National RCA(M) Summer School
Captain DA Lockridge
The past summer provided two novel experiences. The first was the establishment of the National RCA(M) Summer School. The second, a summer tasking in CFB Shilo near our dependents (finally!).
The School, commanded by Major W.M. Scott, CD, was staffed by 120 members of 3 RCHA. The School consisted of an administrative element, a four gun Firing Troop, and training cadres for five distinct courses:
Courses were based on revised standards designed to allow advancement consistent with the individuals availability for training. Each course prepared the candidate for basic employment at his present or next higher rank.
Practical field exercises were utilized as the teaching vehicle whenever possible. Courses were combined to allow candidates to gain experience working with other Militia personnel in command or technical appointments. For example, the Captain Qualifying Course, in the field six to nine training days, were supported by other candidates fifty per cent of the time.
The instructors shared a great deal of knowledge with their candidates in the limited time available. In return the students displayed an equal amount of enthusiasm. The exchange was rewarding. The students departed with enough knowledge to keep them pointed in the right direction. The staff departed with the satisfaction of knowing their effort were successful and appreciated.
The Canadian Gunner, 1972, Volume 8, December 1972, page 45
The past summer provided two novel experiences. The first was the establishment of the National RCA(M) Summer School. The second, a summer tasking in CFB Shilo near our dependents (finally!).
The School, commanded by Major W.M. Scott, CD, was staffed by 120 members of 3 RCHA. The School consisted of an administrative element, a four gun Firing Troop, and training cadres for five distinct courses:
- Captain Qualifying RCA(M) Block 2 (two weeks);
- Lieutenant Qualifying RCA(M) Block 1 (two weeks);
- Lieutenant Qualifying RCA(M) Block 2 (two weeks following Block 1);
- Artillery Technician Pay level C (three weeks); and
- Senior NCO RCA(M) (two weeks).
Courses were based on revised standards designed to allow advancement consistent with the individuals availability for training. Each course prepared the candidate for basic employment at his present or next higher rank.
Practical field exercises were utilized as the teaching vehicle whenever possible. Courses were combined to allow candidates to gain experience working with other Militia personnel in command or technical appointments. For example, the Captain Qualifying Course, in the field six to nine training days, were supported by other candidates fifty per cent of the time.
The instructors shared a great deal of knowledge with their candidates in the limited time available. In return the students displayed an equal amount of enthusiasm. The exchange was rewarding. The students departed with enough knowledge to keep them pointed in the right direction. The staff departed with the satisfaction of knowing their effort were successful and appreciated.
The Canadian Gunner, 1972, Volume 8, December 1972, page 45