value of losing certain luxuries. Second, animals (refer to subsequent question).
Are there animals in the woods?
Yes. The locations of field exercises are outside major urban centres and animal activity is a possibility. Multiple precautions are taken by staff to limit these interactions. The cadets receive classes on what to do if an animal is encountered. It is vitally important that the cadets not have food in their sleeping quarters to prevent attracting wild animals.
What will we be doing more specifically?
Courses can be found in the IGs and QSP in the 190, 290, 390 sections in particular. These classes involve constructing shelters, building fires, collecting water, hiking techniques, navigation, ground to air rescue signals, etc.
Staff Recommendations
We recommend that cadets start to acquire some quality items. Some major items that we recommend are a good pair of hiking boots, a rucksack that easily fits all the required items for the weekend, quality sleeping bags, bivy bag to help keep the sleeping bag dry and clean, and quick drying clothing. In the winter, warm clothing is essential. We require waterproof boots with good insulation and highly recommend some sort of wool or synthetic undergarment for warmth.
Medical And Allergies
Our exercises normally take place within 1 hour of a hospital with emergency services. A safety vehicle is always located on site.
Due to privacy reasons, we are no longer able to ask for details on specific medical conditions or medications. However, if you choose to provide this information to us voluntarily because you think it could be beneficial that we know, it is appreciated. Examples of such information would be severe allergies, prescription medications (ensuring it is taken at the correct time), physical limitations, recent accidents, etc.
Due to privacy reasons, we are no longer able to ask for details on specific medical conditions or medications. However, if you choose to provide this information to us voluntarily because you think it could be beneficial that we know, it is appreciated. Examples of such information would be severe allergies, prescription medications (ensuring it is taken at the correct time), physical limitations, recent accidents, etc.