Maclean High School cadet firefighters celebrate graduation

Superintendent Watts said the program is the ideal way to introduce young people to the important role volunteer firefighters play within communities.

"The cadets have completed a 20 week course that has provided them with skills and knowledge which will last a lifetime,” Superintendent Watts said.

“As well as examining fire behaviour, the students have been taught essential fire safety techniques and gained an appreciation of the work our emergency services do every day across the state.

"The cadet program also offers students the opportunity to experience firsthand the commitment and camaraderie that comes with volunteering.”

Superintendent Watts said this is the fourth time Maclean High School has offered the NSW RFS Secondary School Cadet Program to its students.

“It’s great to see genuine enthusiasm for this important community based program and I hope it will continue to be part of the curriculum for many years to come,” Superintendent Watts said.

“In addition to our NSW RFS members, I would also like to extend a special thanks to the principal and staff from Maclean High School, as well as the eight cadet mentors who helped to make this program such a success.”

Superintendent Watts also paid tribute to the volunteers and staff from the Clarence Valley District that facilitated the course.

"NSW RFS members thoroughly enjoy working closely with schools and communities to ensure that everyone is as well prepared as possible for the very real threat of fire,” Superintendent Watts said.

“The Service is proud to pass on the ideals of community service, dedication and teamwork to the next generation.”