Fire Cadets

Fire Cadets is a nationally recognised long-term educational programme open to young people, aged 13-17 from all backgrounds.

Fire Cadets aims to provide quality after-school provision for young people in the area, linking to the government-backed National Fire Cadets model.

Currently, we operate three long-term Cadet units attached to Western, Central and Coalville Fire and Rescue Stations. These units, which can take up to 15 cadets at a time, are open to all young people aged 13 and 17. Cadets have to commit to attending sessions every week during school term time between the hours of 16.30 - 18.30.

Typically, Cadet sessions run for two hours per week and include similar content to the FireSkills course (see page 6) with the addition of extra sessions such as first aid, water and road safety. Young people get the opportunity to progress to become volunteer instructors or leaders and participants follow the syllabus of the National Fire Cadet Award.

The national model includes a requirement for cadets to carry out social-action activities in their communities; these can be fundraising, volunteering on local community projects, or supporting our Fire and Rescue Stations' community safety work. There are also opportunities to link up with other national and international Cadet groups. Cadet Instructors and Volunteer Cadet Leaders are competent in basic drills, e.g. how to run out a hose, pitch a ladder, and ship a hydrant, and they are taught how to instruct these skills. Young people interested in joining one of our Fire Cadet groups can contact the Youth Team via email Youth.Mailbox@leics-fire.gov.uk for more information and an application form. We would also be very pleased to hear from any adults who would like to find out more about volunteering as a Cadet Volunteer Leader.

We are always happy to talk to schools or external agencies who wish to help fund the set-up of a Cadet group. A cadet project is long-term and would normally run for at least an academic year, so participants can achieve the National Fire Cadet Award.

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Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service currently runs units at:

Western Fire and Rescue Station – Tuesdays 16:30 – 18:30
Coalville Fire and Rescue Station – Wednesdays 16:30 – 18:30
Central Fire and Rescue Station – Thursdays 16:30 – 18:30

We currently charge £15 per term which is paid in advance and all uniform is provided. All uniform must be kept clean and presentable to uphold the standard of appearance.

Please email, youth.mailbox@leics-fire.gov.uk if you require more information and to request an application form.

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Volunteering

Fri, 17 May 2024 15:24

If you are 18 years and above, why not become a Volunteer Cadet Leader?

Volunteers typically help one evening a week, which varies depending on where the units are held. Your help may also be needed for occasional weekends.

We currently have 3 units that run from Western, Central and Coalville Fire Stations and we are looking to add a fourth at Uppingham.

What happens at a Fire Cadets session?

Fri, 17 May 2024 15:24

The programme, which lasts 12 months, helps young people build their confidence while also learning about:

the use of firefighting equipment and the incidents attended by Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service.
fire safety in the home and the community.
youth social action activities to make your community safer and better.
supporting Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service at open days and events.

What will I learn as Volunteer Instructor?

Fri, 17 May 2024 15:24

In return, you have the opportunity to gain a range of transferable skills as well as having the chance to complete a number of accredited courses including:

Drill Yard Supervision – how to safely supervise practical activities performed by the Cadets on our drill yard.

Safeguarding Children – a bespoke course designed specifically for the emergency services, which identifies what is meant by safeguarding and child abuse, and helps you spot the signs and know how to respond.

Equalities and Diversity – learn how to identify and tackle unlawful discrimination in the workplace and help improve the workplace culture in which you volunteer.

What skills and experience do I need to help?

Fri, 17 May 2024 15:25

Our volunteers don't need to have experience of working with young people, just a passion for helping change a young person's life for the better. There are some practical requirements too. To join us, you'll need:

To be 18 or over.
To be willing to commit to regular weeknight evenings and occasional weekends during term time.
A desire to work with young people.
All volunteers are, of course, required to complete mandatory training including an induction into Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, safeguarding children as well as undergoing an enhanced DBS check.

5 reasons to support Fire Cadets

Fri, 17 May 2024 15:25

First and foremost, because it's really rewarding and really good fun. But there are lots of other reasons too:

Give young people the best possible start – the Fire Cadets make an incredible difference to young lives. And that's an incredible feeling.

Be part of the firefighting community – join us as a volunteer and you join the Service family, playing a real role in making Leicestershire a safer place.

Make new friends and amazing memories – be a part of some unique experiences that many people can only dream of!

Get ahead if you're job hunting – if you're looking for work, volunteering experience is a great way to prove your skills, and we can act as a reference too.

Gain valuable experience – and get free training in safeguarding children and supervising young people in practical activities.

Special Consideration: While the standard age range for joining the Fire Cadets is 13 to 17 years old, we understand that there may be exceptional circumstances where individuals outside this age range may possess the qualities and commitment to contribute effectively to our program. We are open to evaluating such special cases on an individual basis. The decision to consider a candidate outside the standard age range will be made after a thorough assessment of their suitability and potential to thrive in our Fire Cadets program.