New partnership targets competence in apprentice fire and security technicians
Skills for Security has partnered with C-TEC to strengthen training opportunities for apprentice fire and security technicians through access to current technologies and direct engagement with industry expertise.
C-TEC will support the programme by providing equipment for training, technical resources and access to its engineering and product development expertise.
The organisations said the aim is to give apprentices more direct exposure to the technologies they are expected to work with in the field.
Hands-on work with fire systems
Apprentices will work with fire alarm, evacuation alert and lockdown systems used across the UK.
Skills for Security said the training is intended to build understanding of how these systems are designed, installed and maintained in line with relevant British Standards and industry regulations.
The programme will also include demonstrations and discussions focused on how design choices affect performance, usability and long-term maintenance.
C-TEC outlines workforce expectations
Andy Green, Marketing Director at C-TEC, said: “C-TEC recognises the importance of ensuring new technicians are trained using equipment they will encounter throughout their careers.
“By supporting Skills for Security, we can help apprentices develop the confidence and technical understanding needed to work with life-safety systems responsibly and competently.
“Our aim is to contribute to a well-prepared workforce that can maintain the standards to ensure compliance.”
Skills for Security on competence focus
Skills for Security said the partnership aligns with an increasing focus on competence, as technology changes and regulations continue to develop.
The organisation added that collaboration between manufacturers and training providers can help apprentices meet expectations around understanding and accountability.
David Scott, Managing Director at Skills for Security, added: “Partnering with C-TEC gives our apprentices hands-on experience with current systems while combining technical expertise and training to develop knowledgeable, confident fire and security professionals.
“This collaboration highlights our shared commitment to practical learning, industry standards, and the continued commitment to a skilled, safety-focused workforce.”
What this means for training and compliance
Fire-protection contractors, system installers and training officers can use partnerships of this type to align apprentice learning with the equipment and system categories used in live projects.
Manufacturers contributing training equipment and technical input can help training providers show how design decisions affect installation practice, usability during commissioning and maintenance requirements over time.
For organisations responsible for competence management, the focus on working to relevant British Standards and industry regulations provides a direct link between practical training and compliance expectations.
For facility managers and building services engineers, a workforce trained on fire alarm, evacuation alert and lockdown systems supports clearer handover conversations and more consistent maintenance planning once systems are in service.