Release date: 3 May 2024
Thirteen young people have successfully completed the latest GRIT course run by West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.
The course aims to promote personal resilience, improve wellbeing, strengthen relationships, and build healthy communities.
During the course, the pupils aged 11-14 from Oathall Community College and Warden Park Secondary Academy took part in a diverse programme of firefighter simulated exercises and activities to support their social and emotional development.
This combination of drill yard skills such as running hoses and squirting water, alongside teambuilding challenges, first aid training, and communication activities, helps to equip young people with lifelong skills and improve their confidence.
A special pass out parade was held to celebrate the pupils’ achievements on Friday (3 May) at Haywards Heath Fire Station in front of their proud families and the High Sheriff of West Sussex, Mrs Philippa Gogarty.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Peter Rickard, attended the event and presented the young people with their certificates.
Speaking after the event, he said: “I was delighted to meet the young people who took part in our latest GRIT course.
“They have really pushed themselves and embraced all the activities on offer which is fantastic. I was very impressed watching them demonstrate their new skills and I hope they are proud of everything they have achieved.
“These courses run by our Targeted Education team have a huge impact on young people across West Sussex. The combination of practical skills and personal development delivered by positive role models really helps to create a positive learning environment that suits their needs.”
You can find out more about West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Targeted Education programmes.
