Shaping the future of fire and rescue leaders in Wales
This week marked the conclusion of our Pioneer Programme, a six-month course providing learning, reflection and development of key areas and themes for effective leadership. Fire and Rescue Services in Wales are undergoing a period of significant transformation, with changes in culture and growing demands meaning that leaders need new skills and ways of thinking.
In collaboration with the University of South Wales and North and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service(SWFRS), the Pioneer Programme is aimed at current and aspiring strategic leaders. Following the programme, successful delegates will receive their Institute of Leadership & Management Level 7 qualification (ILM7).
A total of twelve delegates – nine from SWFRS and three from North Fire and Rescue Service – participated in this year’s programme.
The first Pioneer programme took place in 2018. Assistant Chief Fire Officer for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Dean Loader, attended the course and shared his experience:
“I attended the first Pioneer Programme in Wales, motivated by my ambition to become a future strategic leader within SWFRS. The programme content supported my understanding of key leadership areas and encouraged ongoing learning and curiosity.
A key benefit was the shared learning within the cohort, gaining different perspectives has been invaluable to my leadership journey. We formed a strong network that continues to offer support and guidance today.
I fully endorse the programme and was honoured to speak to the current cohort about my experiences.”
The programme is made up of four modules, starting in January 2025, and wrapped up in June 2025, covering areas including:
To prepare delegates for the next step, the programme focused on building confidence, developing leadership skills, and deepening understanding of the practical requirements of their roles.
During the programme, guest speakers were invited to various modules to share their insights and experiences, enhancing participants’ knowledge in their specialist areas, these included:
Steve O’Connell Area Manager, delegate on the Pioneer Programme said:
“The Pioneer Programme has been a great opportunity to continue developing my leadership skills while gaining a better understanding of what it takes to lead change and positively impact culture and performance. It’s has also been valuable working alongside people from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and learning from their experiences.”
Hannah Goodchild, People Service Manager added:
“The Pioneer Programme has provided a great platform to learn and network with wider Fire and Rescue Service colleagues. We have been taught endless theory, practical skills and had significant real-life experiences to utilise and reflect on to help guide us into the strategic leaders we are aiming to be.”
Delegates received a certificate and commemorative keepsake in recognition of completing the taught face-to-face modules. To achieve their ILM Level 7 award, delegates are now required to complete the remaining online assessments.
We wish everyone on the course a good luck for the completion of their online assessments.