YOUNGSTERS learned skills associated with firefighters to help them with their studies and boost their confidence.

A dozen Year Seven and Eight students from Thomas Lord Audley School took part in the Firebreak course based at Wivenhoe Fire Station.

The group took part in workshops designed to help them develop respect for others, self-esteem, communication and teamwork.

Activities such as use of hoses, water safety, first aid, using ladders were on the agenda, while the youngsters were also tasked with delving into a darkened room to save a casualty.

Participants were handed a certificate of achievement and attended a passing out ceremony at the end of the week.

Lead instructor Mark Crouch said: "The students who participated in Firebreak behaved very well and demonstrated great maturity throughout the course.

"They displayed great enthusiasm and teamwork and all the instructors were impressed by their conduct throughout the week.

"They were excellent ambassadors for The Thomas Lord Audley School."

The course is funded by Colchester Garrison and the Army Covenant Fund with the criteria for entry for schools being that they are a feeder school for military families.