Students from Chichester College have successfully completed the first IGNITE programme run by West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.
The project is aimed at young people aged 16 and over in further education who are willing to learn but struggle with low self-esteem, low self-confidence, and resilience.
The five-day course covers a range of activities and drills including running hoses, squirting water, and putting up ladders. Students also learn about the physicality of being a firefighter and the importance of nutrition and take part in discussions and mindfulness activities.
A special pass out parade was held to celebrate the students’ achievements on Friday (2 December) at Bognor Fire Station.
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Peter Rickard and the High Sheriff of West Sussex, Mr James Whitmore attended the event. They presented the young people with their medals and certificates.
Speaking after the event Peter Rickard said: “I was delighted to meet the students who took part in our first IGNITE programme.
“This programme provides a great introduction to the fire service and has been designed to support young people with self-esteem and confidence issues to prepare them for adult life.
“The course is mentally and physically challenging, and the students should be really proud of what they have achieved. The skills they have learnt will support them in whatever they choose to do in the future, and I hope many of them will consider a career within the fire service.”
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