Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship Programme

The supplier is required to provide a wraparound service to support the delivery of the Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship Programme.

The wraparound services include:

• Management and support of on-line learning
• Ongoing on-line learning course platform
• Services for administration of the Apprenticeship Service (DAS account administration)
• Cost of managing data systems needed to process ILR submission (PICS)
• On-going development of materials
• Manage EPA arrangement and assessments
• Managing sub-contract agreements
• Financial Management
• Funding claims
• Audit checks and management
• PICs data checking for accuracy and responding to ESFA reporting requirements

The supplier shall act as the lead provider, with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority acting as a delivery sub-contractor for parts of the apprenticeship programme (including the practical training).

Both parties shall work as a partnership to deliver the complete Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship Programme.

An initial cohort of 14 wholetime firefighters will utilise this partnership to complete their apprenticeship. Further cohorts are also likely (dependant on recruitment of wholetime Firefighters and plans for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service to become an Employer Provider and no longer requiring a wraparound service provider). Becoming an Employer Provider is subject to business case development and approval.

The supplier draws down funds from the Apprenticeship Levy. They pay the End Point Assessment Organisation and Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service for the elements of the apprenticeship that they provide. The supplier retains an agreed amount for the services they provide.