Eight teenagers from Whitebridge High School have completed a new, hands on, NSW State Emergency Service Youth Program at the NSW SES City of Newcastle Unit.
The 11-week course includes basic skills all NSW SES Volunteers need like starting a generator, using pumps, sand bagging, repairing roofs and CPR.
"It's a hands-on program," says NSW SES City of Newcastle Local Commander, Jim McArthur. "The aim is to safely teach the students some practical SES skills."
"The students even got up on the training roof section in our yard during the last training session. They were in harnesses, and in no danger, but all of them really appreciated the experience."
The teens, aged 14 - 17 year, came to the City of Newcastle Unit after school. Every Wednesday they did two hours of basic training with NSW SES volunteer trainers.
"All our trainers are extremely experienced and have Working with Children clearances," says Jim McArthur. "The students did the session and were gone before regular volunteers arrived for our weekly training night."
"The parents told me their kids came home raving about the skills they'd learnt. They really loved it. I was very proud of the maturity these students demonstrated and the competent way they completed the tasks."
