"FireSkills is a very worthwhile programme which was very successful due to the hard work and commitment of the Fire Station Staff and Programme Co-ordinators".
"From the outset, planning and preparation for the programme was outstanding. Three young people have had a very positive experience that they will never forget and have in addition, gained a qualification that will be useful to them throughout their lives."
FireSkills is a four to five-day course consisting of basic fire-fighting drills such as hose running and pitching ladders, mixed in with "classroom" sessions on arson and/or first aid.
This short (30-hour) course aims to enhance young people's self-esteem and confidence by improving their teamwork and communication skills, all in a Fire and Rescue Service environment.
To help foster the team environment, the young people all wear team polo shirts, and are provided with fire kit, including; safety boots, tunic, trousers and helmets for drills. The group also has its own fire engine to look after. FireSkills takes place on a Fire and Rescue Station, with the practical drills being led by firefighters.
The timetabling of sessions is very flexible. We have previously run FireSkills both during and after school, in term-time and holidays as well as over the weekend, so the possibilities are endless. The exact course content will vary according to the needs of the participants, although practical firefighting drills will always be the main focus. At the end of the course, there is a formal 'passing out' presentation so the group can display their new skills to an invited audience.
To take part in FireSkills, young people need to be ages 13-17. It is open to both boys and girls and our target group is usually young people who do not engage well with the usual school curriculum, often those who are committing crime or anti-social behaviour or are at risk of doing so.
Here is an example of a typical timetable:
To date, we have delivered many FireSkills courses at various fire stations, including Lutterworth, Market Harborough, Shepshed, Loughborough, Birstall, Hinckley, Wigston, Southern, Coalville and all three city fire and rescue stations. FireSkills is a targeted initiative reliant on external funding, and we are always pleased to talk to individual schools or organisations who may wish to commission a course. For more information, contact us.
