Fire Cadets is a youth initiative for 13 to 17 year olds and is run by firefighters, staff and volunteers with support from the Service’s Safety Education Team. The Cadets programme seeks to be representative of the community and we actively encourage individuality, diversity and inclusion.

Fire Cadets participate in practical and theoretical fire and rescue service activities, including hose drills, breathing apparatus procedures and fire safety awareness sessions. The scheme teaches young people essential life skills such as team work self-discipline, confidence and leadership.

The Fire Cadets course takes place over the academic year, in term time only and will run from the week commencing, 23 September 2024 to July 2025.

There are four Fire Cadet Units in Berkshire, courses held at Crowthorne Fire Station and Whitley Wood Fire Station take place on Wednesday evenings, and those at Newbury Fire Station and Maidenhead Fire Station take place on Thursday evenings.

All sessions run weekly from 7pm to 9pm.

At the end of the course, the Fire Cadets will have a graduation ceremony, where they will perform drills in front of their family and friends, demonstrating what they have learnt during the course.

Liz Warren, Safety Education Manager, said: “We are looking forward to welcoming a new group of new Fire Cadets this September. Our committed Fire Cadet Instructors are ready to support them throughout the year and we are all excited to see how they progress.”

During the course, the Cadets will have the opportunity to work with others within their communities, developing team-building and leadership skills while participating in fire and rescue service activities.

Sessions consist of a combination of practical and theoretical fire and rescue service activities, including understanding how the fire and rescue service operates and learning about fire, road and water safety. The course is designed to be 80% practical, with all of our Cadet units using dedicated fire engines and equipment. The Cadets also have uniform and fire kit provided for the duration of the course.

If you are between 13 and 17 years old and are interested in this opportunity, or if you know someone who would be interested in taking part, please complete the online application form.

Please note that Whitley Wood and Newbury cadet units are currently at full capacity for applications.

If you require further information please email firecadets@rbfrs.co.uk

At Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, we want you to bring your whole self to work.

Equality, diversity and inclusion are more than just words for us. That’s why we are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels included and respected, and where no one is unfairly discriminated against. All applications are considered on merit alone. We are a Disability Confident Leader – if you meet the essential criteria of the role, you will be guaranteed an interview.

Simply: Our community is varied and diverse. Our workforce should be too.

At Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, everyone is welcome.To find out more, visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pages.