By Cliff Shorter BA, MA, Chartered FCIPD, Resident Technical Training Consultant, VT Defence
SubscribeVT has an association with the UK Fire Service that goes back many years. The much loved Thornycroft Fire Engines built by us in the 1930’s and 1950’s have now found their way into museums!
However times move on and we no longer build road vehicles. In recent years we have concentrated on the provision of training and training support. Our portfolio of interests in training for Fire and Rescue professionals is extensive.
In 2001 we opened two Fire Training Centres for the Royal Navy at HMS EXCELLENT in Hampshire and at HMS RALEIGH in Cornwall. These Centres were built by VT and are operated by our joint venture Company Flagship Training Ltd. They are now the world leaders in the field of ship fire fighting. Using modern materials and technology the Centres provide safe, repeatable training events for over 10,000 students each year.
Aware and supportive of the issues that are changing the face of the UK Fire and Rescue Service, VT has adopted a commitment to partnerships that help prepare emergency service professionals for their roles.
In 2003, in partnership with the Somerset, Avon and Gloucester Fire and Rescue Services, we opened and now operate the Severn Park Fire and Rescue Training Centre in Bristol. Once again, the Centre capitalises on modern methods and media to provide the very best training possible for Local Authority Fire Fighters. The Centre is gaining a reputation for innovation and quality that has attracted interest from other Brigades both in the UK and overseas.
We are proud of our partnership with the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service. At Cardiff Gate, together, we have created a superb facility. Here, in an area of natural beauty we have been able to utilise the contours and land area creatively to provide a harmonious training environment.
The challenge of space utilisation has been rewarded by unique solutions including a multi-purpose tower with rock, pylon and building rescue faces. A tunnel complex to accommodate several entry points, gradients, flooding and collapse scenarios and an industrial unit designed to provide many rescue environments.
At VT, we do not consider that training is about providing buildings. Our approach is to find a training solution that is based on a careful analysis of the Operational requirement.
This data then informs a structured Training Needs Analysis, outcomes of which include the training quality management system together with the methods and media to be employed. Only then can we ensure that the design, build and operation of training facilities will meet the need and be flexible enough to respond to change.
This approach matches exactly the premise of PFI contracts and aligns perfectly with the long term partnering relationships that VT values so highly.
PFI`s are long term, the Cardiff Gate Training and Development Centre contract spans 25 years. During that time the Fire Service requirements will change and VT will be alongside the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service to ensure that training always keeps pace with the Operational need.
Want to know more?
Contact cliff.shorter@vtplc.com
