A group of north-east teenagers demonstrated how they would rescue people from a burning building as they completed a firefighter training course yesterday.
A special ceremony was held as the children from Peterhead Academy showed off the skills they had picked up over the past six weeks of training at the town’s fire station.
The scheme was launched in conjunction with the Peterdeen project, which helps youngsters who struggle with traditional schoolwork develop life skills through offering them “different educational opportunities”.
The hard work and commitment of the pupils involved was displayed during a demonstration where the young people simulated a rescue operation.
The 11 youngsters showed those in attendance how they would conduct a rescue into a three-storey building, where an adult and a child were trapped.
There followed a presentation where they were given certificates recognising their achievements.
Co-ordinator of the fire safety skills course at Peterhead Fire Station, Willie Toch, said: “I couldn’t be prouder of all of those who took part in the course.
“When the pupils started, I only asked three things from them.
“I wanted them to work hard, to work as a team and respect each other and to stick in. Everyone did a really good job and I’m delighted with what they’ve all achieved.”
Every Thursday for the last few months, the fourth year pupils gained some valuable insight into what work life is like as a firefighter – as well as receiving basic first aid training.
Station manager, Craig Shand, said: “It’s been great seeing the young people working together.
“Their progress over the past six weeks has been tremendous, there’s a notable improvement in their communication skills from when they first started to their completion of the course. ”
Chairwoman of the council’s communities committee, Anne Stirling, added: “It’s clear this has been a success and not only did the young people gain insight into life as a firefighter, but they also gained leadership and communication skills.”
Peterhead and North Rattray councillor, Dianne Beagrie, said: “I’m delighted to be here to recognise the achievements of the young people and I wish them good luck for the future.”
Another group of young people, from Fraserburgh Academy, are also involved in the FraserDeen iniative and will be put to the test as they set out to complete the fire safety skills course themselves next month.
