(City of Red Deer)

By Josh Hall | @Vancan19

for students in grades 11 and 12

Red Deer Public Schools launches ‘Fire Academy’

Jan 28, 2025 | 12:42 PM

A new ‘Fire Academy’ will soon launch at Red Deer Public Schools, sparking opportunity for students in grades 11 and 12.

The academy will commence in the 2025-26 school year, in partnership with Red Deer Emergency Services. It will offer real-world, hands-on firefighting training and experience.

It will also give students high school credits.

“We’re thrilled to offer students this fantastic opportunity to learn from the professionals at the City of Red Deer Emergency Services,” said Dan Lower, Deputy Superintendent of Red Deer Public Schools.

“This partnership is vital to the program’s success. It not only provides our students with invaluable knowledge and hands-on experience, but also opens doors to future careers in firefighting.”

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Classes will take place at Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School, and each cadet will receive their own bunker gear and other equipment to ensure safety and authenticity.

The program is capped at 20 students per year, with tuition costing $2,000 for the year.

“This is an incredible opportunity for anyone interested in joining an in-demand, continually growing industry,” said Deputy Chief Tyler Pelke, Red Deer Emergency Services.

“In addition to the incredible financial value of the Fire Academy, this collaboration allows Red Deer youth to challenge themselves mentally and physically, build leadership skills, and gain first-hand scientific application of chemistry, biology and physics.”

Applications open in March, and an open house is happening at Fire Station #3 (100 Lees Street) on March 11 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Applications can be submitted until April 11.

More information about Red Deer Public’s Fire Academy is at rdpsd.ab.ca.