NSW RFS Acting Commissioner Rob Rogers has congratulated the recent students graduating from the NSW RFS Secondary School Cadet Program (SSCP), which has now reached a milestone of 10,000 graduates since the program’s inception in 2004.
The 2 August graduation at Camden Haven High School in the Mid Coast District coincides with this achievement, where 21 Year 9 and 10 students will be recognised for following the training and service ideals of the NSW RFS during a 10-week program.
NSW RFS Acting Commissioner Rogers said the Secondary School Cadet Program has done wonders with students across NSW and to recognise 10,000 students for committing to the ideals of the NSW RFS so far is a remarkable achievement.
“This program offers students the opportunity to learn new and valuable skills as they participate in interesting and challenging training that has numerous benefits for their study while also providing them with practical and valuable life skills,” Acting Commissioner Rogers said.
“Students who graduate from this program have developed strong leadership skills as well as the value of teamwork and taking the initiative, while also developing a sense of community responsibility and service.
“I congratulate the students who have successfully completed this program and the involved members from the NSW RFS for continuing it up to this important milestone and beyond.”
Acting Commissioner Rogers said the SSCP would continue to operate in NSW schools, with the number of participating students graduating from the program achieving record levels over the previous twelve-month period.
“The NSW RFS is committed to fostering and developing our youth so that the spirit of volunteering is passed on to future generations,” Acting Commissioner Rogers said.
“This program has proven its effectiveness and popularity among students, as it has grown from 60 students and five schools in its first year to over 50 programs and more than 800 students graduating each year.
The SSCP has diversified to include a variety of programs and delivery methods that include intensive four-day face-to-face training for home schooled students and programs for schools that cater to children with intellectual or physical disabilities.
Participating students have transitioned into ranking positions within brigades or into staff roles. Clarence Valley is an excellent example of this with two Deputy Captains and one Senior Deputy Captain all transitioning from their 2013 program.
“This is a significant milestone and each cadet should be extremely proud of the contribution they are making to their community.
“The commitment of our members in delivering the program should also be commended as the program allows students to transition into NSW RFS membership and strongly promotes the NSW RFS throughout the community.”
For more information please visit: www.nsw.gov.au
