Since 2001 all new entrants into the service have to undergo a 12 week Firefighter Foundation Development Programme at a UK training establishment. In the past these have taken place at the Fire Service College in Moreton-in-Marsh. As from June 2008 recruits have also used the facilities of Severn Park Fire and Rescue Training Centre, Bristol.

The Foundation Development Programme course imparts the knowledge, skills and understanding required to undertake the role of firefighter and to further develop and hone their skills in the workplace as part of a development programme. The course is based on the firefighter role maps, with technical procedures taken from the Fire Service manuals. Students are assessed against the National Occupational Standards continually throughout the course. Successful students may apply for reciprocal qualification of the Institution of Fire Engineers Level II Certificate.

Following an induction period covering topics such as equalities, Health and Safety, manual handling, the course is delivered in modules. On completion, students will have demonstrated competence in basic skills, RTC, BA and First Aid. Other subjects include community safety, New Dimensions and water safety.

On their return to Gibraltar Firefighters continue their Development for their first year in which time they are required to undertake additional training in Rope Rescue techniques, Underwater Rescue (Sub-Aqua) capabilities and qualify as Ambulance First Responders.