How Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Cut Training Time by 50% with Onefile

The Challenge

When I did my NVQ years ago, collecting evidence was tough. I had to print everything out and keep it in two lever arch files so full I eventually had to put a belt around them to keep them together. Assessors used to travel from station to station to collect evidence, and trainees could only complete work at the station because taking files home was a hassle. It was difficult to identify outcomes as they were never to hand, and the whole process was time-consuming and inefficient. 

The Solution

In 2013, we started using Onefile Eportfolio – and it’s completely revolutionised how we deliver training across 29 fire stations in Nottinghamshire. Now, firefighters and crew managers upload evidence straight into Onefile, and assessors are notified when work is submitted. Assessors still visit for observations, but their time with learners is now spent much more productively. 

 Onefile makes everything accessible, so trainees continue working on assessments at home – something that never happened before. They’re motivated by seeing their progress increase in Onefile when they complete work. The system is straightforward, and even those reluctant to use technology quickly get to grips with it, while younger firefighters love it immediately. 

The Impact

Onefile has made us much more efficient. On paper, writing up and cross-referencing an observation could take over an hour; now it takes as little as 15 minutes – saving 75% of the time. All criteria are available within a couple of clicks, and IQAs can give feedback instantly, improving the quality of assessments. 

We’re now training firefighters up to 50% faster. Completing a Watch Manager NVQ used to take 18 months; with Onefile, it takes between 9 and 12 months. Everyone at Onefile should be very proud of their software – it’s been a game changer for us. I would definitely recommend Onefile! 

Ready to revolutionise your training delivery? 

Discover how Onefile streamlines assessments and can help cut completion times by up to 50%. From remote evidence collection to real-time progress tracking, Onefile makes managing training simple, efficient and engaging. 

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