Reception pupils at Wednesfield Technology Primary got a hands-on introduction to life as a firefighter when members of Fallings Park Fire Service visited the school. The children explored inside a fire engine, learned about the equipment used by firefighters and even had a go at using a fire hose.
The visit formed part of the Academy’s Excite, Explore, Excel (E3L) curriculum, a programme taught across primary schools within Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust. The curriculum is designed to help pupils make meaningful connections across subjects and understand how their classroom learning applies to the wider world.
As part of their current theme, Elephant Me, pupils explored the important roles people play within their local community and how they play a big part for their local area to help and support others.
During the session, firefighters explained their role and showed children the protective clothing and specialist equipment they use when responding to emergencies. Pupils were also given the chance to climb aboard a fire engine and use a fire hose, giving them practical insight into the valuable work of the emergency service.
School Principal, Claire Keeler, said: “Experiences like this give children something real to talk about and build their learning around. In Reception, those opportunities are particularly important because children are developing their language and understanding of the world through what they see, hear and experience. It was lovely to see the children’s curiosity take over as they met the firefighters, asked questions and began to make connections with what they’ve been learning in the classroom.”
The visit also introduced the children to the wider work of the West Midlands Fire Service, which provides emergency response, prevention and protection services across the region.
West Midlands Fire Service is the second-largest fire and rescue service in England, serving more than 2.9 million people across Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton.
The experience gave pupils an opportunity to build on their classroom learning through direct experience, while developing their understanding of the people and services that help keep their community safe.
The school thanked the Fallings Park Fire Service crew for giving their time and helping to create a memorable learning experience for the children.
