Register Now for the 2026 Junior Firefighter Program
Applications Open for 2026 Program
Coquitlam Fire/Rescue and School District No. 43 are now accepting applications for their 2026 program, taking place the first week of spring break, March 13 – 20.
Students in grades 11 and 12 are encouraged to review the online application requirements and register if they are interested. Program details and a video from the 2025 program are viewable below.
Applying to the Program - Deadline: December 5
Part 1: Online Application Form - this part 1 form is restricted to students and staff with School District credentials.
Details on the application process are described in the online application form/package, and in addition to the in-depth application form, prospective students will also need to participate in a personal interview and a fitness test to ensure they meet academic and physical requirements.
- Deadline: The application period closes at 3 p.m. on December 5, 2025.
- Internal Application Review: December 6, 2025 to January 6,2026
- Interviews: January 19, 20 and 21, 2026
- 2026 Program: March 13 – 20
Background
Coquitlam Fire/Rescue, in partnership with School District Number 43, held their inaugural Junior Firefighter Program during spring break in 2019 with students from grades 11 and 12 learning what it takes to become a firefighter.
By the end of the program, the 12 participants had gained a greater understanding of the job and several expressed an interest in pursuing a firefighting career. Due to the pilot program’s success and continued interest from students, Coquitlam Fire/Rescue and School District Number 43 have continued with the program.
Including 2025's contingent who participated, there are 82 youth who have successfully completed the program since it began.
Training Program
The hands-on program gives youth who are considering their career options a close-up look at the profession of firefighting, including participating in training exercises and experiencing the community goodwill, pride, excitement and camaraderie that come with the job.
Program Highlights
Training for the junior program is a condensed version of the eight-week firefighter basic training program and includes:
- Aerial experience
- Auto extrication
- Basic first aid as well as CPR / AED (defibrillator)
- Fire extinguishers
- Fire ground drills
- High angle equipment and rappelling
- Hose and nozzle skills
- Public service component
- Vehicle and equipment familiarization