ROYAL Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) has announced it is now recruiting Fire Cadets for 2025/26.
Fire Cadets is a youth initiative for 13- to 17-year-olds, run by firefighters, staff and volunteers, and seeks to be representative of the community.
This means organisers actively encourage individuality, diversity and inclusion.
Cadets participate in practical and theoretical fire and rescue service activities, including hose drills, breathing apparatus procedures and fire safety awareness sessions.
The scheme teaches young people essential life skills such as teamwork self-discipline, confidence and leadership.
At the end of the course, the cadets will have a graduation ceremony, where they will perform drills in front of their family and friends, demonstrating what they have learned during the course.
During the course, the cdets will have the opportunity to work with others within their communities, developing team building and leadership skills while participating in fire and rescue service activities.
Sessions consist of a combination of practical and theoretical fire and rescue service activities, including understanding how the fire and rescue service operates and learning about fire, road and water safety.
Fire Cadet units use dedicated fire engines and equipment, and uniform and fire kit provided for the duration of the course.
Liz Warren, Lead Safeguarding and Safety Education Manager, said: “We are excited to welcome a new group of Fire Cadets this September.
“Our dedicated team of Fire Cadet Instructors is prepared to support and guide them through an inspiring year of growth, learning and teamwork.
“We look forward to seeing each young person develop their skills and confidence as they take on this rewarding journey.”
The course takes place over the academic year, in term time only and will run from September 22 to July next year.
There are four Fire Cadet Units in Berkshire – Fire Cadets at Crowthorne Fire Station and Whitley Wood Fire Station take place on Wednesday evenings, and on Thursday evenings at Newbury Fire Station and Maidenhead Fire Station.
All sessions run weekly from 7pm-9pm, open to applications from those aged between 13-17.
More information including application forms is available via: rbfrs.co.uk/your-safety/children-and-young-people
