Firefly Challenge

A group of Year 10 pupils from Saint Paul’s Catholic High School in Wythenshawe enjoyed taking part in a Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service project called “Firefly”. The aim is to educate the youngsters about fire safety in their homes and communities. It is also aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour, hoax calls and abuse towards Firefighters.

The course offers young people an energetic physical challenge and the chance to learn skills in firefighting, home safety awareness, first aid, team building, communication and personal development. The pupils also had the opportunity to learn practical fire service skills, use fire service equipment and be part of a team. They also carried emergency life support skills during ‘Heart Start’ training.

Firefly is an accredited five day course based at a working fire station and is run by firefighters. On completion of the course, the attendees participated in a passing out parade and received a portfolio of achievement which including accreditations, photographic evidence, and certificates of attendance and life skills.

“The pupils had a very exciting and inspiring time,” commented Claire Le Marquand, the Connexions Adviser at Saint Paul’s who helped organise the project. “The course instills life skills and values and promotes team spirit whilst, at the same time, developing leadership and communication skills.”

“The course provides a valuable opportunity for our pupils to focus on fire safety and the dangers of anti-social behavior such as non-accidental fires and malicious hoax phone calls,” said Head Teacher, Wiktor Daron. “It gives them some important time where they are able to work together as a team and reflect upon that team working.”