Bridgwater & Taunton College’s 999 Academy students have received new fire kit to wear during training sessions, kindly supplied by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (DSFRS).

The 999 Academy is one of many popular extra-curricular activities offered by BTC, providing students with the opportunity to pursue additional aspirations alongside their main qualifications. Run in partnership with DSFRS, South Western Ambulance Service and Avon and Somerset Police, the 999 Academy enables students interested in careers in the uniformed protective services to gain relevant experience and skills.

The students are now looking forward to wearing their kit while learning skills related to firefighting. They will also be taught by frontline police officers from Avon and Somerset Police and paramedics from South Western Ambulance Service. This year’s programme will run until June 2022, during which time the students will take part in weekly sessions delivered at various locations across Bridgwater, such as Express Park Police Centre and Salmon Parade Fire Station.

Ruth Burrows, the Manager of Bridgwater 999 Academy, said

We are extremely grateful for the support from the emergency services, especially at a time when they are under extreme pressure due to the ongoing pandemic. The students’ commitment is exciting as they embark on this unique opportunity. I am also absolutely delighted that the delivery team this year includes previous Bridgwater 999 Academy students Police Constable Chris Lee and paramedics Star Hancock and Ellis Pearce. Also supporting the DSFRS liaison are FF Owen Cheffey and FF Lili Ibbotson. They are all former Bridgwater and Taunton Uniformed Public Services students who were also enrolled on the 999 Academy and agree that being part of the academy helped them pursue their chosen careers.

Applications for the 2022/23 999 Academy will be open to all students enrolled at Bridgwater and Taunton College from May 2022.

For more information about BTC Academies and other extra-curricular activities, visit the Student Life pages. If you would like more information about studying at Bridgwater & Taunton College, please contact our Information, Advice & Guidance team on 01278 441234.