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Avon Fire & Rescue Service, Children and Young People Team has partnered Weston College and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Job Centre, to deliver the Ignite Programme, a three-week initiative to support young people aged 18-24 who are out of employment and education. The programme focuses on unlocking their potential through practical training, employability skills, and real-world experiences.
The Ignite Programme provides participants essential skills, including job searching techniques, interview preparation, and mock interviews. Through station-based activities, young people gain hands-on experience that enhances their teamwork, communication, and leadership abilities. By promoting transferable skills, the programme equips participants with the confidence needed to pursue employment and further education opportunities.
“Participating in our second Ignite project with the DWP and Weston College has been an amazing journey. Seeing participants’ growth in confidence, communication, and teamwork has been inspiring. We eagerly anticipate the outcomes of the project and wish the participants all the best for their futures.”
Avon Fire & Rescue Service recognises the importance of mental health awareness. The programme promotes open discussions about mental well-being and provides strategies for resilience. By learning from firefighters who navigate challenging situations, participants see firsthand how to manage stress and maintain a positive mindset in demanding work environments.
A highlight of the initiative was a visit to the fire service control room, where participants observed decision-making under pressure.
Physical fitness also plays a crucial role in mental well-being, and the Ignite participants took part in a modified firefighter fitness test. Additionally, they received presentations to raise awareness in key safety areas, including water safety, road safety, and throw-line rescue techniques.
The programme concluded on 14 February with a final celebration day attended by representatives from North Somerset Council, the Mayor, and Weston-Super-Mare Fire Station crew. Participants showcased their newly acquired skills through a dam-building demonstration and presentations on their journey throughout the programme.
“On the first day, I stepped into the classroom to find a quiet, reserved group of learners. Fast forward to their presentation day at the fire station, and the transformation was remarkable, laughter filled the room! It was a truly rewarding sight and exactly what we set out to achieve. By the end of the course, learners had grown in confidence, stepped out of their comfort zones, and were ready to take their next steps toward employment or further education.”
The Ignite course exemplifies the power of collaboration in supporting the community, demonstrating how education, public services, and employment initiatives can come together to create a lasting impact.
Through the Ignite Programme, Avon Fire & Rescue Service is not only helping young people build brighter futures but also reinforcing the values of teamwork, resilience, and public safety. By investing in the next generation, the service continues to strengthen its connection with the community while inspiring confidence and ambition in those looking to take their next steps towards employment and education.