Borough Commander inspires next generation of Islington firefighters

London Fire Brigade may soon see a new influx of young firefighters-to-be, after Islington’s Borough Commander, Patrick Goulbourne, took time out of his busy schedule to inspire the next generation of first responders, at Holloway School.

 

Speaking at one of Islington Council’s ‘Apprenticeship Assemblies’, Borough Commander Goulbourne told a captivated audience of Year 11 students about London Fire Brigade’s rich range of careers opportunities, including its cadet scheme.  

 

He said: “You are never too young to think about a career as a firefighter and hopefully my talk inspired a few pupils to see it as a job for them.  

"Modern firefighting is about more than fighting fires, with numerous career paths from investigating fires to specialist rescue skills but also community work to stop fires breaking out in the first place.

"We want the Brigade to truly reflect the city that we serve and that means more women firefighters but also more applicants from London's diverse communities and cultures.”

 

Islington Council’s executive member for economic development, Cllr Asima Shaikh, said: “These Apprenticeship Assemblies are a fantastic opportunity to get our children and young people energised about pursuing their ambitions and getting the jobs they deserve. 

 

“For many school-leavers, apprenticeships and schemes like the Fire Cadets programme can help to provide that first firm step into work. 

 

“I am grateful to Commander Goulbourne, as well as our other community figureheads and employers, who give up their time to inspire our young people”. 

 

The Apprenticeship Assemblies are part of the council’s new ‘Careers Cluster’ project. The scheme, funded by the European Social Fund and in partnership with Westminster Kingsway City and Islington College, brings the college together with nine local schools and nearly 20 businesses and universities to deliver employer-led careers education for young people.

 

Interested in finding out more about apprenticeships? Please visit: www.islington.gov.uk/apprentices.