A TOP team of rookie firefighters learned all about team building, problem-solving and health and safety as part of a course at Port Glasgow Community Fire Station.

Ten pupils from Notre Dame High School and Inverclyde Academy took part in the week-long Fire Skills course, which is run by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and funded by Inverclyde Council.

They learned vital skills then rounded off the week with a practical demonstration in front of representatives from their schools, their families, elected members from Inverclyde Council and other partner agencies.

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They were also given certificates to mark their participation by Provost Drew McKenzie.

(Image: George Munro)

He said: “It’s important that our young people are given access to a wide range of opportunities to learn new skills outside of the classroom.

“This is the second time this course has run this year after a long break due to Covid.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the event and it was clear the young people learned a lot from their week at Port Glasgow Community Fire Station.

“I’m sure the skills they’ve learned will stand them in good stead in the future.”

Councillor Elizabeth Robertson is chair of the Inverclyde Alliance Board, which brings together a range of organisations working in Inverclyde, including Scottish Fire and Rescue.

She said: “I’m delighted this course has given another group of young people the chance to learn these vital skills.

“This opportunity is one example of strong partnership working here in Inverclyde and I thank everyone in the council’s Community Learning and Development team who helped make this happen along with our partners in the SFRS.”

Area Commander Kevin Murphy is SFRS's local senior officer for East Renfrewshire, Renfrewshire and Inverclyde.

He said: “It’s a privilege to welcome young people into Port Glasgow Community Fire Station to take part in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s Fire Skills course.

“Our Fire Skills course gives young people an insight into what a firefighter’s role involves.

“The course also helps young people to learn valuable life-saving skills as well as building confidence which can help to support them in future employment.

“We congratulate all the young people who have taken part. They are a credit to themselves and their families.

“We are grateful to Inverclyde Council who funded the course and to our partners who supported the young people through their journey.”