Level 3 Joinery apprentices have recently completed an exciting real-world project in partnership with West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS). Over a three-week period, the apprentices were tasked with refitting the smokehouse at King Cross Fire Station in Halifax – a vital facility used for firefighter training.

A smokehouse is a purpose-built training environment that replicates the layout and conditions of a residential building. It allows firefighters to safely practice search and rescue techniques in low-visibility, smoke-filled conditions. By simulating realistic fire scenarios, the smokehouse helps crews develop essential skills in navigation, communication and teamwork when responding to life-threatening emergencies.

Building on skills through partnerships

The project involved the construction and installation of new internal structures designed to mimic the layout of rooms found in a typical property. The apprentices installed fireproof doors and used OSB boarding, a type of industry-standard engineering panel, to build the framework, ensuring durability and safety throughout the facility.

The installation provided apprentices with invaluable hands-on experience, applying the skills and techniques they have learned in college on a live construction site.

Caitlin, a Joinery apprentice at the College, said: “I really enjoy being on site and doing bespoke projects like this as part of my studies. It also gives me a chance to improve my people skills as well as doing joinery work as I am working for clients on a professional level.”

Together Housing, a Halifax-based Housing Association, also played an important role in the project by supporting students during the installation of the fire doors.

Happy Firefighters!

Spencer Masters, Crew Commander at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, led the initiative. He said: “We decided to upgrade the smokehouse in King Cross because it plays a vital role in providing effective training for firefighters. Over time, the facility had become outdated and was no longer meeting the standards needed to support modern training practices.”

Upgrading it has ensured that our crew can train safely and effectively in realistic conditions, helping them to develop and maintain the operational skills required to respond to real-life incidents. The students have been a huge asset in helping our vision for a work space come to life. We look forward to using it and working with Calderdale College students on other projects in the future.”

Construct your future career at College

Calderdale College has a strong commitment to providing students with authentic, project-based learning opportunities that connect classroom learning with real work set by local-employers.

This ensures that students not only gain technical expertise but also develop teamwork, problem-solving and communication skills that prepare them for successful careers in the construction industry.

Are you interested in pursuing a career in Joinery? Discover our trades apprenticeships and apply now!