Alumnus Inspires Students with Firefighting Career

We were delighted to welcome back Graham, who attended The Derby from 1986 to 1991. Now a dedicated firefighter for Bury Fire Service, Graham returned to school with several colleagues to share fascinating insights into their careers and the vital work they do to keep communities safe.

During the visit, students had the opportunity to ask questions and even experience what it’s like to step into a firefighter’s uniform. Graham and his colleagues gave the students an unforgettable, hands-on learning experience that brought the world of emergency services to life.

Moreover, students learnt a range of important fire safety tips to help them stay safe at home. They were reminded to have at least one working smoke alarm on each floor of their house and to call the fire brigade if they need a new alarm installed. The team also highlighted the dangers of charging phones in bedrooms overnight, as faulty chargers can be a fire risk.

Students were taught that if there is any sign of smoke, they should get out, stay out, and call 999. If their exit is blocked and they become trapped, they should move into one room and tell the operator exactly which room they are in and how many people are with them. This information is transmitted directly to firefighters through their communication system, helping them locate anyone inside more quickly. Students also discovered that in the event of a building fire, three fire engines are automatically deployed; one from Bury, with additional support from Whitefield and Ramsbottom stations.

The team emphasised the importance of not wasting the fire service’s time and shared that in an emergency, shouting “fire” from a window can attract attention and prompt a faster response from people nearby.

A huge thank you to Graham and the team for giving their time to inspire our students and for demonstrating what courage, teamwork, and community spirit truly look like in action.