IGNITE students celebrate their success at Crawley Fire Station

Twelve students from Crawley College have successfully completed the latest IGNITE programme 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 young people aged 16 – 19 took part in a diverse programme of firefighter simulated exercises and activities to support their social and emotional development.

Councillor Duncan Crow, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said:

“IGNITE is delivered by our Targeted Education Team who run a range of courses across the county to support young people who struggle with low self-esteem, confidence, and resilience.

"These practical and interactive courses teach important skills to help prepare young people for adulthood and make a real difference to their lives.”

A special pass out parade was held to celebrate the students’ achievements on Friday (25 October) at Crawley Fire Station in front of their proud families.

West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Area Manager for Service Delivery, Andy Piller, attended the event and presented the young people with their certificates.

Speaking after the event, he said:

“It was wonderful to meet the latest cohort of students to complete our IGNITE programme.

“Over the course of the week they have taken part in drill yard skills such as running hoses, teambuilding challenges, first aid workshops, and communications activities.

"It’s fantastic to see how much they have learned, and they should be very proud of themselves.”

People can find out more about West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Targeted Education programmes online.