| Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is proud to announce that it has been rated ‘good’ overall by Ofsted, with behaviour and attitudes and personal development recognised as ‘outstanding’.
Ofsted inspected the Service’s provision of education and skills in relation to operational firefighter apprenticeships in July. An ‘outstanding’ judgement for behaviour and attitudes reflects high standards and a positive and respectful culture, with Ofsted highlighting that apprentices demonstrated high levels of respect for each other. The Service was also praised for providing an ambitious programme of learning and development that supports apprentice firefighters to be the best they can be. Area Manager and Head of Training and Operational Review, Jonny Ashton, said: “The Service is dedicated to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our staff and our communities by producing skilled and capable firefighters who are ready to respond to emergencies with proficiency and professionalism. “A commitment to excellence and fostering a culture that supports people to achieve their full potential has contributed to this outstanding recognition.” Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service has also received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the Department for Education regarding its apprentice firefighters’ qualification achievement rates. The achievement rate of 92.1% places the Service in the top 10 performers in the field, showcasing its dedication to providing first class training and an unwavering focus on creating highly skilled and knowledgeable firefighters. Area Manager Ashton added: “Receiving such positive feedback from the Department for Education is rewarding and validates our tireless efforts to ensure that our apprentice firefighters receive the best training possible. “These achievement rates are also testament to the exceptional efforts of our apprentices who are a credit to the Service.” The Service’s training centre in Chorley has consistently been at the forefront of innovative training methods, equipping apprentice firefighters with the knowledge, skills, behaviours and practical experience necessary for responding effectively to emergencies. Members from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service’s Training Centre. Front line (from left to right) – Janine Frankland, Fran Purdy, Charlie Cottam and Karon Taylor. Second line – Group Manager Jonny Ashton, Group Manager Kevin Warwick, Station Manager Martin Dillion and Jill Sanderson. |