Indigenous Leadership Opportunity Year (ILOY) Joining Instructions 2025/26

Welcome

Welcome to the Indigenous Leadership Opportunity Year (ILOY) – a unique one-year program designed to provide Indigenous candidates with individual, group, and cultural experiences that help build their indigenous self-identity, leadership, academic, and life skills. You are about to enter one of Canada’s national military colleges, the Royal Military Collage of Canada (RMC), and you can feel justifiably proud of your accomplishment. Graduates of ILOY have established a reputation of service and achievement.

ILOY will expose you to a rich and very proud military tradition at RMC, to Indigenous traditions and heritage, provide exposure to university level education as well as and preparing you for a future in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) or within your communities.

ILOY 2022/2023 End of Year

Introduction

ILOY was first offered at RMC in 2008. Military and civilian staff are supported by Indigenous elders and by the RMC academic staff in providing the year’s program. The program is run in conjunction to the Regular Officer Training Plan (ROTP) at RMC where mbrs complete one of many 4-year bachelor’s degrees and continue as future Officers in the CAF. ILOY candidates participate in most activities with the other naval and officer candidates of RMC including sports, military training, clubs, and classes.

Upon completion of the program, ILOY candidates can apply to continue into an ROTP program at RMC, in a degree program, relinquish to become a Non-Commissioned member of the CAF, apply for transfer to a Civilian University under ROTP-CIVU, or request a further academic preparatory year at the Canadian Military Collage Royal (CMR) in St-Jean Quebec. They can also continue in the CAF via a transfer to the primary reserve, Rangers, of COATS.

For those students who choose not to remain with the CAF, this program provides opportunities to explore potential aspirations and opens doors for future education or leadership activities. Upon completion of ILOY candidates who do not wish to continue with a CAF career will be provided support in returning to their communities.

History

RMC is situated on Point Frederick, just east of Kingston on the northeast shore of Lake Ontario. We acknowledge the land on which the RMC campus is situated as the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe and Huron-Wendat peoples, where we are proud to work with Elders and local communities and having the opportunity to provide the ILOY program at RMC.

Point Frederick is a site of considerable historic importance. In 1789, a naval depot and dockyard were established on the Point and it became the headquarters for the Provincial Marine. During the War of 1812, the Provincial Marine was absorbed by the Royal Navy and Point Frederick became the main military base in Upper Canada. The dockyard built and maintained the Lake Ontario fleet, which by the conclusion of hostilities in 1815 included the H.M.S. ST. LAWRENCE (112 guns) and the H.M.S. PRINCE REGENT (58 guns). The naval presence continued until the 1850s and in that post-war period, the Rideau Canal, Fort Henry and four Martello Towers were built to augment Point Frederick dockyard.

The creation of the Dominion of Canada in 1867 and the withdrawal of the British garrison in 1870 brought the Canadian government to address the problem of Canadian defense. Two batteries of artillery were established in 1871 to help fill the gap left by the withdrawal of the Imperial regulars. These troops marked the beginning of the regular Armed Forces of Canada. Given the long military history of Kingston, it is not surprising that the new Military College, as it was originally designated, was located in the city. The College opened on 01 June 1876 with the class of 18 officer candidates. The right to use the prefix ‘Royal’ was granted by Queen Victoria in 1878. Since 1876 the College has undergone many changes. RMC became a degree-granting university by virtue of an Act of the Ontario Legislature in 1959. The College now grants degrees in Social Sciences, Humanities, and Science and Engineering in both official languages.

ILOY is constantly evolving; Its objectives remain the same and it continues to offer opportunities for Indigenous candidates through its year of exposure to military life, academics, and cultural activities.

Terms of service

Recruiting Centres’ staff will explain to you your “terms of service” (TOS) including pay entitlements. They will give you an information package to read, sign and retain. You are embarking on a possible career, should you choose to do so, in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) that will be full of opportunities, challenges and rewarding experiences. However, it is important to start with realistic expectations, so make sure that you understand your terms of service and retain the information package for later reference.

ILOY 2023/2024 Completion of the obstacle course

ILOY Orientation Program

When you arrive at RMC, you will be required to participate in a month long ILOY Orientation Program from 11 August until 12 September 2025. During these training days, there will be administrative in-clearances as well as some basic military instruction. You will also have an academic program developed to help better prepare you to commence studies at the College.

ILOY 2023/2024 Graduation ceremony and meeting with the Right Honourable Governor General Mary Simon

Arrival at RMC

You are required to arrive on between 6-8 August 2024 as the program will commence at 0600 11 August 2024.

In order to coordinate arrival procedures, it is asked that you send your itinerary to Sergeant Justinn Franklin at Justinn.Franklin@forces.gc.ca. Further coordinating instructions will be provided by Sgt Franklin when he receives your travel plan.

Should you fail to inform Sgt Franklin in advance, you are to report to Security Control Centre on Campus, as the Commissioners at the front gate when you arrive for direction, and call Sgt Franklin at.

Should you arrive earlier or later than these hours, you will report directly to the Security Control Centre. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and guided to your dormitory where you can bring your belongings.

You are required to bring a number of documents with you; the list is at Documents to Bring. These documents will be used to process you administratively as members of the CAF.

When you arrive at RMC, you must wear appropriate and comfortable clothes to be able to walk long distances when conducting your arrival procedures. Jeans are not allowed. The following types of clothing are recommended:

Appropriate Civilian Clothing for Cadets

Shirt and/or Blouse and/or polo shirt, clean pants and comfortable shoes and/or high heels. Platform-styled shoes are not permitted during arrival.
ILOY 2022/2023 Graduation parade

Life at the College

Your first weeks at the college will be the ILOY Orientation Program followed by, the ILOY Program.

ILOY will be an intense period of academic studies and training designed to prepare you for your acceptance into a recognized post-secondary institution at year’s end. In addition to the demands of academic studies, you will also learn traditions, history, and rules and regulations of the College.

Further to this, ILOY prides itself in its robust cultural component, where you will be exposed to and participate in many indigenous activities that will help you and other students gain a better appreciation for the indigenous ways of knowing and self-identity. You will also become involved in fitness activities which will increase your level of physical fitness and to develop your ability to work effectively within a team. You will be permitted to leave the college grounds with permission, using a sign-out registry but only after completion of the three-week Orientation Program.

Beginning 04 September 2025, most of your time will be spent on academic studies with the majority of your military activities conducted during Wednesday mornings and on selected weekends. The following schedule shows a typical weekday.

Typical Weekday Schedule during ILOY

 
Time Activity
6 a.m. Reveille, wash, dress and breakfast
7 a.m. Cadet Wing Parade / Squadron Activities
8 a.m. Classes
11:50 a.m. Lunch
12:40 p.m. Classes
4:45 p.m. Varsity or Intramural Sports
6:45 p.m. Dinner
7:30 p.m. Study / Quiet Hours
 

Weekends at the College are divided into two categories: leave weekends and training weekends.

Leave weekends are opportunities for you to take time away from the College to both tour the region or visit family and friends.

Training weekends are times when you will remain on college grounds to participate in parades, sporting events, attend briefings, or engage in other military or cultural training. During training weekends, officer cadets are restricted to the greater Kingston area.

A schedule of major dates for the coming year is included at the Calendar of Dates.

Academics

Academic classes will begin in September following the Orientation Program. During your year at RMC, you will be following a set of courses specifically designed to prepare you for acceptance into a post secondary institution that you may apply for. The courses that will be tailored to fit your needs will require you to put a great deal of personal effort into accomplishing your goals. This will lead towards the ultimate goal of successfully achieving the ability to enroll into a post secondary institution with the aim of obtaining a post secondary degree.

At times it may seem that the academic workload is overwhelming. However, the organizational and time management skills that you are taught during your College orientation, combined with hard work and the extensive help network of the College, plus Indigenous cultural supports, normally allow you to meet and overcome all challenges – while at RMC and later in your career.

RMC academic class 2024

The Physical Fitness Component

Physical fitness is an important aspect of your life at RMC. RMC has several programs to assist you to continuously improve your fitness.

You are requested to participate in physical education each week. These classes are designed to teach you the training principles and methods, how to plan training sessions and the rules and regulations of various sports, while at the same time improving your physical fitness.

Your fitness level is tested throughout the using the CAF FORCE Test. You will be tested soon after your arrival at RMC. The test is explained in the Physical Fitness Guide.

There is an excellent sports programme at RMC. All students in ROTP shall participate in either the Intramural or varsity programs, ILOY candidates have the opportunity to try out and join if they wish. The list of sports is in College sports and Recreation Clubs.

ILOY 2024/2025 Obstacle course parade

Professional Military Component

The objective of ILOY is to provide a highly positive, productive and preparatory education and leadership experience. This includes all aspects of military socialization, discipline, team building, and leadership development and is also a central feature of your time at RMC.

Training is accomplished through formal sessions during your year at RMC. There are leadership opportunities within the academic program, various briefings, activities and thorough practical experience in positions of responsibility. All of this training takes place under the instruction and supervision of experienced CAF officers and senior non-commissioned members.

Upon successful completion of the ILOY program you will earn the BMOQ Mod 1 qualification.

ILOY 2022/2023 Graduation ceremony parade

Cultural Experience

The Indigenous Leadership Opportunity Year (ILOY) program places a strong emphasis on cultural enrichment, fostering a deep understanding and appreciation of Indigenous traditions, history, and perspectives. The program is supported by Indigenous Elders, knowledge keepers, and speakers from diverse nations who share their wisdom and lived experiences.

Through the ILOY year, participants have the opportunity to engage in meaningful cultural experiences such as sharing circles, teachings on sacred medicines, smudging ceremonies, sweat lodges, and traditional POWWOWs. They can also take part in hands-on workshops focused on Indigenous crafts, storytelling, and other time-honored practices that have been passed down through generations.

While participation in these cultural experiences is voluntary, it is highly encouraged, as it allows ILOY members to develop a deeper connection to Indigenous ways of knowing through direct engagement. These experiences not only promote cultural awareness but also foster respect, leadership, and a broader perspective on reconciliation and Indigenous resilience.

This aspect of the program continues to evolve each year, shaped by the guidance of Indigenous communities and the unique experiences of its participants. Through these interactions, ILOY members gain valuable insight into the richness and diversity of Indigenous cultures, strengthening their understanding of Canada’s shared history and the path toward a more inclusive future.

ILOY's elder teaches how to build a tipi

RMC Band

The RMC Band was formed in 1953. Starting as a Pipe and Drum Band, it has since grown to include a Brass & Reed Band, a Choir and a Highland Dance team.

The RMC Band plays a very active and important role in College life by providing music for all parades and military functions. The Band has gained wide popularity through its participation in various public shows in the Kingston area such as charity concerts, performances for veterans’ groups and retirement homes.

Experience is not required to join the band, as there are two military professional musicians who provide instruction and training.

Extra curricular activities

RMC also offers a wide range of clubs and recreational activities. These clubs, which are normally organized and administered by officer cadets, provide an opportunity to participate in numerous military and civilian activities.

ILOY 2021/2022 Orientation Day Raising the tipi

Things to bring with you

RMC will become your primary residence and you will need to come with enough clothing to be comfortable through all four seasons. The dress code at RMC is strictly enforced and specific clothing will be required depending upon the activity.

The kit list is provided as an example only. You may choose to bring more clothing as required, keeping in mind that storage at RMC is limited. If you are currently taking prescribed medication, bring it with you as well as any supporting documentation if applicable.

Those who have already been issued military kit must arrive with all military equipment listed in the Military Equipment kit list of this document.

Items on the list not previously issued will be issued upon arrival.

Much of the time during first year is spent wearing issued uniforms, however you should bring an appropriate amount of civilian attire for evenings, weekends, and extracurricular trips.

It is also strongly encouraged that you bring any traditional clothing, regalia, or other cultural items as you will have many opportunities to wear or show them.

 
Item Quantity
Underwear 10
Socks 10 pairs
Towels 2
Facecloth 1
Bathrobe 1
Shower Sandals 1 pair
Toiletries as required
Eyeglasses (if required 1 pair
Sewing kit 1
Combination lock 2
Jacket and tie / Ladies' suit (jacket with trousers or skirt) 1
Seasonal Clothing (Rain Jacket, Winder Coat as required
Casual pants 2
Causal shirts with a collar 2
Dress shoes 1
Running shoes 1
Swimsuit 2
Military Clothing and issued Kit (CT only) all
Sports clothing (shorts, shirts, socks, etc.) as required
Water-Resistance Sports Watch 1
Laptop 1
 

*Male OCdt candidates are not required to bring Sports bras and Feminine hygiene products.

You may also bring the following items if you choose:

  • Sports equipment (hockey equipment, skates, tennis or squash racket, etc) (RMC only);
  • Musical instruments;
  • Radio/CD/MP3 player (something small, no component stereos);
  • Alarm clock;
  • Backpack (plain dark or neutral colour); and
  • Laptop personal computer

ILOY participates and is featured prominently in RMC’s yearly Sunset Ceremony. The Sunset Ceremony typically features a drum circle and dancers.

Personal laptops should be brought for use in the dorm rooms and will be used to complete school assignments. RMC has computer labs available but does not issue laptops for use.

Should you not currently own a personal computer, one can be purchased through the on campus CANEX or CFB Kingston CANEX. Internet connections are available in each room and the costs are included in your monthly accommodation fees. Having a personal laptop is essential to complete the academic component of the ILOY program.

National Defence has specific rules regarding the use of computers both in the dorms and the workplace. Each candidate must carefully follow these rules to avoid disciplinary and/or administrative sanctions. This policy will be explained during your in-clearance during OP phase of the ILOY program.

Prohibited articles

Do not bring any of the following items with you:

  • Firearms or edged weapons (switch-blade knives, knives with blades longer than six inches)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Illegal substances
  • Materials with sexual connotation (magazines, photos, DVD, accessories, etc)

Restricted materials

Here is a list of articles on which there are particular restrictions:

  • Cellular Phones, during orientation program use may be restricted in their use during duty hours at the discretion of the instructors;
  • Any other electronic equipment for entertainment (tablets, laptops), at the discretion of the instructors during the orientation program; and
  • Personal Vehicles. You may have access to your personal vehicle; however, such access will be limited following the orientation program. Prior to this, you will not have access to your vehicle.

It is recommended that you have $150 cash with you to cover incidentals. Most of the time you will be wearing uniforms which will be issued to you. A good rule is that if you cannot keep your personal item(s) in your room, then leave it (them) at home, as storage space is limited.

Stores and services

There is a small retail store (CANEX), located in the basement of Yeo Hall, capable of meeting most personal needs as well as providing crested clothing and gear. The hours are:

 
Mon-Thurs 0800-2000
Friday 0800-1730
Sat & Sun Closed
 

The RMC barbershop, also at the same location, provides military haircuts at a reasonable price ($9.00). Appointments can and should be booked. The hours are.

 
Mon-Fri 0830-1630
Sat & Sun Closed
 

A Bank of Montreal (BMO) Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is located outside the Canex. BMO is currently the service provider of the Canadian Defence Community Banking program.

Transportation

The administration staff at the Recruiting Centres will organize all your transportation to Kingston. Your travel from the Toronto or Ottawa Airports, will be coordinated with the RMC College Orderly Room. If you need to take a taxi, remember to keep the receipt because you will be reimbursed for this expense. If you arrive by car, directions to the College are found at Visiting RMC.

ILOY 2023/2024 Field exercise - Command orders

Contact Information

While at RMC your mailing address will be:

Officer Cadet (name & initials)
ILOY Program
Royal Military College of Canada
PO Box 17000, Station Forces
Kingston ON K7K 7B4

Sergeant Justinn Franklin
ILOY Non-Commissioned Officer
Justinn.Franklin@forces.gc.ca
343-422-7713 (cell)
613-541-6000 ext 3741 (work)

Lieutenant Commander Adam Ness
E-Div Commander, ILOY OC
adam.ness@forces.gc.ca
613-540-1879 (cell)
613-541-6000 ext 3707 (work)

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your staff. It may be difficult for people to phone you directly, but you are encouraged to phone home regularly. Should you not have access to a personal cell phone your family may reach out to you through the Squadron Staff telephone number, 613-541-6000 ext 3707. You will be given a College e-mail address, which you can use in the computer labs and on your personal computer. In case of emergency, your family can contact your Squadron Staff, during normal hours or the College Training Wing Duty Officer after hours at 613-541-7697.

Further Information

If you require any further information related to academics prior to your arrival at RMC, you may contact the RMC Liaison office at RMC or write to:

Liaison Office
Royal Military College of Canada
PO Box 17000, Station Forces
Kingston ON K7K 7B4

If you would like to speak with liaison personnel, please call 1-866-762-2672 or visit our website.

Conclusion

Work hard and enjoy your summer. Use the Checklist provided to ensure that you are prepared for your arrival at RMC. We look forward to seeing you in August.

ILOY 2023/2024 Field exercise - Patrol

Annexes

Documents to Bring

  • Provincial Immunization records
  • Blank cheque or bank draft with bank account information
  • Travel claim with receipts
  • Emergency Contact information
  • Copies of documents from previous service (certificates, course reports)
  • Birth certificate
  • High school and post secondary transcripts (if any)
  • Eyeglass prescription (if applicable)

Dates of Major Events at RMC

Undergraduate calendar

Physical Fitness Guide

RMC Physical Fitness guide and introduction to the Force test

College sports and Recreation Clubs

Varsity Teams

​Competitive Clubs

As an extramural sports program, the Competitive Clubs provide RMC students an enhanced opportunity for training and competition that are otherwise not available as a Recreational Club.

  • Taekwondo
  • Rowing
  • Swimming
  • Running
  • Women's Rugby
  • Sailing

Recreational Clubs

  • Astronomy
  • Aviation Enthusiast
  • Bilingualism
  • Chess
  • Climbing
  • Curling
  • Debate
  • Expedition
  • Judo
  • Paintball / Airsoft Photography
  • Sport Parachuting
  • Stage Band
  • Theatre
  • Multi-Sport
  • War Games
  • Windsurfing
  • Yacht
  • CFB Kingston Recreation

Checklist for RMC First Year Cadets

Itinerary
Send travel itinerary to justinn.franklin@forces.gc.ca, as soon as known
Equipment
Personal clothing as per the above list
Military equipment (for component transfer only)
Documents
Travel Claim (and receipts)
Birth Certificate
Blank Cheque or Bank draft
Immunization record
Documents from previous service (if applicable)
Emergency contact information
Eyeglass prescription (if applicable)
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