Developed in response to growing industry demand for structured, accredited learning, the new qualification combines practical and theoretical components
The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has launched a new accredited training qualification aimed at bolstering fire safety standards and professional competency across UK workplaces. The Level 3 Certificate in Fire Safety Training, now formally recognised by the Awarding Body for Building Education (ABBE), is designed as a ‘train-the-trainer’ course for those seeking formal roles in fire safety education.
Developed in response to growing industry demand for structured, accredited learning, the new qualification combines practical and theoretical components. It begins with a four-day in-person course and is followed by an eight-week period of guided learning and assessment. In total, learners are expected to complete 130 hours of learning time to earn the 13 Level 3 credits attached to the programme.
FPA Head of Training, Kelly Donoghue, said the course has been launched “to meet employers’ needs whilst providing industry professionals with key knowledge and understanding.” She added: “Along with our Training Delivery Team, I am excited to welcome learners onto this qualification which has been developed because of the high demand for our Train the Trainer course to become an OFQUAL registered qualification.”
The curriculum comprises seven mandatory units, covering both educational methodology and essential fire safety knowledge. These include modules on inclusive teaching approaches, understanding and applying assessment principles, fire safety principles, and the safe use of portable firefighting equipment. The FPA says successful learners will be equipped to deliver tailored fire safety and fire warden training specific to different workplace environments.
In line with national qualification frameworks, the FPA clarified that the Level 3 Certificate falls within the medium-range category of its qualifications. Awards consist of up to 120 hours, certificates range between 121 and 369 hours, and diplomas require more than 370 hours of study. All certifications are issued by awarding bodies regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual).
The new certificate complements the FPA’s existing suite of qualifications, including the Level 3 Certificate and Level 4 Diploma in Fire Risk Assessment, both widely used to support legal compliance with UK fire safety legislation. Additional courses include Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications in Passive Fire Protection and Fire Door Inspection.
As regulators and organisations alike face increasing scrutiny over workplace safety and training standards, the introduction of this new programme marks a significant step towards enhancing workforce competency in a sector where the consequences of underperformance can be fatal.
With fire safety legislation evolving and expectations around compliance growing, the FPA says the new qualification provides a formal and flexible pathway for those wanting to take on greater responsibility in their organisations or to transition into training and advisory roles in the fire safety domain.
