Week 12: Into the thick of it
First detachments
Cadets experience what it is like to respond to calls during their first extended scenario. Just like in the field, it starts when dispatch sends a radio call to their car. Cadets respond to the call, and enter into an investigation by bringing together the skills they have learned to date.
Strength training
Cadets perform many workouts during their time at Depot. This week, cadets shift focus to learning a variety of strength exercises. Strength is the ability of the muscle to generate the greatest amount of force in one all-out effort.
The fitness unit leads these training cycles to develop well-rounded fitness skills for policing.
Flashlight
Police officers spend half of their shifts in low-light conditions. This makes the flashlight one of the most used tools they carry on their belt.
Cadets learn practical flashlight techniques and tactics. What makes this training fun is that a lot of it happens in the dark!
Pro-tip: Flashlights make great graduation gifts for a new Mountie.
The idea and placement of the flashlights is useful; however, I see myself getting a really good one when I get out into the field.
PARE #2
In week 12, cadets do the PARE for the second time.
PARE #1 is used to establish baseline fitness levels in the first week of training. PARE #2 allows instructors to evaluate each cadet's progression of strength and conditioning.
Compared to the first PARE, the weight of the push-pull machine increases from 70 to 75 lbs and the bag carry increases from 80 to 100 lbs.
Highlights
Depot spotlight: Learning Resource Centre
Introducing the Learning Resource Centre (LRC). Here, cadets can access computers, books, videos, magazines, e-resources and study rooms. The LRC provides many services for cadets including exam preparation sessions. These teach cadets effective study skills for mid-terms and final exams.
The LRC also has a variety of items that support a healthy work-life balance. There are board games, card games, puzzles, sporting equipment and even guitars. These items are great way for cadets to reconnect and unwind.
Once cadets leave Depot, they have access to most library materials once they go to their postings!
This was the first time I've been told to get more sleep while studying for an exam. I followed this advice and did well.
Posting spotlight: National Division
National Division is unlike any other division in the RCMP. Although located in Ottawa, it has no defined geographical jurisdiction. It is fast-paced and employees here work to protect national interests.
There are many highly-trained members who work here on specialized teams. They focus on high profile cases that could harm Canada's political, economic and social integrity. This includes domestic and international cybercrimes against Canadians.
Cadet Resource Liaison
Cadets go through many emotions while living at Depot. Balancing Depot and family life, training challenges and new routines is a big adjustment. Cadets have access to several support services and as many tools as possible to succeed in the Cadet Training Program.
The Cadet Resource Liaison in one of the supports we have in place at Depot. They provide support to cadets and help find workable solutions to problems at hand. This includes answering questions about training, clarifying administrative processes and assisting with personal problems.
This person is not part of any training unit or cadet assessment process. They work with cadets to find solutions and can connect them with local networks in Regina.
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