Fire Cadets

Life-changing opportunities for young people based on citizenship, community and you. New units launch 2026!

The logo of the UK Fire Cadets
A crew of fire cadets give a live demo of using a hose reel jet

Join the Fire Cadets for a unique opportunity to wear the uniform, take part in realistic fire and rescue service activities, and work closely with operational firefighters.

The Cadets are a national uniformed youth organisation, supported by the National Fire Chiefs Council and run by individual fire and rescue services throughout the UK.

We want to improve the life chances of young people by providing safe spaces and life-changing opportunities for personal and professional development across Cumbria.

You'll have fun and challenge yourself in an organisation shaped by young people and making a positive difference in our communities by increasing engagement and reducing risk and vulnerability.

We involve young people (aged 13 to 17) in decision making, give opportunities for social action and recognition of attainment, and provide an environment that promotes resilience, safer and strong communities, and inclusive and diverse membership.

You can find downloadable Membership Information, the UK Fire Cadets National Framework, and an Application Form at the bottom of this page.

 

Our values

  • Treat each other with fairness and respect
  • Act with integrity and honesty
  • Challenge prejudice and discrimination
  • Be responsible citizens
  • Commit to personal development
  • Actively seek the views of young people

I'm in. How do I apply?

We normally recruit annually and will try to delivery taster sessions prior to starting a new group. This gives young people an opportunity to decide if it is the right programme for them before committing to the full course. Alternatively, we are happy to arrange to meet potential recruits prior to a drill night to have an informal chat and even give you a chance to try out an activity. However, it is essential to contact us in advance so that we can arrange to meet you on arrival.

Click here to contact us
A Fire Cadet during a ladder drill

Frequently asked questions

Where is my nearest unit?

We currently have a Fire Cadets unit based in Workington, with plans to launch units in Barrow, Carlisle and Whitehaven from March 2026.

How old do I need to be?

The minimum age at enrolment is 13 years (although 12 years will be considered if you are in a Year 8 school group).

How much does it cost?

Fire Cadets is free to attend. All PPE, protective clothing / footwear and equipment is provided. After training you will be issued with cadet uniform for use on drill nights, community events and training sessions. We occasionally undertake fundraising activities, which in most cases covers the cost of off-site visits, trips, and a summer residential.

What will I do?

New cadets will receive a minimum of 12 weeks' training that covers all aspects of Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service's work, including:

  • Basic fire-fighting techniques
  • Hose and pump drills
  • Road awareness training and road traffic collision casualty extrication
  • Breathing apparatus search and rescue techniques
  • Ladder climbing
  • Community safety
  • Emergency life support (first aid)
  • Water safety and rescue techniques
  • Team working, communication and problem-solving skills

When all elements of training have been completed, cadets are invited to take part in a passing out parade and receive a certificate of recognition from the service.

When and where do the cadets meet?

Our weekly drill nights are held at the relevant station for your unit. Although we occasionally travel off station for visits and activities, you must be prepared to commit to travelling to the station for your drill nights. We meet on Thursday evenings, with standard sessions running from 5pm to 8pm.

How much time do I need to commit?

You only need to commit to the weekly three-hour session on Thursday evenings to complete all elements of basic training (this may take longer than 12 weeks, depending on station emergency responses).

What happens after my initial training?

After training, new recruits are given the opportunity to stay with us and join our squad of qualified cadets. They will be invited to join us on off-site visits and training events, community activities, developmental training sessions and residential opportunities. We have a structured career development route and, depending on your age, commitment, and personal aspirations, you can work towards the rank of Cadet Crew Manager, Watch Manager, Station Manager and ultimately peer mentor work, as a Cadet Training Instructor. All cadets wishing to stay with us will be given a personal development plan with a specific role. At age 18 you can join our pool of volunteer instructors and continue your involvement in cadets, helping us to train new cadet recruits.

What happens if I can’t do all the training drills?

We support every member of our cadet group to achieve more than they think is possible. Teamwork is a big part of fire cadets, and you will be fully supported by our instructors and developed cadets to complete all parts of the programme.

I don’t know anything about the service, can I still join?

Previous experience and specific skills are not needed; all we ask is that you are enthusiastic, willing to work as part of a team, and want to have fun while learning valuable community safety and life skills. While some cadets aspire to be firefighters, many simply want to have fun and learn something new. Many of the skills that you will develop as a cadet can be transferred to a range of careers.