Newtown Fire Station celebrated the achievements of the latest cohort of Fire Cadets on April 24th with a Passing Out Parade.

The event highlighted the successful completion of the Fire Cadets Programme, aimed at fostering safer communities by educating young people on the importance of fire safety and prevention.

Fire Cadets learn crucial skills, such as identifying hazards, managing risks, and using firefighting equipment like hoses, ladders, and squad drills. They also actively participate in community events and are taught how to become positive and engaged members of their communities.

Upon completion of the two-year programme, Fire Cadets earn a nationally recognized Fire Cadet Award and an achievement certificate. The programme is an excellent opportunity for young people to have fun, make friends, gain qualifications, and develop transferable skills and confidence.

MAWWFRS Chief Fire Officer, Roger Thomas, who attended the parade, said,

"I'm delighted to be here at Newtown Station to recognize the achievements of our amazing cadets tonight. Their hard work and determination is inspiring, and I'm sure the skills and confidence they have learnt during this programme will not only help their development in future years, but will also keep our communities safer. I'd also like to thank our Fire Cadet Instructors for their continued support and helping these young people gain their qualification."

Fire Cadet Co-ordinator, Karen Mayze, expressed her pride in the group, saying,

"I'd like to give a massive congratulations to the Newtown Fire Cadets. I'm incredibly proud of them all, passing out and completing the Cadet programme and achieving their Bronze Award. They are community role models and inspirational young people."

The Fire Cadets Programme is open to young people aged between 13-16 years old. Recruitment for the Fire Cadet programme re-opens in June 2023. For more information, please visit the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service website.