The summer sun may have warmed the fields, but it was the fire crews from Slade Station — White Watch led by Paul Sellers and Red Watch led by Shaun Lewis — who truly ignited the hearts of Leys CDI’s young participants in the first week of its dynamic Summer Youth Courses.
With over eighty children supported, the week unfolded as a vibrant buzz of activities, nourishment, and teamwork. Each child was offered warm meals, fresh fruit, and refreshing drinks, alongside a packed programme featuring sports, swimming at the local leisure centre, arts and crafts, brain games, and the hilariously strategic spaghetti and marshmallow tower challenge. Every moment reinforced Leys CDI’s commitment to fun, enrichment, and inclusion.
But what made this first week truly unforgettable was the presence of real-life superheroes. Despite a water ban preventing the use of hoses, the disappointment was drowned out by awe as children explored intricate fire engine gadgets, tested the siren, and sat in the crew carriage — hosted with warmth and humour by Slade’s finest. These visits culminated in points awarded to summer teams — representing six vibrant nations — not just for games, but points were also scored for compassion, effort, respect, and team spirit.
During intimate Q&A sessions, juniors quizzed the crews on everything from their motivation to become firefighters to how they cope with emotionally challenging events. One brave question — “How much do you earn?” — even sparked laughter and honest insight. The most touching aspect being, that the Red crew arrived straight from a memorial tribute to fallen colleague Martyn Sadler, whose memory stood as a silent inspiration to everyone present.
“Not all superheroes wear capes” became a living truth for the children, who found new heroes in those who serve not just with courage, but with kindness. – ‘Thank you, guys, for everything’
With three more weeks to go, the excitement is far from over. Upcoming activities, in week two, include a tour of Oxford United FC, another dip at the leisure centre, and a spirited intergenerational bowling outing featuring CDI’s beloved “recycled teenagers.” There’s still time for local young people to join this unforgettable summer.
To book your place click on the link below — because the magic of summer is just getting started.
