Hi to all, I currently work in a fire safety role and to date have successfully completed both the Nebosh general and Fire safety and risk management certificates. I have 4 years practical experience as a retained firefighter and have worked for my current employer for 4 years in the role of a fire safety officer. I also do some voluntary work on my days off in order to gain some practical health and safety knowledge. My employer wont support me financially for my career progression as its not part of my job description to have such qualifications to enable me to carry out my role. I therefore have to fund my course's, which means I have to be cautious that I choose the right course. As previously mentioned I have studied and paid for the two Nebosh certificates and am now looking to study either the Nebosh dip or the FIA European Fire dip but am not sure which one would best suit me. I have a strong interest in both fire and health and safety but am confused as to what path of study to take and weather I should aim for a career in health and safety as it covers a wide variety or aim to specialise in fire safety. Can anyone help with my decision? Regards Newby

Newby As DP says its a very difficult time in the job market. Qualifications today mean little without experience and it can be very difficult to take a junior position if you happen to be in a more mature position in terms of supporting family etc. From that point if view I would have thought that to pursue further qualifications in fire safety would enhance your job prospects the most as you could show the experience and qualification mix. I assume you are continuing with your employment so would be looking for part time or distance learning. As DP has said you may be able to find a course that covers fire or safety with other management elements which would help you. But be prepared these form of training course are not cheep! Good luck

newby I have been luck to be able to follow a number of learning routes over the years, from a full time BSc Honours course, Day release courses and a Post Graduate Certificate In Occupational Health and Safety Management by Distance learning from Portsmouth University. I think I was on the 1st year that course ran. It a big step up from the NEBOSH certificate Level to Diploma level and distance learning is by far the hardest way to undertake any course. Be prepared for long nights of study I even ended up tacking one module on a family holiday to complete which made me very popular. The biggest problem I found with distance learning was with those areas where we had little activity with my employer, for me that was construction. I found Portsmouth very approachable and helpful in those areas, and I was lucky to be able to network locally with other that understood those aspects better than I. If you go down the H&S route rather than the pure fire rout make full use of you local IOSH branch. I wish you luck with what ever you decide and I am sure you will find either option fascinating.