Securitas UK hosts annual Fire Cadets Weekend with London Fire Brigade

Now in its ninth year, the 2026 event witnessed 16 candidates take part in three days of practical training at Capita’s Fire Service College in Moreton-in-Marsh, supported by representatives from Securitas UK and the London Fire Brigade.

The Firefighting Weekend afforded participants the opportunity to put their existing training into practice through a range of challenging scenarios designed to develop their practical skills, teamwork and confidence.

Across the programme, participants took part in a varied series of practical exercises, including hose and ladder drills and breathing apparatus training.

They were also faced with simulated emergency scenarios, including a road traffic accident and a Fish and Chip Shop fire, requiring them to draw on their training and work together in more realistic and challenging situations.

The 2026 Firefighting Weekend concluded with an awards ceremony recognising the achievements and hard work of the participating Fire Cadets.

Supporting the next generation

The annual Firefighting Weekend forms part of Securitas UK’s long-standing relationship with the London Fire Brigade and provides Fire Cadets with an opportunity to experience realistic firefighting scenarios in a controlled training environment.

Paul Rankin, director of fire and aviation at Securitas UK, explained: “It has been incredibly inspiring to see what these young Fire Cadets have achieved over the course of the Firefighting Weekend. The confidence, teamwork and determination they’ve demonstrated should make them all incredibly proud.”

Rankin continued: “At Securitas, we’re fully committed to creating positive impacts in the communities we serve. That’s why our partnership with the London Fire Brigade and its Firefighting Weekend for Fire Cadets is so important. This year marks nine years of the business supporting this fantastic programme and helping young people to develop valuable skills, build confidence and explore future opportunities.”

Further, Rankin observed: “Experiences like this can be truly life-changing. Whether these Fire Cadets go on to begin careers in the Emergency Services or choose a different path, the skills and experiences they’ve gained here will stay with them for years to come. Congratulations to every Fire Cadet who has taken part and grateful thanks to everyone who has helped to make the 2026 Firefighting Weekend such a tremendous success.”

Mark Lester, operations director at Capita’s Fire Service College, observed: “At Capita’s Fire Service College, we’re proud to work alongside Securitas UK and the London Fire Brigade in supporting Fire Cadets and the vital role they play in the future of our sector. Through realistic training environments, expert instruction and immersive experiences, we support young people by providing a genuine insight into the Fire and Rescue Service, inspiring the next generation of Emergency Services professionals and community leaders.”

Fire Cadets Programme

London Fire Brigade’s Fire Cadets Programme is open to youngsters aged from 13 to 17, affording them the opportunity to learn firefighting and life skills, while in parallel developing their confidence, leadership and teamwork.

More than 3,500 young people have completed the Fire Cadets Programme since it began back in 2013, with upwards of 150 former Fire Cadets going on to secure employment with the London Fire Brigade.

Securitas UK works alongside the London Fire Brigade to give Fire Cadets the opportunity to build on their training and experience some of the challenges faced by operational firefighters.