Sixteen new wholetime recruits begin careers at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service

We have welcomed 16 new wholetime firefighters to our service this month, with the new recruits set to take on an intensive 15-week training programme.

The programme will see them carry out a series of tasks that will equip them with the practical and technical skills needed to meet the demands of a modern-day firefighter.

These include training sessions on hose and ladder use, breathing apparatus, hazardous materials, water rescue, working at heights, prevent and protect, road traffic collisions and trauma care, accompanied by multiple assessments.

Once they have completed the course, a special presentation ceremony will be held in the summer, before the firefighters are posted to stations across Staffordshire. 

When asked about their reasons for joining Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, our new recruits gave a huge range of explanations which included being inspired by firefighters in their personal lives, wanting to give back to the community and experience working in search and rescue teams.

Three of our new recruits have also worked as an on-call firefighter for a number of years.

Learning and Development Station Manager Duncan Cole, said: “We are excited to welcome our 2025 wholetime course new recruits as they begin their 15-week initial firefighter training course.

“This journey will challenge them physically and mentally, but it will develop them in a number of different ways learning new skills and personal attributes. This will prepare them for one of the most rewarding careers protecting lives whilst serving our communities within Staffordshire.

If you are interested in a career at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and would like to learn more, visit our website: Careers | Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service