10 young people from St. Mary's have successfully completed an intensive lifesaver and rescue course held at Oldham Sports Centre.
The Bronze Medallion Award took place over the weekend of the 13th and 14th of November and was attended by 10 young people aged between 13 and 16. After a long hard day on Saturday the young trainees were back again on Sunday to continue and finish the course at 5pm. The youngsters, who all attend St. Mary's Youth Inclusion Project at Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale, were successful in applying for funding to Kerrching. The funding enabled 10 young people to complete the Bronze Medallion lifesavers course.
Each trainee had to demonstrate to assessors all that they had learned whilst on the course. This included CPR, how to apply a bandage, safely getting in the water, showing rescue techniques on a mannequin and various rescue skills using ropes and other aids available to them.
All the young people passed with flying colours and said that they loved being part of this project. It has helped them gain confidence and communication skills as a result of working as part of a team. Robyn aged 16 said, "It was really hard work but I loved learning different skills and thought Paul was great at explaining things so we could understand".
Paul Trainer of Bronze Medallion said, "It was a massive achievement for all of the young people who completed the course. The bronze medallion is a nationally recognised qualification which is a stepping stone for employment within the leisure industry and involves both water based rescue techniques and first aid. It required commitment and dedication from the candidates and they should be very proud of themselves."
Becci West, YIP Manager from Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale, added: "The young people worked very hard to achieve this accreditation, overcoming many personal barriers. A great achievement, all should be very proud." This training has also contributed 12 hours towards their Lifeguarding qualification which they can take when they reach 16 years of age.
