High school students thinking about a career as a first responder can gain experience at a new summer school program in the Foothills.
The First Responder Program is being offered by Foothills School Division (FSD) for the first time and is available to students who have completed grades 10 through 12.
Rob Gallacher, principal at FSD Summer School, said the program builds leadership skills, resilience and compassion.
“This program is a unique opportunity for students to explore various aspects of first responder services and learn from a highly qualified and experienced instructor,” Gallacher said.
The program, designed and taught by a certified teacher and firefighter, will cover topics like first aid and CPR, workplace safety, communication skills, mental health, and professional standards and ethics for first responders.
The course will go beyond basic first aid concepts, with hands-on activities, including multiple-casualty incidents and confined space exercises, and will build students’ understanding of critical incident stress management.
“I have seen first-hand the impact that this program has on students' learning, confidence and future goals,” said instructor Bryan Mouland.
Students who complete the program will earn high school credits and certification in standard first aid and more, FSD said.
The First Responder Program runs from July 2 to 29 and the registration deadline is May 31.
