Road traffic collision training updated with two new UK qualifications
Iain Hoey
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New training awards launched for UK road traffic collision instructors
SFJ Awards has reported the launch of two new qualifications designed to support firefighters responsible for road traffic collision training across the UK.
The Level 3 Award in Road Traffic Collision Instruction and the Level 3 Award Revalidation in Road Traffic Collision Instruction were introduced on 1 July 2025.
The qualifications are Ofqual-regulated and were developed in collaboration with the National Fire Chiefs Council and the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation.
SFJ Awards explained that the new awards aim to improve both entry-level and continuing professional development for Road Traffic Collision Instructors.
These instructors deliver training on multi-agency coordination, trauma care, and vehicle extrication methods in operational contexts.
CPD qualification added alongside updated entry award
According to SFJ Awards, the revalidation qualification was created to ensure instructors remain current with changing operational requirements.
The body said both qualifications were finalised following a five-month review involving an expert working group.
David Higham, Managing Director at SFJ Awards, said: “Responding to road traffic collisions has become increasingly complex of in recent years due to the growth in electric vehicles and other technological developments.
“The standalone qualification has been updated to reflect current safety guidelines and the revalidation qualification supports instructors to maintain their competences in light of a changing operational environment.”
Higham stated that the revalidation option will provide a standardised approach to ongoing training.
National stakeholders contributed to qualification development
The qualification development group included representatives from fire and rescue services, the National Fire Chiefs Council, the United Kingdom Rescue Organisation, and independent training specialists.
Neil Pederson, CEO at International Road Rescue and Trauma Consultancy Ltd, was part of the working group.
Pederson said: “These new qualifications enhance the relevance, safety, and effectiveness of road traffic collision instruction, ensuring instructors are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality training.
“What’s more the introduction of a Revalidation Qualification will support instructors in maintaining their competence and ensuring they stay current in their role.
“In turn, this will help standardise ongoing professional development and reinforce the importance of continuous learning.”
According to SFJ Awards, the qualifications are aligned with national incident response standards.
Road Traffic Collision Instructors play key training role
SFJ Awards stated that Road Traffic Collision Instructors are often full-time firefighters responsible for maintaining operational training within their service.
The role includes supporting team readiness for trauma incidents and ensuring the use of nationally agreed response techniques.
The qualifications are intended to formally recognise the training and professional competencies required to deliver this instruction.
The training focuses on coordination with emergency medical and law enforcement agencies.
It also includes content on the latest techniques in vehicle extrication and casualty care.
Qualifications regulated by Ofqual and available now
Both qualifications are now available to eligible learners across the UK.
SFJ Awards confirmed that they are officially recognised and regulated by Ofqual.
The qualifications were developed to ensure consistency in standards across fire and rescue services.
They are expected to form part of broader efforts to modernise firefighter training in response to technological changes such as electric vehicles.
According to SFJ Awards, the qualifications are now open for enrolment and delivery.
Road traffic collision training updated with two new UK qualifications: Summary
SFJ Awards has announced the launch of two Ofqual-regulated qualifications.
The Level 3 Award in Road Traffic Collision Instruction and the Level 3 Award Revalidation in Road Traffic Collision Instruction were introduced on 1 July 2025.
The awards support entry-level and continuing professional development for Road Traffic Collision Instructors.
Development involved stakeholders from NFCC, UKRO and independent organisations.
The revalidation qualification aims to ensure instructors maintain competence in evolving operational contexts.
Both qualifications reflect updated guidance on trauma care and extrication.
SFJ Awards led a five-month review to align the qualifications with current best practices.
David Higham of SFJ Awards said the training responds to challenges posed by electric vehicles and technology changes.
Neil Pederson of International Road Rescue and Trauma Consultancy contributed to the qualification design.
Pederson said the awards support standardisation and ongoing learning.
The qualifications are now available across the UK.
