Tackle is an employability program fully funded by National Lottery Community Fund, working with young people aged 12 - 16 in a school setting, to develop soft skills, such as leadership, teamwork, communication & an understanding of opportunities in further education and the workplace.
As part of the Tackle Programme, pupils are given the opportunity to attend a “Firefighter for a Day” experience, where they work alongside firefighters, take part in practical activities, and learn about teamwork and leadership.
Zion, who attended this session, typically presents as very quiet in school. Staff describe him as someone who rarely speaks in class and often struggles to communicate with both teachers and peers. In most school environments he is very quiet and rarely speaks, finding it difficult to express himself verbally or engage socially with others.
However, during the Firefighter for a Day experience we saw a completely different side to Zion.
From the moment the activities began, Zion became much more engaged and visibly comfortable in the new environment. While taking part in the practical tasks, he began speaking openly with staff and the firefighters, asking questions and responding confidently when spoken to. As the day progressed, he also started talking with his peers, telling them what to do, something that staff had rarely witnessed before.
It was particularly encouraging to see him joining conversations naturally, sharing ideas during team activities and supporting other pupils. His body language also changed throughout the day, as he appeared more relaxed, involved, and willing to participate.
For staff observing the group, this was a powerful and rewarding moment. Seeing a pupil who is usually silent in school communicating so openly, demonstrated how alternative learning environments and hands-on experiences can help young people feel safe, confident, and able to express themselves.
Zion's teacher said: "Zion has really come out of himself. He was always very quiet and never participated in group activities, he wasn’t very confident talking to people. Taking part in the project has made him engage more and he gets involved in discussions with his peers. He has come out of his shell. He is attending school more often and engaging in classes more. He is happy to answer questions and is far more chatty."
Mel from OitC said: "During a visit to the fire station, I saw a completely different side of Zion, he engaged, he was confident, and leading his peers. In that moment, he truly came out of his shell, this just shows how the Tackle programme and the right environment can bring out confidence and participation in learners."
Zion said: "It is fun, it is good for teamwork!"
This experience highlighted the importance of providing opportunities outside the traditional classroom setting. In a different environment, where learning was practical, interactive, and team-based, the pupil was able to build confidence, develop communication skills, and connect with others.
Experiences like this reinforce the value of the Tackle Start Programme. It goes to show that when young people are placed in supportive and engaging environments, they can surprise themselves and others with what they are capable of.
