Maple Ridge Fire and Rescue support two training and education programs for youth.
The Maple Ridge Fire Youth Academy is a one-of-a-kind program designed to give grade 11 and 12 students a firsthand look at firefighting through hands-on training and experience.
Camp Ignite is an annual camp to foster young women interested in firefighting. Maple Ridge Fire and Rescue sponsor local applicants to attend the camp, helping encourage the inclusion of women in the industry.
This page includes details on both of these programs and their application opportunities.
Maple Ridge Fire Youth Academy
Building Tomorrow’s Firefighters — Today
The Maple Ridge Fire Youth Academy is a one-of-a-kind program designed to give Grade 11 and 12 students a firsthand look at what it takes to become a firefighter.
For over two decades the Academy has provided Maple Ridge youth with opportunities for hands-on training, community service, and personal growth building confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills that last a lifetime.
Over the course of seven months, participants train alongside members of Maple Ridge Fire Rescue, experiencing the challenges and rewards of the fire service while earning valuable work experience credits towards graduation.
Program Overview
The program runs annually from September through May.
Throughout the program, recruits will:
- Participate in hands-on fire department training each week
- Volunteer in the community, learning the value of service and leadership
- Build essential life skills: teamwork, communication, and problem-solving
- Experience a culminating Live Fire Day in late May, putting their skills to the test in realistic training scenarios
This unique program helps youth explore whether a future in firefighting or other emergency services might be right for them.
Many of our graduates have gone on to serve as career or paid-on-call firefighters in Maple Ridge and across British Columbia.
Program Details
- Who Can Apply: Grade 11 or 12 students (ages 16–18) living in Maple Ridge
- Program Duration: mid-October to mid-June, Tuesday afternoons from 1:00–5:00 p.m.
- Where: Maple Ridge Fire Rescue, in partnership with School District 42
- Work Experience Credit: Successful participants earn credits toward graduation
How to Apply
Applications for the Youth Academy open in September.
Interested Grade 11 and 12 students who attend a high school in Maple Ridge can obtain an application package through their school’s guidance/ career counsellor.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Completed application form
- Personal statement outlining interest in the program
- Reference letter (optional)
- Note: A doctor’s note will be required for those who are accepted into the program to confirm physical fitness for participation.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview as part of the selection process.
For questions or more details, students can speak with career or guidance counsellors at their school.
Why Join the Youth Academy?
- Experience what it’s really like to be a firefighter
- Gain leadership and teamwork skills for life
- Earn high school work experience credits
- Make a difference in your community
- Build confidence and friendships that last long after graduation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Camp Ignite Sponsorship
Camp Ignite is an annual three-night, three-day camp during early August that educates and inspires young women to follow their dreams in firefighting.
The camp is open to girls currently in grade 12 or entering grade 12 in 2026, who are currently living in British Columbia. Run by off-duty female firefighters from across the province, the camp offers an introduction to the exciting world of firefighting, and educates campers on fitness, nutrition, health and teamwork.
In 2026, Maple Ridge Fire & Rescue sponsored two applicants from our community to attend the Camp.
2026 Maple Ridge Camp Attendees:
- Danika Michelsen
- Sienna Topley
For more information, visit Camp Ignite - Camp, Firefighting, Summer Camp
