Release date: 18 June, 2024
Eleven young people have successfully completed the first EVOLVE course run by West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.
EVOLVE is a new early intervention programme for primary school pupils aged 10-11, designed to support them as they transition to secondary school.
The course is aimed at young people who struggle with anxiety, shyness, or low self-confidence but are willing and motivated to learn.
During the five-day programme, the pupils from South Bersted C of E Primary School and Southway Primary school took part in a diverse range of activities inspired by the role of a firefighter such as running hoses, breathing apparatus exercises, and ladder drills.
The course also incorporated team building challenges, communication activities, and workshops covering road safety, fire safety, and first aid training.
A special pass out parade was held to celebrate the pupils’ achievements on Friday (14 June) at Bognor Fire Station in front of their proud families.
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Head of Protection, Dave Bray, attended the event and presented the young people with their certificates.
Speaking after the event, he said: “It was a pleasure to meet the young people who took part in our first ever EVOLVE course.
“It’s amazing to see what they have learnt in just five days. They have all worked incredibly hard and should be very proud of themselves.
“Transitioning to secondary school is a big step which can feel anxious and unsettling. The aim of the EVOLVE programme delivered by our Targeted Education Team is for every young person to emerge from this course feeling confident, more resilient, and better prepared for this next chapter of their lives.
“I hope this experience has contributed positively to the pupils’ personal development and that they will apply the skills they have learnt going forward in their own lives and in their communities.
You can find out more about West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Targeted Education programmes.
