Please introduce yourself and tell us about your career to date.
I am Anna Bradley, one of the first fire safety apprentices at Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service. When I started the apprenticeship back in September 2024, I knew little about fire safety. My background was in sports—I have a BSc in Sport Sciences, and I previously worked as a building and sports supervisor at a local university sports arena. That role sparked my interest in fire safety and motivated me to apply for the fire safety apprenticeship, where I am now working towards a Level 4 Diploma. Fast forward a year and a half, and the time has flown by! I already feel valued within my community as I can share knowledge, and I am proud to be contributing to such important work.
Describe your apprenticeship role within your current workplace and describe what a typical working day looks like.
Fire safety isn’t always black and white—and neither is a typical day in my role, which is exactly what I enjoy about it. When I’m not attending courses or working through coursework, I spend time shadowing colleagues to gain firsthand experience. I’ve observed inspections across a wide range of premises, from nurseries to monasteries. Regular shadowing is a key part of my development, with the goal of building strong fire safety competency. Other days are just as varied as I often support multi-agency projects and attend events with local businesses to promote the importance of fire safety.
What were your main reasons for choosing an apprenticeship over other educational or career routes (e.g., university, full-time work)?
Like many, I followed a traditional route, straight from sixth form to university. Post university, I landed a full-time role relating to my degree but that role made me question—was I truly enthusiastic about pursuing a career in sport? The honest answer was no; I was happier just playing it!
I realised that I wanted a career in health and safety, ideally within a service. So, when the opportunity for a highly specialised fire safety apprenticeship came up, it felt too good to miss. I have not weighed up the pros and cons between apprenticeships and university. My degree proved I could handle an academic challenge, but I’d still advocate going straight into apprenticeships because they are a brilliant way to learn on the job and build real-world experience.
What specific skills or knowledge do you feel you’ve gained through your apprenticeship that will help you in your long-term career?
I’ve developed strong communication skills, confidently engaging with a wide range of people. My role means enforcing the Fire Safety Order 2005 in the built environment, meaning I look to reduce fire risk and ensure safe escape routes, all while preserving life safety and business continuity. I’ve had challenging conversations, but the knowledge gained during my apprenticeship helps me explain legislation clearly and guide others towards compliance. I’ve also learned that fire safety rules are constantly evolving, so staying up to date is key to do my job effectively.
Is there any advice you would pass on to someone considering doing an apprenticeship?
My advice is cliché but go for it - apprenticeships are an amazing way to earn while you learn and gain real world experience. That said, do not underestimate the amount of work involved; an apprenticeship requires commitment and good time management! I’ve been fortunate to have complete flexibility within my service, which has made balancing work and study much easier. Plus, my mentors provided by the training provider and my service have been fantastic, offering plenty of resources and support along the way.
Are there any particular challenges or unusual aspects to your apprenticeship role?
Fire safety regulations and guidance is forever evolving, as an apprentice you must learn the old information and the new, plus stay on top of all the changes! This is quite a daunting challenge, especially when I first started my apprenticeship as the breadth of legislation and guidance was like reading a new language. However, with plenty of application the world of fire safety is no longer as daunting.
What do you find most enjoyable about your apprenticeship role?
I've enjoyed visiting new places. It’s given me the chance to learn so much, and not just about fire safety! I’ve got to look behind closed doors and interact with people I never would have met otherwise, which has been fascinating.
Specifically relating to my studies, I’ve loved researching fire safe building design strategies for unique settings like sporting venues and historic buildings. These areas really interest me; I can use my apprenticeship to build as the foundation to gain further qualifications and hopefully specialise in these areas one day.
Is there a great professional achievement or high-profile accomplishment that you would like to tell us about in your apprenticeship role?
My greatest professional achievement is ongoing; it’s my ability to proactively educate others about fire safety. Both past and recent events have highlighted the importance of the Fire Safety Inspector’s role, and I take pride in the fact I am almost qualified as one.
My role has allowed me to contribute to safer environments through awareness and compliance, and what makes this achievement truly rewarding is the genuine gratitude and appreciation expressed by individuals for what we consider “just doing our job.” These moments reinforce the value and impact of our work and motivate me to continue striving for excellence in fire safety.
What contributed to your decision to gain IFE Student membership?
I am working towards a fire-related qualification and having a Student membership allows me access to extra resources such as the CPD Hub which enables me to learn about a wide range of topics.
How has being an IFE student member supported your development during your apprenticeship? (e.g., resources, networking, learning opportunities)
Student membership has allowed me to have access to additional CPD modules and resources on specialist subjects which supplements my learning. This has enabled me to plug my knowledge gaps helping to inform my decision-making.
Would you recommend joining the IFE as a Student member to others? If so, why?
Yes! It provides access to learning resources, professional guidance, networking opportunities and CPD. It supports career development and helps students connect with fire engineering professionals early on in their career.