New College Durham celebrates collaborative success with County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service

The first group of 14 learners recently attended their very own ‘Passing Out’ ceremony to celebrate the successful completion of a pioneering new fire-service preparation programme delivered in partnership between New College Durham (NCD) and County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS).

The 13-week programme, designed for anyone aged 19 and over, was created to support individuals taking their first exciting steps towards a career in the fire service. Successful participants completed sessions combining practical training, accredited learning, and employability development, culminating in a Level 2 qualification in Safeguarding and Prevention.

Delivered across multiple venues - including New College Durham’s newly developed Training & Skills Development facility, and fire stations at Durham and Bishop Auckland, the course provided learners with a realistic insight into fire service careers. Participants undertook fitness training, mock recruitment assessments, safeguarding and prevention training, and received tailored support with the fire service’s dedicated online recruitment process. The programme also focused on wellbeing, resilience, teamwork, communication, and interview skills.

Lisa Waller, Director of Business Development, Sales and Growth from New College Durham, praised the achievements of the group: “We are incredibly proud of our first group of learners who have shown real commitment, resilience, and determination throughout the programme. Our partnership with CDDFRS provides a clear and supportive pathway into a highly respected public service career, and the success of this initial cohort demonstrates just how valuable this opportunity is.”

Subject to meeting recruitment requirements including assessments and fitness testing, successful completion of the programme places participants in a strong position for future recruitment. They gain the opportunity to qualify for a guaranteed interview during any forthcoming fire service recruitment process.

Jon Singleton, Group Manager, Head of Community Risk Management for CDDFRS commented: “Fire Futures has been about much more than introducing people to the fire service – it’s about building confidence, capability and understanding of the responsibilities that come with the role of a modern firefighter. All 14 participants have shown real dedication and motivation throughout the programme, and gaining a Level 2 Safeguarding and Prevent qualification is a significant achievement that is directly relevant to the work our firefighters do every day. The programme has helped participants understand our recruitment standards, fitness requirements, and the importance of Safeguarding and Prevent principles, while also developing the employability skills needed to succeed. We’re incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved and the commitment they’ve shown to their future careers.”