Firefighting

Modern Apprenticeship

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What's Firefighting like?

Studying for a firefighting apprenticeship gives you the chance to help people. Be part of a service that is dedicated to making society safer. The apprenticeship is designed to give you all the necessary firefighting skills that will help you succeed in the fire and rescue service.   

What's the qualification?

SCQF Level 7

You'll gain a Modern Apprenticeship in Firefighting at SCQF Level 7. 

Your qualification includes:

  • Core units of an SVQ in emergency fire service at SCQF Level 7

  • Work experience designed to increase your knowledge of a dynamic industry

  • SVQ Emergency Fire Service: Operations in the Community at SCQF Level 7

SCQF qualification levels explained

What will I learn?

During your apprenticeship, you'll learn how to:   

  • Take responsibility for effective performance in fire and rescue

  • Search for, rescue and support endangered life

  • Resolve fire and rescue operational incidents

  • Support the development of colleagues in fire and rescue

  • Contribute to fire safety solutions to minimise risks

  • Drive fire and rescue service vehicles 

You will develop the following core skills:   

  • Problem-solving 

  • Communication

  • Teamwork

  • Time management 

These transferrable skills are useful for working in other roles like fire investigation and command support. 

Where could it take me?

This Modern Apprenticeship gives you a range of options. Carry on your studies with a fire safety degree or go into full-time work.  

Further education: Apply for a higher qualification such as a bachelor’s degree in fire investigation. Your experience will support your university application.   

Straight to work: Use your qualifications and find a job in the firefighting sector. Several jobs are listed below:

  • Firefighter 

  • Fire safety officer 

  • Fire services engineer

  • Emergency fire crew driver

  • Fire engineer 

Entry requirements

Due to the nature of the role, apprentices must be 18 years old to apply.  The selection process is made up of seven stages:  

  • Application

  • First psychometric assessment

  • Second psychometric assessment

  • Fitness assessment

  • Practical selection testing

  • Interview 

  • Conditional offer

How does it work?

You’ll learn in a real-world environment and earn a wage. You’ll also study with a college or another learning provider. 

How long will it take?

The apprenticeship will take 3 years to complete.  

How to apply

Use the 'Find vacancies near you' search at the end of this page to look for vacancies, then you can apply online.

You'll apply on Apprenticeships.scot or the company’s own website – there are details on the vacancy advert.

Find vacancies near you