FIREFIGHTERS are often looked up to by youngsters for their bravery and life-saving actions.

Pupils from Ysgol Emrys Ap Iwan in Abergele took part in a course at Abergele Fire Station on February 15 and learned that building relationships and having a positive role in their community is just as important in the job.

The Phoenix Project is a course designed by North Wales Fire and Rescue Service (NWFRS) to encourage young people towards productive and worthwhile activities that will help them make friends and find employment.

Pam Roberts, Phoenix coordinator, said the course promotes "respect, communication and trust" among young people which will benefit them in future. She said: "The fire and rescue service has a powerful draw for young people, which gives us the opportunity to try and influence behaviour.

“The Phoenix Project offers a unique experience to build on qualities we as a Service work towards such as respect, communication and trust.

“The week has involved a blend of classroom learning where the youngsters were taught consequences of actions, then drill yard activity where we promote working together as a team, assessing risk and adhering to instructions."

Skills learnt during the week are then demonstrated at a ceremony of achievement, attended by NWFRS's principal officer, fire authority members, parents, guardians and staff from the school.

Ms Roberts continued: “The aim of the course is to assist the youngsters in becoming more motivated and positive about themselves, which in turn has the effect of making them better citizens.

"We are hoping that these young people will feel that they have gained something positive from the Phoenix project and feel that it will be of benefit to them in the future.”