Bradford students take part in firefighting skills programme

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) invited pupils from Park Aspire School, in the West Bowling area of Bradford, to participate in a programme to promote behaviour change and develop confidence.

Pupil from Park Aspire primary school walking up a ladder. Image: UGC (Image: other)

The SHOUT programme is designed for primary school children aged eight and upwards to provide an opportunity for them to experience practical firefighting skills as well as raising awareness of fire and pedestrian training.

The pupils at Park Aspire have a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) from autism to ADHD. So, it was especially rewarding that they completed the programme despite the barriers they face with their individual learning and behavioural needs.

Park Aspire student with firefighter after completing six week course. Image: UGC (Image: UGC)

During the programme, led by Youth Interventions trainer, Annabel Pugh, the children were kitted up in a replica firefighting uniform and took part in mock practices drills on the drill square. They used hoses, ladders and other equipment to develop social skills and resilience.

The programme culminated in a celebratory Passing Out Parade where the children’s families and teachers were invited to see the young people showcase the skills they had learned. The WYFRS invited their Assistant District Commander, Dave Cookson and Labour Councillor Ruth Wood to attend and celebrate with the children.

Councillor Wood said: “The passing out parade of the pupils has to be the highlight of my two terms of office so far.”

Students using the hose assisted by a firefighter. Image: UGC (Image: UGC)

One parent commented that their child had loved every moment of it and was inspired to look for future opportunities with the fire service. Another parent said that their son was shy but the course had done a great deal to bring him out.

Children said it was brilliant with comments including that they’d been scared performing a ladder leg hook but they felt proud that they’d done it. And that on using the hose, the force of the water going through it was very strong but it was fun doing it.

The fire service’s SHOUT programme aims to provide positive role models for young people. Ultimately this experience can improve a young person’s life journey and make them less likely to need or instigate blue light services now and in their futures.