FEMALE students faced the heat on Tuesday, 11 November as they took part in the Girls on Fire program, a hands-on experience teaching real-life firefighting skills.
An initiative of the NSW Government’s Educational Pathways Program, which seeks to improve education and career outcomes for young people, the program aims to empower young women to step out of their comfort zones, gain practical emergency and life skills and explore career pathways in fire and emergency services.
The one-day workshop for year 9 to 12 students was delivered with the support of the State Emergency Service, Rural Fire Service (RFS) and other emergency services.
Tess Coleman, a Year 9 student at Dungog High School, said the course helped her build “useful skills” for post-school life.
“I really enjoyed building confidence, learning new skills, and learning fire-fighting skills through hands-on activities and team challenges,” she said.
“After school, I want to become an electrician, and I found this program really helpful for building confidence and teamwork skills that will help in any career.”
Sophie Watkins, from Year 8 at Dungog High, said the program was “fun and engaging”.
“We learnt how to use a fire blanket, extinguisher and hose, got to sit in the fire trucks and turn on the sirens, and navigated each other around to a certain spot using radios.
“I think my favourite part was when we got to experience what it’s like to wear a smoke mask in a burning house; we couldn’t see anything and had to feel around for the walls with our hands.
“I’ve always been interested in the Defence force and emergency services, and after this program I may consider volunteering for the RFS.
“I thought I would learn a lot, and it would be a great experience, and I’m glad I did because we learnt many important life skills and had lots of fun.”
Natalie Hilder from the Educational Pathways Program said programs like Girls on Fire give students real-world experiences that build confidence, teamwork, and career awareness.
“They help young people discover their strengths and see how their learning connects to future opportunities,” she said.
“The Educational Pathways Program aims to create opportunities and exposure for students by connecting schools with industry and training partners.
“It helps students explore different vocational and career options, discover their individual ‘spark’, and develop the skills and knowledge needed for life after school.”
Girls on Fire trainer and founder Bronnie Mackintosh said the program inspires young people from diverse backgrounds to discover their strengths through hands-on fire and emergency service experiences.
“Our programs spark confidence, teamwork, and resilience – creating leaders who are ready to protect and uplift their communities.
“Through fire camps, school programs, and community partnerships, we bring young people and emergency services together in a safe, inclusive environment.
“Participants learn real-world skills, build leadership, and connect with mentors from across the fire and emergency sector.”
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