A growing number of young people have taken part in a training course held at Fire Stations this year, equipping them with vital life skills for the future.
The partnership between the Fire Service’s Prevention Team and Northampton Saints Foundation is in its second year now with 30 16–19-year-olds taking part.
So far this year, the course has taken place at three stations – including Wellingborough and Mereway – with the final cohort gearing up to pass out in Corby on May 5 in 2026.
The aim of the ARC Course (Action, Reaction, Consequence) is to give learners from Northampton Saints Foundation’s college programme insight to the Service while improving personal development and supporting teens with job readiness to reduce the risk of NEET (not in education, employment, or training).
Throughout the four-day course, students are taught educational sessions on road safety advice – through Northamptonshire Safer Roads Alliance – and water safety training.
They also take part in practical fire training exercises to help improve communication, resilience and teamwork – such as drills including using hoses, climbing ladders, and learn about first aid bleed kits.
Craig Phillips, Head of Employability and Skills at Northampton Saints Foundation, said: “As a Foundation, we are thankful for the partnership we have with Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service.
“This programme is part of a bigger project giving young people on our college courses real and valuable insight into the Service while tackling key societal topics.
“Our mission is to help their future development, employability skills and improve positive pathways to work.”
The course also supports the completion of mandatory work experience hours embedded in the study programme.
Nikki Watson, Chief Fire Officer, said: “Through educational activities, our early intervention courses aim to teach confidence, resilience and empower young people.
“We really value the growing partnership we’ve developed with the Northampton Saints Foundation and it’s a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase a positive view of the whole Service, including an awareness of the different job roles we can offer, other than firefighting.
“It’s brilliant to see young people not only enjoying the experience but also learning, improving safety knowledge, and to having the opportunity to increase confidence and teamwork skills.”
