Cadet Training Program: Course overview and breakdown

Incident Management Intervention Model (IMIM)

Cadets learn how to assess and manage risk in all encounters using the Incident Management Intervention Model (IMIM). This model helps police officers determine the appropriate type of intervention such as verbal de-escalation, restraint and tactical tool intervention to ensure public and police safety.

The IMIM is a visual diagram that is centred around a police officer's continuous assessment. The nature of police work is dynamic and can change rapidly.

This model helps cadets and police officer assess:

• situational factors
• subject behaviours
• officer's perceptions
• tactical considerations

Police officers make ongoing assessments as an event unfolds, aiming to use only as much intervention as needed to keep everyone safe.

Applied Police Sciences

Applied Police Sciences (APS) makes up the largest part of the CTP. It brings together law, science, and practical skills to prepare you for modern policing in Canada. Teaching includes:

• evidence-based practices
• behavioral sciences
• problem solving
• investigation techniques
• risk assessment

Cadets also develop a strong foundation of the Criminal Code and other federal and provincial legislation.

APS training is client-centred and grounded in community-based policing principles.

Other course topics include:

• RCMP history
• CAPRA problem solving model
• communication and presentations skills
• Criminal Code offences
• powers of arrest
• release procedures and court documents
• risk assessment
• fingerprinting and the Identification of Criminals Act

Each troop has a facilitation team of up to three RCMP police officers who are responsible for facilitating and instructing the classroom time and scenario training included in the APS portion of the Cadet Training Program.

Police Defensive Tactics

In Police Defensive Tactics (PDT) training, Cadets learn and practice different methods to protect themselves and others, control situations and safely take people into custody within the provisions of law and policy.

Techniques emphasize communication and community-based approaches and are guided by the IMIM. Cadets develop practical skills with hands-on training including:

• verbal de-escalation
• ground defence and grappling
• handcuffing and searching procedures
• personal safety, position stances, blocks, strikes and body hold releases
• intervention tools, including OC Spray, conducted energy weapon, and baton

Police Fitness Training

Physical preparedness enhances officer safety, public safety and contributes to overall well-being. As a cadet, you are expected to arrive to the RCMP Academy with a strong baseline level of physical fitness. Just like in day-to-day policing, the Cadet Training Program is very physically demanding.

The program includes:

• Police Fitness Assessment
• cardiovascular and strength evaluations
• mental, physical and team building challenges
• functional strength training with bodyweight exercises and conventional gym equipment
• running and operational conditioning classes

Police fitness training develops the strength, agility, cardiovascular endurance and resilience needed for modern policing. Cadets develop well-rounded fitness skills beneficial for career readiness, stress management and provides the potential for lifelong fitness. The variety of skills will help you incorporate physical activity into day-to-day shift work and time on the road. These skills also help when there may be limited access to fitness facilities in the different communities you will work in.

Cadets must meet the Police Fitness Assessment (PFA) "gold standard" to successfully complete the program.

Firearms Training

Firearms training is a key pillar of the Cadet Training Program. Cadets are issued their service pistol during this unit. This is the firearm you will carry throughout your career after graduating.

This unit dives into laws and policies on safe firearm handling, covering training on other firearm use, including shotgun and patrol carbine.

Depot is home to some of the most advanced firearms training facilities anywhere in North America; designed to ensure the highest standard of firearms training.

Police Driving

This unit focuses on driving skills required for emergency vehicle operation. The curriculum focuses on the skills and knowledge to ensure public and police safety while on patrol and when responding to incidents. You'll learn about the laws and policies related to the use of police vehicles and driver-related offenses.

There are various tracks at Depot for cadets to practice their skills. This includes a four-by-four track with terrain similar to those across the country. Driving scenarios and simulations provide a realistic learning environment for cadets to practice safe and effective handling of a police vehicle in high-stress situations.

Cadets receive training in:

• safe and effective handling of police vehicles (for example, collision avoidance, high speeds and high-stress situations)
• observational skills and multi-tasking including using the radio while driving
• appropriate use of police vehicle equipment
• advanced emergency vehicle operation techniques
• risk assessment using RCMP Incident Management Intervention Model (IMIM)
• National RCMP Emergency Vehicle Operation (EVO) Policy

Drill and Deportment

Being professional and displaying proper conduct is a foundation of RCMP service. It is the first impression that our police officers provide in the field. Drill aims to promote teamwork and discipline through ceremonial drills and tactical exercises, preparing cadets to represent the RCMP. It also develops self-control and composure skills while under stress.

This part of the program helps develop and foster:

• pride and professionalism through teamwork
• collaboration
• attention to detail
• respect
• proper etiquette and protocol

Training extends beyond marching. Further success comes down to attention to detail, from your uniform to your living quarters, and your ability to work as part of a diverse team. Cadets learn to recognize and respect differences and work collaboratively toward a common goal. These experiences help to support bias-free policing.

Related links

• Incident Management Intervention Model
• Cadet Chronicles
• Training Tuesdays