Today marks the start of National Apprenticeship Week 2026 and we’re proud to shine a spotlight on the people who make our service stronger, more skilled and more representative of the communities we serve.
Apprenticeships have become an important milestone of how we develop talent, not just for our dedicated frontline firefighters, but also our behind-the-scenes heroes across every part of our organisation.
This year is especially meaningful for our organisation. It marks 10 years since we introduced our first apprenticeship schemes, a programme that has transformed how we recruit, train and support our staff.
A Decade of Firefighter Apprenticeships
When we launched our Firefighter Apprenticeship a decade ago, the goal was simple: to offer a structured pathway into the role, while gaining nationally recognised qualifications alongside high quality operational training.
Rachel, our Employee Development Officer, has been with the Service since the beginning of our firefighter apprenticeship journey, supporting over 100 apprentices.
She shared;
“Reflecting over the last 10 years our apprenticeship programme has been an incredible journey full of development for everyone who has played a part. Meeting people on their first day in service and supporting them through to the moment of congratulations when they have completed their apprenticeship has been a great personal experience. I have enjoyed spending time working alongside colleagues across the country through the NFCC apprenticeships network to deliver outstanding apprenticeship support which is reflective of our high distinction rates.”
Ten years later, the results speak for themselves.
- Hundreds of apprentices have completed the programme and gone on to become fulltime competent firefighters.
- Many have progressed into specialist roles such as drivers (getting our fire engines to you in the event of an emergency), USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) technicians, management roles and more!
- The apprenticeship route has helped us reach people who might never have considered a career in the fire service, strengthening diversity, broadening skills and enriching our culture.
One of the biggest successes has been the blend of practical training and academic learning. Apprentices graduate not only as competent firefighters but with a Level 3 qualification that supports long-term career development.
Sam, Head of Apprenticeships at Capita, shared;
“On behalf of Capita and The Fire Service College, I am delighted to congratulate Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service on reaching an incredible milestone,10 years of apprenticeship delivery. This achievement reflects not only your commitment to developing a skilled, resilient, and future‑ready workforce, but also the positive impact you continue to make across the fire and rescue sector and within the communities you serve.
It is our privilege to partner with you. Our collaboration has supported 120 apprentices to date, with impressive 76 apprentices who have successfully achieved.
Among those achievers, 33% secured a Distinction Grade, demonstrating the high calibre of your learners and the strength of the support you provide. The progress over time has been outstanding, we have seen a remarkable 52% increase from 2023/24 to 2024/25. This is a testament to the dedication, professionalism, and drive shown by both your teams and your apprentices.
Our partnership is built on shared values: excellence in learning, a commitment to safety and service, and a passion for nurturing the next generation of operational and professional talent. Together, we have seen apprentices grow into confident, capable colleagues who enhance service delivery and strengthen community safety every day.
Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue’s decade of investment in apprenticeships has had a profound impact, not only developing skilled firefighters and future leaders but also creating wider benefits across the sector. Your approach is a model of how apprenticeships can be used strategically to build capability, improve diversity, and support sustainable workforce planning.
We are incredibly proud to support your journey and celebrate this milestone with you. Congratulations on ten years of apprenticeship success, and we look forward to continuing our partnership as you shape the next decade of talent and innovation in fire and rescue.”
More Than Firefighting: Apprenticeships Across the Service
While we are very proud of our firefighter apprentices, they’re only one part of our story. Today, apprenticeships support almost every function within our organisation. They help us grow our own talent, invest in our people and build a workforce ready for the future. We have past and present apprentices in teams like Fire Safety, Pensions, ICT, Marketing, Leadership and more!
Megan, Service Desk Manager, shared;
“I am currently at University studying Digital Technology Solutions as part of my Degree Apprenticeship. Returning to structured study while managing a demanding full-time workload felt like a significant step and a genuine challenge.
I chose this route as I feel that it offers a practical and applied approach to learning. Being able to use the knowledge and skills I gain directly in my role at work has helped me understand the subject matter more clearly and see its real-world value. Balancing coursework deadlines, learning new technical skills, and managing everyday life can be challenging, particularly during busy periods. However, the experience has been extremely rewarding and has helped me grow in confidence, resilience, and problem-solving ability.
Although I am still part way through the course, the experience has already shown me that there is more than one route to professional development. It has reinforced the idea that apprenticeships can be a valuable and accessible option at any stage of life, offering meaningful opportunities for learning, progression, and career development.”
Investing in the Future
Apprenticeships have become a huge tool for developing talent. They allow our staff to earn while they learn, gain real experience and build a career with purpose. For us, they ensure we continue to grow a skilled and motivated workforce.
As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we want to recognise every apprentice, past and present, who has contributed to our service. Their dedication, curiosity and commitment help us protect our communities every day.