PLAR Process

From 1st May 2023, Fire and Rescue Training Centre FIRETRACK in Kiambu, in cooperation with Polish
Center for International Aid (PCPM), will start to provide the Prior Learning Assessment and
Recognition in the profession of firefighter under the regulations of TVETA.

To apply, click the button below (available from May 1, 2023)

What is PLAR?

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), also known as Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), refers to the process of identifying, assessing and certifying a person who possesses knowledge, skills and competencies acquired in non-formally or informally through work or life experiences, against prescribed standards or learning outcomes (KNQA; 2020). The main aim is to enable such a person to gain access to a formal qualification that matches their knowledge and skills.

Who is it for?

Fire brigade officers without formal qualifications in the profession of a firefighter (fire management), but with professional experience and informal qualifications acquired during training, courses and exercises.

Which qualification can be recognised?

PLAR candidates will be assessed against unit standards and qualifications registered on the Kenya National Qualification Framework (KNQF). FIRETRACK, as a PLAR provider, identified following competencies to be assessed:

  • Qualification: 103203T4: Fire Management Level 3 – Pump Operation
  • Qualification: 103204T4: Fire Management Level 4 – Technical Rescue
  • Qualification: 103206T4: Fire Management Level 6 - Fire Management

Based on the candidate's biodata and portfolio, our advisor will indicate the proposed level of qualifications that can be recognised.

What will the process look like?

The process consist of the following stages:

  1. Initial application

    • The commencement of the process will be announced on firetrack.ke website, facebook fanpage and sent to CFOA members
    • Candidates can submit their biodata through the online or offline form

  2. Initial assessment

    • PLAR Advisor meets candidate (online) and identifies the accurate competency level
    • Discussion and identification of types and quantity of evidence to be submitted

  3. Orientation and registration

    • Assessor guides the Candidate about the procedure and requirements
    • Instructions on how to prepare a portfolio are provided
    • Registration is made and an interview is planned

  4. Pre-Assessment

    • Assessor with PLAR Advisor and Candidate develops an assessment plan
    • Selection of the type, quality and sources of evidence is made on the basis of the portfolio
    • Dates and times are set for the final assessment

  5. Assessment

    • Portfolio review and professional discussion
    • Credential review – past certification and training documents
    • Practical demonstration

  6. Certification

    • External Verification and processing of certification takes place
    • The certificates issued corresponds with the normal training certificates

  7. Post-certification guidance and support

    • FIRETRACK provides Post-certification guidance and support: suggest further training to increase competence or fill gaps

Skill gaps

If skill gaps are identified during pre-assessment or any other stage, the Candidate must undergo additional training before proceeding to the next stage (e.g. if you are applying for level 4 and have not completed rope rescue training you must undertake it first).

It should be taken into account that sometimes skill gaps will not be possible to fill in a short amount of time or are too large in order to apply for a given level of competence. For this reason, the process can be significantly longer for some Candidates.

FIRETRACK does not ensure skill gaps training for everyone due to the limited possibilities.

What are the costs?

The process is available to anyone who meets the prerequisites and joining it is free. However, there are some small fees possible related to certification.

I would like to apply