At SFJ Awards, we’re experts in qualifications , apprenticeships, End-Point Assessments, and skill development across various sectors including policing, custody and detention, fire and rescue, and security . To help you plan for the year ahead, we’ve made a list of ten key events for your 2025 calendar.
Ten sector events
1. National Apprenticeship Week – 3-9 February 2025
This UK-wide initiative celebrates the impact of apprenticeships on careers and organisations, highlighting the value of skilled apprentices across various sectors.
2. International Women’s Day – 8 March 2025
An excellent opportunity to celebrate women’s achievements in fire, rescue, security, and other industries, promoting gender equality in the workforce.
3. The Future of Apprenticeships Conference – Spring 2025
This UK conference focusses on best practices, innovations, and policies shaping the apprenticeship landscape.
4. Learning Technologies Conference – 23-24 April 2025
Taking place in London, this is Europe’s leading event for workplace learning and development, with a strong focus on innovative solutions for skills and qualifications.
5. World Health and Safety at Work Day – 28 April 2025
An important day in the UK, focussing on workplace safety and the value of high-quality training in accident prevention and compliance, especially for sectors like fire and security.
6. Learning at Work Week – 12-18 May 2025
This annual event celebrates and promotes workplace learning and professional development. It encourages employers and employees to embrace new skills, foster collaboration, and create a culture of continuous improvement.
7. The Emergency Services Show – 17-18 September 2025
Held annually in Birmingham, this event showcases training, technology, and innovation for the fire, police, and rescue services.
8. Emergency Services Day (999 Day) – 9 September 2025
This day celebrates the dedication of emergency services professionals, providing an opportunity to highlight the role of training and qualifications in ensuring their success.
9. World Mental Health Day – 10 October 2025
Focussed on well-being at work, this day is essential for all sectors, especially those with high-pressure roles such as fire and rescue.
10. Institute of Fire Engineers Annual Conference – Autumn 2025
This UK-based conference offers insights into best practices, innovation, and training programmes for fire and rescue professionals.
Monthly awareness events and observances
Awareness months provide a valuable opportunity to spotlight critical issues, amplify voices and celebrate progress. The following months highlight themes that resonate not only within our sectors but also across the global community:
- February: LGBT+ History Month – promoting inclusion and diversity in education, training, and professional development across all sectors.
- March: Women’s History Month – an opportunity to celebrate women’s contributions to fire, rescue, security, and beyond.
- October: Black History Month – a time to focus on diversity and inclusion in training programmes and professional achievements within the sectors.
From apprenticeships to workplace safety and diversity, 2025 offers a variety of dates to celebrate and contribute to the UK’s evolving protective services workforce. Mark your calendars and get involved.
Don’t want to miss a thing? Follow our social media channels (LinkedIn and X) for the latest updates and insights on all the sector-relevant events.