Cadet Corps

About the Cadet Corps

• Youth team
• Diverse young people, 14-18 years old, fully committed to the program
• Participant rights and responsibilities
• To be involved, engaged, and supported
• To be respectful and demonstrate integrity within the community

Key Benefits

• Interactive look into Ottawa Police Service and our community
• Valuable relationships with friends, role models and mentors
• Build skills, develop confidence, and enhance a resume

To become a Cadet Corps member, you must:

• be 14-18 years of age
• attend a secondary school
• pass an Ottawa Police Service volunteer background check
• be available about 20 hours per month, including weekly meetings

How do I apply?

Recruitment takes place in the fall. 

To become a Cadet Corps member, you must attend an Information Session (held each September), take part in an interview process and pass an Ottawa Police Service volunteer background check.

Details of the annual Information Session will be posted on this page and our social media channels in advance.

Membership opportunities will vary depending on the number of returning youth.

Essential duties and major responsibilities

Cadets are required to: 

• assist with Crime Prevention initiatives (such as Child Print)
• assist with OPS events (such as the Police Memorial Service)
• assist with community service initiatives
• give tours of the police facility at 474 Elgin Street
• attend and actively participate in all scheduled meetings and events

Program volunteer role (Advisor):

Once a Cadet turns 18 and has completed high school, they may apply for one of the available Advisor positions with the program. As well, the Cadet may explore other volunteer opportunities within the OPS.

Essential requirements of this assignment:

• 14 years of age to a maximum of 18 years of age as of September 1st of the program year
• be a resident of Ottawa
• be enrolled in a secondary school
• have no criminal record
• be available for approximately 20 hours per month
• be of good character
• have demonstrated dependability
• have demonstrated commitment (to another program or endeavour)

Desired requirements of this assignment:

• have proven leadership skills
• have previous volunteer experience
• have previous experience working as part of a team

Note: Good character and conformity to Ottawa Police policies, guidelines, and directives are bona fide occupational requirements of all Ottawa Police volunteer assignments.

Supports required/available for this assignment:

• Clear boundaries and expectations
• Convenient local bus routes are available to our various locations
• Supervision, progress, and performance evaluations provided regularly
• Specific identified supervisor, training, general orientation and program leadership
• Letters of recommendation are available upon request after completing one full year in the program (successful completion includes active participation and satisfactory attendance).