Nine young people have gained qualifications, new skills and help to get back into employment thanks to a course ran by Cleveland Fire Brigade. The Prince's Trust's 12 week programme is designed to engage young people, helping to develop key skills such as leadership, team working, problem solving and discipline as well as providing an insight into community safety and citizenship. People are referred to the course through local organisations such as Connexions, Job Centre Plus and Youth Intervention Services. 

During the 12 weeks the 16-25 year olds learnt about team building whilst on a residential course in Carlton Lodge doing outdoor activities such as gorge walking and rock climbing for a week. They then spent time at the Brigade's Learning and Development Centre being taught how to use the hose reels and search and rescue skills in a specially designed smoke house.  

They were also set with various tasks, one of which was a community project where they renovated a room for Redcar Gymnastics Club into an area for members to take a break. They also took part in a team challenge where they assisted carers at St John's Ambulance Day Care Centre for two weeks.  

Les Jones, Head of Community Safety said: "This course aims to make a difference to the lives of some of the young people in our area and we are fortunate enough to have a great working relationship with both the Prince's Trust and Stockton Riverside College who support the programme.  

"As well as all the group activities, everyone on the course got help writing their CV's and learning interview techniques. They also had work placements which were tailored to individual's needs. These have resulted in some of the team getting apprenticeships whilst others have continued their work placement and waiting for a job to come available. The course culminated in a formal presentation where they were each awarded with a qualification in City and Guilds and Key Skills. 

"This was the 20th course we have run and are really pleased with its success. This is not only thanks to the people who work on the course and those that take part in it, but the many local organisations who help throughout the 12 weeks such as those who provided the students with valuable work experience." 

 

Posted: 15.30pm, 20.04.11, rachael.haydon@pavpub.com