MY CHILD IS TURNING 12 SOON. SHOULD I BOTHER WITH NAVY LEAGUE?
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Absolutely, their is substantial overlap in the training and its a much easier transition then starting higher level cadet programmes from scratch. NLCC Cougar is affiliated with RCSCC Lion who parades out of the same location. Many of the cadets in Lion originated in Cougar. However, if Sea Cadets is not for you perhaps Air Cadets or Army Cadets is? The basic introduction is universal and frequently Navy League cadets join other branches.
IS THERE A PROGRAM SIMILAR TO NAVY LEAGUE FOR AIR AND ARMY CADETS?
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Sorry there are no other programs for the 9 to 11 year olds. But the good news is we really encourage kids to stay in cadets, there isn't a focus on one branch of service over another.
HOW OFTEN DO NAVY LEAGUE CADETS MEET?
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Most corps (pronounced “core” – that’s what we call each group) meet one evening each week from September to June. Summer activities are much less formal, there are some weekend activities or trips, as well.
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DO NAVY LEAGUE CADETS USE RIFLES?
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Navy League Cadets are no longer trained to shoot rifles nor are they allowed to use rifles as part of any parades or demonstrations. This was discontinued in March of 2015. Occasionally documentation will reference a rifle activity, i.e. a marksmanship badge, but these references are slowly being phased out.
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IS IT A MILITARY PROGRAM?
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No. The Navy League of Canada is a civilian organization. Our cadet program uses a naval military themes as a platform to develop good citizenship, leadership, a sense of duty, self-discipline, teamwork, healthy living and respect for others. There is no commitment and you may leave any time.
HOW MUCH DOES THE PROGRAM COST?
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Almost all corps are free, though some charge a small administration fee. To help fund NL programs and cover the costs of uniforms, cadets and their parents are required to participate in fundraising activities. NLCC Cougar costs $30 for a ball cap and T shirt at registration. For 2024-25 their are no plans for annual dues.
DO CADETS HAVE TO BUY UNIFORMS?
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No. Cadet uniforms are provided by The Navy League of Canada. Cadets are required to maintain their uniforms and return them when they leave the program.
WHO CAN BE A MEMBER?
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Any child that is between 9 and 12, and a Canadian Citizen or landed immigrant, is eligible to participate. The Navy League of Canada is committed to providing a learning and working environment for all persons that is free from harassment. The Navy League of Canada requires employees, officers, cadets, parents, volunteers and all other visitors to conduct themselves in a manner, which promotes and protects the best interests and well being of cadets, staff and volunteers. Allowances are made to respect cultural dress, and youth with disabilities are considered on a case by case basis.
WHAT DO NAVY LEAGUE CADETS DO?
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The Navy League Cadet programme is designed to offer activities that are both fun and educational. As a Navy League Cadet, your child will get the opportunity to:
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learn about boating and water safety
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go camping
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participate in parades and community events
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play sports
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learn knot tying, communications and other seamanship skills
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go on citizenship tours and other trips
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Some corps even offer a music program!
WHO LOOKS AFTER THE CADETS?
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The Navy League of Canada is a volunteer organization. The programme is supervised by members of your community. Each has undergone Volunteer Screening and receives training from the Navy League. Safety is always paramount, and there is a first-aid qualified adult at every activity.