The Association offered a uniformed, disciplined organisation with a varied but structured program of learning. This program had a Fire Service background, although no member need be an aspiring firefighter.
 

The creation of the YFA was seen as an excellent opportunity to raise the awareness of fire safety and the role of the Fire service with young people. Coupled with these intentions, an active involvement with the Duke of Edinburgh's Award was seen as an aid to support the main objectives of the YFA: assist character development in young people; promote mental, physical and social well-being; give continuity of training and assist with extended education; foster the spirit of adventure, and develop the qualities of leadership.

In 1988 each of the five Divisions of the West Midlands Fire Service was given the opportunity to create its own autonomous group as the pilot scheme showed great promise. Aston remained the base for "A" Division whilst Coventry, Ladywood, Dudley and Wolverhampton became "homes" for YFA groups in the other Divisions. During later years an additional five branches have opened at West Bromwich, Wednesbury, Sheldon, Binley and Foleshill, and there are now over 200 Young Firefighters in the West Midlands. Nationally, many Brigades now run similar schemes and internationally the scheme is well developed, particularly in Germany, where there are over 150,000 YFA members.