Level 3
Operational Firefighter, Apprenticeship
Level 3
Operational Firefighter, Apprenticeship
Become a firefighter while earning a salary on this exciting Level 3 apprenticeship. Designed for anyone aged 18 or over, you'll develop the practical skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to respond to emergencies, protect communities, and begin a rewarding career in the fire and rescue service.
Course Overview
This Level 3 Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship combines practical workplace training with college-based learning, allowing you to earn while you develop the skills required to become an operational firefighter.
Firefighters respond to a wide range of emergencies, including fires, road traffic collisions, rescues, floods, and other natural or human-made incidents. Throughout your apprenticeship, you'll develop the technical knowledge, practical skills, and professional behaviours needed to work safely and effectively as part of a fire and rescue team.
To comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act, all apprentices will complete their Initial Firefighter Training before working under supervision alongside experienced firefighters. You'll also continue developing your English and maths skills where required.
What will I study?
You'll spend four days each week working with your employer and one day at college studying the theoretical aspects of the role.
Throughout the apprenticeship you'll develop skills including:
• Fire prevention, firefighting, and incident response
• Rescue techniques for people and animals
• Using breathing apparatus and specialist equipment in hazardous environments
• Operating specialist communication, information, and technology systems
• Working safely at height and around water
• Maintaining physical fitness and mental wellbeing
• Working effectively as part of an emergency response team
How will I be assessed?
Assessment includes:
• A portfolio of workplace evidence
• An End-Point Assessment (EPA) consisting of:
• Knowledge test
• Practical observation
• Professional discussion
Additional Information
Throughout your apprenticeship you'll benefit from:
• Initial Firefighter Training delivered as part of your programme
• Dedicated careers advice and guidance
• Access to Weston College's free Career Coach programme
• FREE access to LinkedIn Learning as part of Weston College's Microsoft Showcase College status
• Ongoing support from experienced tutors and careers advisers
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements are determined by individual employers and may include:
• Minimum age of 18 years
• Medical, eyesight, and physical fitness requirements
• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks
• Geographical location requirements to meet emergency response times
• Any additional employer-specific selection tests
If you have not already achieved Level 2 English and maths, you'll need to complete these before your End-Point Assessment. Some employers may also require a suitable level of ICT skills.
What can I do after this course?
Successful completion of this apprenticeship prepares you for a career as an Operational Firefighter within a fire and rescue service, with opportunities to progress into specialist or supervisory roles as your career develops.
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page.
Want to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event.
Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.
Full Fee: £0.00 ?
Supported Fee: £0.00
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