A group of young people from Mid and West Wales were honoured at a special Pass Out Parade on Monday, June 16, marking the successful completion of their two-year Fire Cadets programme.

The ceremony, held at Abercrave Fire Station, celebrated the achievements of the latest cohort of Fire Cadets – a national uniformed youth initiative supported by the National Fire Chiefs Council and delivered locally by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

The aim of the Fire Cadets programme is to create safer communities by developing young people’s knowledge and skills related to the Fire and Rescue Service, while raising awareness of fire safety in a fun, safe, and supportive environment.

Over the last two-years these dedicated young people have learnt a wide range of valuable skills and techniques through Fire Station ground training and education in the classroom. The Cadets have gained a Fire Cadets qualification and were presented with a certificate from Station Manager, Mark Ayling.

Fire Cadets Co-ordinator Karen Mayze said: “It was a proud moment for the Abercrave Fire Cadets class of 2025 as they passed out in front of their families and the local community. They have shown incredible dedication, teamwork, and growth throughout their time on the cadet programme. They leave the programme as confident, capable, and inspiring young individuals. Congratulations to you all.”

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is now welcoming applications for its Fire Cadets programme at fire stations across the service area.

Open to young people aged 13 to 16, the scheme offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience of life in the Fire and Rescue Service. As well as learning practical firefighting skills, cadets develop confidence, teamwork, and essential life skills.