Working alongside serving firefighters, the course aims to develop confidence, teamwork, self-esteem, self-belief and a sense of citizenship and community engagement in all those taking part.

Participants received a high level of education around fire safety in the home and safety on the roads. Participants also learned new life skills, such as effective communication, leadership and first aid. Skills were delivered through fire-service based activities such as high pressure hose drills, casualty rescues, breathing apparatus scenarios, search and rescue, ladder pitching and climbing, and many more.

On the final day of training skills were put on display in front of family members, friends, schools and supporters in a very special Passing out Parade. All participants were awarded with a personalised Certificate of Achievement from the Chief Fire Officer of Essex Fire Service, as well as a Level 1 AQA Award in Community Firefighting training skills, which is of GCSE standard.

“All the students worked extremely hard throughout the week, in some cold and very wet conditions - without any fuss!” commented Gary Dyer, Watch Manager of Basildon Fire Station, Essex County Fire & Rescue Service.

Congratulations to all those who successfully took part!