APPRENTICE Reviewer, Jenny Tickle, from Warrington & Vale Royal College, was recently invited by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service to experience a day in the life of a Fire Service Apprentice.
Starting the day with community training, it was not long before Jenny was kitted up and whisked to Macclesfield fire station’s interactive training facility, where apprentice firefighter John Boote put her through her paces.
The first activity Jenny was invited to try was the confinement room: a pitch-black space designed to simulate the claustrophobic conditions that firefighters often have to battle against. Then, she entered a smoke-filled room where she was challenged to locate and retrieve two “casualties” with extremely limited visibility and a hose in hand! Finally, with John’s guidance, Jenny made it to the roof of the training building to test her climbing skills and tolerance for heights.
As part of her role, Jenny spends time at various fire stations in the area, offering her support and expert guidance to ensure apprentices are well on their way to developing the knowledge, skills and behaviour to successfully complete their apprenticeship. Through this role, Jenny has been invited to multiple exciting experiences with Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and is keen to share her appreciation for the close partnership they share. She said:
“I can’t thank Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service enough for the amazing experiences I have had with them so far. Professionally, days like this make such a difference, as I can really get to grips with the experiences of apprentices. On a personal level, I have always had huge respect for firefighters, but this experience has really solidified how much value this service has. Thank you to watch manager Phil Marke and your watch for the warm welcome and fantastic day!”
The college, its staff and students thank Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service for their continued support and the fantastic opportunities they have offered.
For anyone considering an exciting and fulfilling career with the Fire Service, keep your eyes peeled on the Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service website for vacancies and details on the application process. Alternatively, if you are looking for an exciting course that is fun, fast-paced and leads to a nationally recognised qualification, explore the military & emergency services courses on offer by visiting the college’s website: wvr.ac.uk/subject-areas/sport-military-emergency-services
