Northholm Grammar School cadets celebrate graduation

Member for Hornsby Matt Kean, who attended the graduation ceremony at the school, said the program is the ideal way to introduce young people to the important role volunteer firefighter’s play within communities.

"These cadets have completed a nine week course that has given them skills which will last a lifetime,” Mr Kean 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 in this state.

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

NSW RFS District Manager Superintendent Mark Sugden said this is the eighth time Northholm Grammar 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 hope it continues as part of the school’s curriculum for years to come,” Superintendent Sugden said.

“In addition to our NSW RFS members, I would also like to extend a special thanks to the Principal, teachers and staff from Northholm Grammar School for helping to make this program such a success.”

Superintendent Sugden also paid tribute to the staff and volunteers from the Hornsby/Ku-ring-gai District who 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. Firefighters cannot do it alone,” Superintendent Sugden said.

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