BBC TV has captured Loughborough College students and staff facing a real life fire fighting challenge (watch the footage below).
A pioneering partnership saw Leicestershire Fire and Rescue join forces with the College to give 16-18 year olds on the Uniformed Public Services course the chance to take on heights, enclosed spaces and a casualty evacuation in a recreation of the entry level test given to potential recruits.
Loughborough College Public Services lecturer Shaun Hession spent 25 years in the fire service and told BBC East Midlands Today exactly what the students were about to face:
“They are going to have to work hard, they are going to get sweaty, they’re going to be shattered and they’re going to be pushed to the limit.”
I am not a fan of ladders or heights but I threw myself into it and it was really enjoyable,” admitted Public Services student Josh Millward: “ I want to be a fire fighter and it showed me what I will need to do and where I need to improve.”
And it wasn’t only the students who were challenged. College Economics lecturer Jasmin Davy admitted she had been apprehensive about the confined space simulation, which involves wearing a mask to block sight and maneouvering through a small metal enclosure: “When I heard what it was, I didn’t like the sound of it but it was really interesting to have to rely on my other senses and I am really proud of myself and glad I did it.” Care and public services manager Bernadette Barker agreed: “Before I did it I was absolutely petrified but afterwards I was quite elated really.”
“This is giving the opportunity to get a taster of what to expect if you want to join the fire service. It’s about more than fitness, it’s about having to think on your feet,” added LFRS firefighter Craig Hallam.
Pictured: Loughborough College Uniformed Public Services lecturer Shaun Hession talks to BBC TV during the pioneering partnership event with Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service