£3,500 Fire Safety Equipment Donated to Bradford College

New equipment aims to enhance apprentice training in fire security

Bradford College has received a donation of industry-standard fire and security equipment valued at £3,500 from Checkmate Fire, an independent fire safety company. This contribution is intended to support the training of apprentices enrolled in the College’s Fire Security & Alarms programme.

Details of the donation

The equipment provided includes a variety of tools commonly used in the fire and safety sector, such as:

• CCTV cameras and a Network Video Recorder (NVR)
• Intruder alarm systems
• Paxton access control systems
• Fire panels
• Smoke and heat detectors
• Sounders from multiple manufacturers

These resources allow apprentices to gain hands-on experience with technology they are likely to encounter in their future careers, helping to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application.

Partnership between Bradford College and Checkmate Fire

The donation is part of an ongoing collaboration between Bradford College and Checkmate Fire, which also includes the company supporting apprentices currently undertaking their training at the College. Checkmate Fire has employees progressing through apprenticeship programmes, with some having recently completed their three-year courses and others beginning their first year.

Michael Heydon, Managing Director of Checkmate Fire’s Active Fire and Security Division, highlighted the importance of investing in apprenticeships to address the skills shortage in the industry. He noted that the partnership allows the company to provide feedback on the skills required by employers and to contribute to shaping the training provided to apprentices.

Benefits for apprentices and employers

Access to up-to-date equipment and industry expertise helps apprentices develop the technical skills and confidence necessary for the workplace. Natalie Toas, Head of People and Development at Checkmate Fire, emphasised the value of combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The company also plans to offer further support by sharing expertise in areas such as fire engineering, design, and risk assessments, as well as providing insights into career progression within the fire safety sector.

Future developments

The partnership is expected to expand, with Checkmate Fire exploring additional apprenticeship opportunities and potential collaboration with the company’s training academy in Halifax. Bradford College’s Fire & Security Skills Coach, Michael Patra, noted that input from industry professionals is invaluable in helping apprentices understand career pathways and the skills needed to succeed.

Supporting the local workforce

This collaboration reflects the broader role employers can play in developing education programmes that meet industry needs. By working closely with colleges, businesses can help ensure apprentices receive relevant and up-to-date training, contributing to the development of a skilled local workforce.

For organisations interested in apprenticeship partnerships or employer collaborations with Bradford College, further information is available through the College’s official channels.