Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 17/06/2009 14:20

An initiative to give students on the two year national diploma Public Services course at Truro College first hand experience of the diverse work of a firefighter has been launched at Truro Community Fire Station.

Leaders of the course offered by Truro College have joined forces with Cornwall County Fire Brigade to offer the ten students experience of the day to day work undertaken by the fire service to support their course which is designed for those whose aim is towards technical trades or commission in the Armed Forces, or who aspire to higher ranks in the Emergency Services.

Chief Fire Officer Des Tidbury said: “Working in partnership with the Truro college public services course gives the brigade a great opportunity to raise the student’s awareness of the changing role of the fire service from its operational activities to the varied work being delivered within communities and highlights the diversity required from its potential recruits in order to sustain its developing role within the county.”

Charlotte Mackrill, course co-ordinator at Truro College said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the students to gain a hands on experience of the role of the firefighter, and talk to serving members of the brigade. The students are also gaining a greater awareness of the high standards and requirements for joining the Cornwall County Fire Brigade. They will also benefit greatly from the partnership and the opportunity to support the various community programmes within the 2nd year of the course.”

One the students commented: “It was a fantastic day and a great experience. Looking forward to participating further in the second year.”

Tim Cocks from Cornwall County Fire Brigade Community Support said: “The students benefited by participating in some physical activities such as hose running and wearing breathing apparatus, and by having an opportunity to develop an advocacy role within the service in the support and delivery of its community programmes alongside brigade personnel.”