SAPS, Fire Ops SA, and CPF join to give Steps Academy an adventure filled careers day
Learners at Steps Academy explored careers in policing, firefighting, and public safety during an action-packed day, supported by SAPS, Honeydew CPF, and Fire Ops SA.
Steps Academy, in Randpark Ridge, hosted a lively and informative careers day event, bringing learners face-to-face with real-life heroes from the South African Police Service (SAPS), Fire Ops SA, and the K9 Unit.
Organised in partnership with members of the Honeydew Community Policing Forum (CPF), the event featured engaging demos, safety awareness talks, and career guidance sessions for learners across all age groups.
Read more: Honeydew CPF hosts community meeting in Boskruin
Indira Govender, director and principal of Steps Academy, said the aim was to spark curiosity about future careers, while also teaching children how to stay safe in their communities. “For the little ones, we made it a dress-up day, where they came dressed as what they want to be when they grow up: Police officers, firemen, soldiers, and more. For our older learners, it was about exploring career paths and understanding their role in society.”
The SAPS delivered a key presentation about careers within the police force, explaining various entry points, such as the graduate programme, as well as roles in law, IT, and education. Officers also discussed the importance of safety, community protection, and the impact of crime.
A highlight of the day was a live demonstration by the SAPS K9 Unit. Learners got to watch highly trained dogs in action, sniffing out drugs, performing protection work, and responding to commands. The officers also explained career options within the unit, and technical fields tied to police operations.
Fire Ops SA added more action with a fire safety demo. They showed how to put out fires and explained the dangers of everyday items, like solar panels and lithium batteries. One of the most touching moments came from a Grade 2 learner who performed a ‘Stop, drop, and roll’ demonstration. A year ago, he survived a house fire, and Fire Ops SA was the team that responded to that call.
“Our goal was to combine education with experience,” said Govender. “The children asked questions we didn’t expect. It was a powerful reminder of how engaged and thoughtful our youth are.”
For grades 10 to 12, the day was also a chance to explore career options, as university application deadlines approach.
The event left learners informed, inspired, and more aware of the people who work daily to keep their communities safe.
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