In June 2017, 13 Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service trainee firefighters arrived at the College for eight weeks FFDP training to take advantage of the unique training opportunities available. On completing the course, the trainees returned to their Service to complete four weeks of specialist modules which included technical fire safety, safe working at height and water rescue skills.

The trainees had the opportunity to learn, develop and put into practice the varied skills needed when responding to a range of emergency incidents including: road traffic incidents, chemical spills, building fires and working in confined spaces. Based at the College fire station, a custom built facility, the trainees were able to gain an appreciation of the activities and demands of learning and working closely together and
responding to emergencies.

“Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service have worked closely with the College so that there is a clear understanding from the start on how we will work together to support the development of our new firefighters. We are really pleased to be able to benefit from the facilities that the College has to offer, which can only enrich the training experience for our trainees. Importantly for us, there is clear focus on individual and collective success which will culminate in a Skills for Justice accredited award on completion that recognises the hard work that each of our new firefighters has put in.” Andy Peckham, Head of Training and Development, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.