Looking to step into an exciting new career? We are now recruiting our next cohort of Wholetime Firefighter Apprentices.
For the second time this year, the Service is offering people who are new to firefighting a direct pathway into a rewarding career through our Wholetime Firefighter Apprenticeship programme.
“Over the past five years, our Wholetime Apprenticeship Pathway has been a wonderful source of continued success for the Service,” said Mark Arkwell, Chief Fire Officer at RBFRS.
“So far, we’ve welcomed more than 100 Wholetime Firefighters through the Programme with the latest cohort set to begin their training shortly.”
“The Apprenticeship offers an exciting opportunity for people to begin a career in firefighting, be part of an amazing emergency service and ultimately help create safer communities here in Royal Berkshire.”
We are recruiting for our newest apprentices for the next three weeks, with the recruitment window opening from Tuesday, 7 to Monday, 27 July.
The Wholetime Firefighter apprenticeships are an opportunity for people with no prior experience in firefighting to begin a new career. During the Apprenticeship, recruits learn the fundamental firefighting skills needed for a dynamic career in the public service.
“The Apprenticeship offers an exciting opportunity for people to begin a career in firefighting, be part of an amazing emergency service and ultimately help create safer communities here in Royal Berkshire.”
Mark Arkwell, Chief Fire Officer
After completing basic training, apprentices continue their development alongside a watch at one of Berkshire’s fire stations. There, they respond to incidents, engage with communities and keep people safe.
Upon completion of the apprenticeship, there are further opportunities to specialise and progress within the fire and rescue sector.
To find out more and apply, please visit the Wholetime Firefighter page on our website.
Next Steps
As part of the Apprenticeship, we are welcoming applicants from any background or walk of life, so long as they are new to firefighting. Remember, there is no stereotypical firefighter.
Applicants must live within 40 miles of Reading to qualify for the apprenticeship.
The recruitment procedure follows a five-step process. From the initial application through to the final medical, prospective firefighters are assessed on their attitude, aptitude and ability to work in a team.
Every application is assessed solely on merit and to the same standards.
Becoming a Firefighter
If successful, applicants will become Wholetime Firefighter Recruits and will be invited to complete a residential training course at the Fire Service College in Gloucestershire.
Upon completing the course, the Recruits will return Berkshire to complete further training at the Service’s Learning and Development Centre.
After completing their initial training, the Recruits will officially Graduate and become Wholetime Firefighters before joining a Watch at one of our 12 Wholetime Fire Stations.