City Fire & Rescue pilots officer development programme

28 March 2024

The programme, introduced in 2023, is internationally certified, and affords firefighters the opportunity to level up and be eligible for vacant Leading Firefighting positions. The first group of participants graduated today. 

Initiated by the City's Chief Fire Officer, the programme aims not only to improve the chances of advancement within the service, but also public safety.  

 A total of 13 officers signed up – today, 12 graduated. One participant passed away a few months into the course.

 The Officer Development Programme includes theoretical and practical modules and was hosted at the Fire Service Training Academy in Epping.

 The courses covered in the programme included;

• Fire Instructor 1 (four week course)
• Wildland Firefighter 1 (four week course)
• Wildland Firefighter 2 (four week course)
• Wildland Fire Officer 1 (four weeks)
• Fire Officer 1 (two phases, each consisting of four weeks) 
  
   It is envisaged that the programme will be offered on an ongoing basis to equip more staff members with advanced skills and knowledge, but also further bolster the Fire and Rescue Service and its efforts to safeguard communities.
  
   
  
  'This is a very special day for our Fire and Rescue Service, but also our Safety and Security Directorate, as it marks the latest in an ongoing drive to upskill staff members and ensure that our service levels and abilities are top notch. A very hearty congratulations to the first group of participants. Their success will pave the way for others to follow. And, while the programme has given them a boost towards career advancement, it also speaks to a continued investment into the Fire and Rescue Service – building a knowledge pool that others can learn from, and that communities can benefit from,' said the Chairperson of the Safety and Security Portfolio Committee, Councillor Mzwakhe Nqavashe.
  
   End

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office