If you are aged 12 -16 and are looking for a new and exciting after-school activity then Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s (RBFRS) Young Firefighters scheme could be just what you are looking for.
Young Firefighters is a youth initiative run by firefighters, with educational support from RBFRS’ Prevention department. Working as a team, Young Firefighters take part in practical and theoretical fire service activities, including hose drills, breathing apparatus procedures and fire safety awareness sessions. The scheme also teaches young people essential life skills such as self-discipline, confidence and leadership.
The Young Firefighters unit at Crowthorne Fire Station meets every Wednesday evening from 7pm until 9pm during term time and is now looking for more young people to join them from Wednesday 14 September 2016 until Wednesday 12 July 2017.
Lee Glover, a lead instructor for Young Firefighters, said: “Having been a Young Firefighters Instructor for about 14 years, I get great satisfaction from seeing new cadets, with the help of myself and the team, developing their social and communication skills as well as watch their confidence soar.
“I take pride in developing their firefighting attributes and watching it all come together at the passing out parade, held in front of parents and senior fire service staff. From a group of cadets that haven’t met or known each other before the start of the course, turning them into a confident, cohesive team takes time, dedication and a lot of patience but is ultimately very rewarding.”
Karla Fox, who is the mother of Young Firefighter Jade Fox said: “Young Firefighters has been a really positive experience for my daughter. She has gained confidence and it’s improved her self esteem which has also been noticed by her teachers at school. All the staff and volunteers have been brilliant; they are all very understanding and supportive.”
To register your interest or to find out more about Young Firefighters, please email huttp@rbfrs.co.uk and oharem@rbfrs.co.uk before Friday 9 September 2016. There are limited spaces available so make sure you register your interest as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.