Capita Fire Service College apprenticeships

Developing the next generation of operational firefighters

As one of the UK’s largest independent apprenticeship providers, Capita is committed to raising professional standards across the fire and rescue sector. Through the Fire Service College, we deliver the Operational Firefighter Level 3 Apprenticeship, a nationally recognised programme that builds the confidence, competence, and resilience needed for today’s frontline roles.

Backed by strong industry partnerships, world‑class training facilities, and consistently high achievement rates, our apprenticeship blends technical learning with immersive, practical experience that prepares apprentices for real‑world emergency response.

Who we are

Capita PLC is accredited by the Department for Education (DfE) and rated Ofsted Grade 2 (Good) with Outstanding in Behaviour & Attitudes and Personal Development (July 2024).

Our performance reflects consistent excellence:

2023/24 Contract Year

·       Overall pass rate: 97.7%

·       Overall Quality Achievement Rate (QAR): 61.6%

2024/25 Contract Year (Current)

·       Overall pass rate: 99.0% (↑ 1.3%)

·       Overall Quality Achievement Rate (QAR): 78.3% (↑ 16.7%)

These outcomes reflect strong learner support, industry‑leading delivery, and clear pathways into operational roles.

Delivered in partnership with industry leaders

We work with key organisations to ensure our curriculum meets national standards and the evolving needs of the sector, including:

·       Skills for Justice

·       Highfield Qualifications

·       DfE

·       NCFE

·       Leaders in Safeguarding

About the operational firefighter level 3 apprenticeship

This apprenticeship prepares individuals for operational roles across:

·       The 45 Fire and Rescue Services in England

·       Civil aviation fire and rescue teams

·       Private sector fire service units within engineering, manufacturing, and industrial environments

·       Ministry of Defence

·       RAF and Armed Forces

·       Organisations handling explosives, chemicals, and hazardous materials

It supports both Wholetime and On‑Call firefighters, offering flexibility across duty systems.

World‑class training at the fire service college

Training takes place at the Fire Service College, featuring purpose‑built incident grounds, live‑fire simulators, hazardous materials training zones and realistic multi‑agency environments

These facilities give apprentices hands‑on experience in live‑fire scenarios, complex rescues, incident command and community safety operations.

Programme features

Immersive, hands‑on learning
Realistic emergency scenarios develop safe, effective responders from day one.

Structured curriculum covering:

·       Core firefighting skills

·       Fire behaviour

·       Hazardous materials awareness

·       Community safety and prevention

·       JESIP and multi‑agency response

·       Physical and mental resilience

·       Modern digital communication tools

Residential and workplace‑based learning
Optional on‑site residential phases combined with on‑station development tasks align learning to operational standards.

Off‑the‑job learning
Dedicated study time supports technical development and confidence in role.

Why fire and rescue services choose capita

Enhanced operational readiness
We develop confident, capable firefighters who strengthen operational resilience.

Improved recruitment and retention
A clear pathway and recognised qualification support long‑term workforce stability.

Evidence‑based outcomes
Services can monitor competency development, performance improvements, ROI, wellbeing, and community impact.

Expert instructors
Training is delivered by highly experienced operational professionals.

Robust safeguarding and learner support
With Leaders in Safeguarding Gold Standard accreditation, we provide comprehensive academic, pastoral, and adaptive support.

Strong, proven results

·       Ofsted “Good” with Outstanding elements

·       Achievement rates above sector benchmarks

·       Integrated English and Maths learning

·       Clear progression into operational roles

Shaping the future of fire and rescue

The Capita Fire Service College apprenticeship plays a vital role in developing the next generation of operational firefighters, equipped with the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to protect communities in an increasingly complex environment.

Our apprenticeship provides a proven, high‑quality route to building capable, job‑ready firefighters.

Get in touch here: ApprenticeshipAdministration@knowledgepool.com