FireSkills is a flexible programme from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), for any young people aged between 12 – 18 years old who want to develop key skills in a practical setting.

There are no pre-requisites for joining this programme, though it can be designed and developed to meet individual and collective needs of the group, focusing on key topics. The Fireskills programme has been designed to suit a wide range of learners, and can be delivered in any environment by SFRS personnel.

With prior consent and willingness from the young person, referrals can be made by SFRS’ partners in education, social work, Police Scotland, and local Community Learning & Development (CLD) teams. Through the programme, SFRS aims to develop core skills, including problem solving techniques, basic first aid and CPR, through a series of drill ground activities modelled on firefighter drills.

FireSkills will usually take place during school hours, and young people will be supported by a member of staff from the referring agency. The sessions are linked to the Curriculum for Excellence, and can be delivered for up to 35 hours as needed.

Key skills the programme aims to develop in young people include (but is not limited to):

team-working and team-leading
self-discipline skills
problem-solving techniques
confidence and communication
improved physical capability
citizenship skills
an awareness of health and safety
an understanding of the contribution that SFRS and other agencies make to communities
basic first aid skills

To refer a young person, or for further information, please contact Falkirk’s Community Action Team by phone: 01324 629121.