Ayrshire College Partners with Scottish Fire and Rescue to Deliver FireSkills Employability Awards
Ayrshire College is delighted to announce its new role as the accrediting body for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) FireSkills course, a programme designed to equip hundreds of young people across Scotland with crucial life and employability skills.
The FireSkills Course, aimed at young people aged 12-18, focuses on developing essential abilities such as teamwork, leadership, communication, and problem-solving, alongside practical skills like first aid and CPR. Based on real firefighter drills, the programme provides participants with hands-on experience that not only teaches life-saving techniques but also helps prepare them for future education and employment opportunities.
As the accrediting body, Ayrshire College will award participants with an SCQF Level 4 Employability Award, recognising the skills they have gained throughout the course. This award is part of the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) and will help learners build a portfolio of achievements to support their personal and professional development.
Angela Cox, Principal and Chief Executive of Ayrshire College, commented:
"We are thrilled to partner with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to offer accreditation for the FireSkills Employability Awards. This programme not only equips young people with vital life-saving skills but also helps them build the confidence and abilities they need to succeed. At Ayrshire College, we are committed to providing opportunities that prepare young people to thrive in a rapidly changing world."
The partnership was officially launched at a ceremony on 27th September 2024 at Kilmarnock Community Fire Station, where 10 young people who successfully completed the course were awarded certificates. During the ceremony, participants showcased their skills in a series of fire drills, watched by family members, local officials, and community leaders, including Provost Jim Todd and Councillor Graham Barton.
Looking ahead, the programme is set to benefit around 400 young people annually across Scotland. By offering this accredited course, Ayrshire College and SFRS are helping participants build a solid foundation for future opportunities in further education, training, and employment.
Area Commander Ian McMeekin, SFRS Local Senior Officer for Ayrshire, praised the partnership:
"This collaboration with Ayrshire College reflects our shared commitment to empowering young people. The FireSkills course teaches vital life-saving skills and helps boost participants’ confidence and readiness for the future."
Ayrshire College remains committed to fostering partnerships that provide young people with the tools and support they need to succeed, both within their communities and in the broader world of work.
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