Have you got what it takes to be a firefighter? Apply now for rare opportunity in Staffordshire
TIME is running out to get applications in for a rare opportunity to fight fires across Staffordshire.
The deadline is fast approaching for people to apply to be a wholetime firefighter at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, in just the second recruitment campaign the service has held in a decade.
More than 800 people have applied so far for only 35 places, but fire chiefs are encouraging even more to put pen to paper on why they want to work in the service.
Chief fire officer Becci Bryant said: "Last year’s recruitment drive saw a fantastic group of new trainee firefighters join the service - we had 1,350 apply - and I am very pleased to be opening applications again.
"It's really good news. Of course the reason we need more staff is that wholetime firefighters do retire, or get promoted, or move to different departments.
"It's not the job today that is was when I started 20-odd years ago. Some people think it's all about answering emergency calls but it's also working with communities and helping them become safer. We are still fighting fires, but just a different kind of fire.
"It’s important that applicants understand that our recruitment is all encompassing – while we want to increase the diversity of our workforce each applicant will be considered based on their skills and experience. So if you want a rewarding and challenging career, get your application in."
Aspiring firefighters will need to apply through the service's recruitment system and will then be invited to complete a series of online tests. Those successful will then progress to the next stage.
The final 35 apprentices will take part in a 15 week training course beginning at the end of summer this year.
Rachel Unitt, 35, who lives in Walsall and is stationed at Hanley, said: "Completing the course was one of proudest moments of my life and it’s an absolute honour to have passed. It’s been really physically and mentally challenging.
"I’ve always wanted to be a firefighter, since doing work experience at the fire service when I was at school. I wanted to do it as I love helping people and working as part of a team.
"There have been many highlights of the course but the road traffic collision extrication training and water rescue training were my favourite elements. I’m really looking forward to putting these skills into real life situations."
Visit staffordshirefire.gov.uk to apply before the deadline of Monday, February 19. Applicants must be aged 18 or over by the time the course starts at the end of August.
