Students learn fire fighting skills

A GROUP of students from Oakfield Academy took part in their passing out parade last week, after completing a course at Frome Fire Station.

11 students aged 12 to 13 years old, took part in the four-day course. Students were trained by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service Phoenix instructors and were given an insight in how the fire service operates and its role in the community. The students learnt basic firefighting and first aid skills.

The students trained throughout the week, accumulating in a passing-out parade attended by parents, teachers and representatives from the Fire Service.

Lead instructor Ian Humphreys said, “The children have worked really hard and  were a credit to their school.  The transition from when I first met the children on Tuesday morning to their passing out on the Friday was remarkable, as coming from their world into ours is a huge step and they should be very proud of themselves.”

Excited student Daisy Warder said, “Being the only girl on the course was difficult but it was really fun taking part doing the fire tasks, the whole course was fantastic!”

Student Callum Kitchen added, “The course was mind-blowing I liked it so much that I’m going to join the Fire Cadets.”

The Phoenix course is designed to encourage self-confidence, build self-esteem, leadership skills and to work as part of a team.