Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service shortlisted for two national awards

The service’s Competency and Development Team has been nominated and shortlisted for the National Fire Chief Council’s (NFCC) Apprenticeship Awards in two categories. The first nomination is for ‘Apprenticeship Provider of the Year’ which recognises outstanding data and overall performance, innovative training delivery. The second nomination is for ‘Excellence in Apprenticeship Support’ which recognises an outstanding team or individual committed to providing the best support for their apprentices.

The NFCC Apprenticeship Awards will take place on 10 February during National Apprenticeship Week 2025 in London. The judges are looking for strong advocates of apprenticeships who showcase how they proactively go beyond their normal duties to promote apprenticeships as an excellent career route and a way to boost business success. The nominations for the Competency and Development Team were made on behalf of all those in Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service who work with them to help deliver training and support the Apprentices.

Since 2019, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s apprenticeship programme has consistently shown exceptional performance, innovative training, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. It has achieved an extraordinary 100 per cent success rate since it began with 185 apprentices taking part in the programme to date. The nomination for ‘Provider of the Year’ recognises this achievement and the ongoing dedication to providing high-quality training and comprehensive support to apprentices.

In 2024 all candidates earned a distinction in at least one area of assessment and 63% achieved distinctions overall. Additionally, the programme received an Outstanding grade in its 2024 Ofsted inspection which praised the exceptional support provided to candidates, the flexibility of training solutions, and the high expectations set for apprentices.

The nomination for ‘Excellence in Apprenticeship Support’ recognises the Competency and Development Team’s outstanding commitment to providing exceptional support for apprentices, ensuring their success and development within the fire and rescue sector.

The team has implemented innovative strategies for attracting diverse and talented candidates, working with community group leaders in underrepresented areas and establishing effective partnerships with schools, colleges, and community organisations. Experienced and highly skilled instructors use modern teaching methods and technologies to remain at the forefront, including scenario-based multi-agency training.

The positive impact on apprentices’ careers and personal development is significant, with many former apprentices already progressing into crew commander roles with vision and a pathway to senior leadership and management roles.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service Area Commander for Service Support, Wayne Gibbons, said: “I would not only like to congratulate the apprentices for their fantastic results, but also the team who worked with them for their outstanding work to support those aspiring to work in the Service.

“To be shortlisted for these prestigious national awards recognises our continuing dedication and hard work to ensure all our apprentices meet the very high standards we expect from our crews in Hertfordshire.”

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service delivers its apprenticeship training via its main training facility in Longfield, Stevenage. The Service is one of approximately twenty fire and rescue services to offer the apprenticeship.

To find out more visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/fire