National Firearms Instructor

Shape the next generation of armed police

As a National Firearms Instructor with the Ministry of Defence Police, you'll play a pivotal role in developing the next generation of specialist officers who protect our nation's Defence assets. This rewarding position places you at the heart of our training, ensuring every officer reaches the highest standards of firearms proficiency and tactical capability.

Your role and impact

You'll deliver the College of Policing National Police Firearms Training Curriculum to officers across our Force, preparing new recruits through Initial Firearms Courses and providing essential guidance during range and tactical training. Your expertise ensures our officers achieve the standards required to qualify as Authorised Firearms Officers Counter Terrorism (AFO CT).

Beyond initial training, you'll provide continued professional development to serving officers through tactical refresher training, development shooting, and qualification ranges. This vital work maintains our operational readiness and ensures our officers remain at the forefront of their policing capabilities.

Professional development journey

Your path to becoming a National Firearms Instructor includes achieving the industry-standard Level 3 Award in Education and Training. We provide opportunities to pursue advanced qualifications including Level 4 Certificate in Education and Teaching, whereby you'll design and deliver National Firearms Instructor Courses yourself.

Enhanced first aid qualification is part of your development, with opportunities to become a lead trainer in this critical area, further expanding your skills and impact within the Force.

Specialist pathways

The role offers exciting development opportunities across multiple specialisms, including:

• Waterborne AFO training

• Tactical Firearms Unit instruction

• Special Escort Group operations

• National Rifle Officer development

• Operational Support Units

• Command Training delivery

These pathways provide opportunities to develop advanced expertise while enhancing the specialist capabilities that define Defence policing.