Learning & Development (IPDS) Briefing
Background
Learning and Development within the Scottish
Fire and Rescue Service is based on a system of Integrated Personal Development
(IPDS). IPDS is a means by which the Fire & Rescue Services can
implement best practice human resource processes across the full range of Fire
Service activity. It is intended to enable Fire Service staff to attain, and
subsequently maintain the level of competence required to meet the demands of
their role.The key elements of IPDS are:
- National objectives for development and
training.
- A structure which is related to role rather than
rank.
- A national standard process for recruitment and
selection based on role related competencies.
- A national strategy for training at local,
regional and central level that supports staff in achieving and maintaining
competence in the roles and activities they perform.
- National Occupational Standards (NOS) for each
of the main areas of activity.
- Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQ's) based
on the NOS.
- Targeted personal development.
- A Personal Development Record for all Fire Service staff.
With this in mind, the Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service are implementing the IPDS to all personnel in the Service within a structured timeframe.
What will this mean for you?
IPDS is learning
and development practices, policies and procedures formalised into a National
structure and standard. If you are deemed competent in your current role you
will be required (as you are now) to maintain the skills necessary to be
competent and safe in your role. You will be required to record your activities
and achievements of competency using a computerised version of your personal
training record.
New personnel entering into the Service or personnel
promoted to a new role will be required to demonstrate that they have acquired
and then applied the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding to the
appropriate standard. Following the completion of the development phase
personnel will move to the competent rate and will be required to maintain their
skills as detailed above for competent personnel.
What’s happening now?
The Wholetime
Station in Inverness is already working within the new framework for both
competent personnel and personnel currently under development. The Learning and
Development Team is in the process of implementing a Retained IPDS Pilot Project
to Lochcarron, Kirkwall and Fortrose which will run for the remainder of 2006.
The purpose of the project is to ascertain the most appropriate format and
method of implementing IPDS / Learning and Development to the remaining Retained
Stations.
Full details of the project will be issued in the spring / summer
Newsletter and published on the Service Website.
