YOUNGSTERS blazed a trail when they completed a course to help guide their futures.

Five young people successfully completed the first of two pilot schemes run by Dorset Fire and Rescue Service in partnership with Jobcentre Plus.

The course, based on the Safer People and Responsible Communities (SPARC) programme, was based at Dorchester fire station.

Those taking part were David Miller, Alan Tiller, Ryan McBride, Jake Tissington and Gavin Maskell-Smith. The group, aged between 18 and 24, learned basic firefighting skills, participated in team building activities and gained transferable skills for the work place.

Their passing out parade was attended by a host of VIPs including Chief Fire Officer Darran Gunter, Lord Lieutenant’s representative Alan Frost and High Sheriff of Dorset Catriona Payne.

Education officer for Dorset Fire and Rescue Service Rosemary Locock said: “The course, which takes place one day a week for seven weeks, has allowed these young people to improve their communication and confidence skills and raise their self-esteem.”

She added: “The project is delivered by specially trained firefighters who encourage the young people to practice search and rescue techniques and assist in the recovery of a casualty from a smoke filled building.

“The aim is to take the young person outside their comfort zone and boost their self-belief through achievement.

“To do this they need to be able to demonstrate good communication skills, team work and leadership. All these activities can be related and transferred to the working environment.”

Andy Cullen, of Jobcentre Plus in Dorset, said: “We’re glad to have worked with Dorset Fire and Rescue Service to give young jobseekers the opportunity to be part of such an innovative programme.”

The programme, which is AQA accredited, is designed to provide challenges to enhance communication skills, encourage teamwork and raise achievement levels.