Youngsters in a blaze of glory! (From Thurrock Gazette)

Youngsters in a blaze of glory!

10:48am Wednesday 20th March 2013 in News

YOUNG firefighters were rewarded for their achievements at a ceremony at Corringham fire station.

Youngsters from Ormiston Park, Ockendon Academy, Harris Academy, William Edwards and Hassenbrook schools took part in the Essex Fire Authority’s five-day Firebreak course.

The 12 students learnt skills including first aid and fire safety, as well as undertaking a version of firefighter training.

They were rewarded with an AQA, the equivalent of a GCSE pass, at the end of the week and took part in a pass-out ceremony to celebrate.

The £4,000 scheme, funded by Lakeside shopping centre, promotes leadership, teamwork and motivation.

Stuart McMillan, divisional officer for community safety, said: “It’s all about using the fire service values and ethos of working as a team to achieve common goals.

“The first course was in 2005 and since then we have helped thousands of youngsters.”