Springwood High School cadets celebrate graduation

Mr Pinson said the cadet program is the ideal way to introduce young people to the important role volunteer firefighters play in protecting communities from fire.

"The cadets have completed a 10 week course which has provided them with skills and knowledge that will last a lifetime,” Mr Pinson said.

“As well as examining fire behaviour and firefighting skills, 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.”

Mr Pinson thanked Springwood High School for offering the NSW RFS Secondary School Cadet Program to its students.

“It is fantastic that there is genuine enthusiasm for this important community based program and I hope it will continue to be part of Springwood High School’s curriculum for many years to come,” Mr Pinson said.

Mr Pinson also paid tribute to the cadet trainers and Winmalee and Valley Heights Rural Fire Brigade volunteers, along with staff from the Blue Mountains District, who facilitated the course.

“In addition to our NSW RFS members, I would also like to extend a special thanks to the principal and staff from Springwood High School for helping to make this program such a success,” Mr Pinson said.

"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.

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