Looking to begin an exciting new career? Following National Apprenticeship Week, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) is now recruiting its next cohort of Wholetime Firefighter Apprentices.
Open to people who are new to firefighting, the Service’s Wholetime apprenticeship programme is a direct pathway into a rewarding career in the fire and rescue services.
“We’re looking for resourceful and committed people who want to make a difference in their community to join us,” said Katie Mills, Assistant Chief Fire Officer at RBFRS.
“Our Wholetime apprenticeships are an excellent opportunity for people interested in beginning their firefighting career. During your apprenticeship, you’ll learn the fundamental firefighting skills you’ll need for an exciting career in the public service.
“After completing your basic training, you’ll join up with a watch and develop in the role by responding to incidents, engaging with communities and keeping people safe.
“Upon completion of the apprenticeship, you will become a fully competent firefighter with opportunities to specialise further and progress within the fire and rescue sector.”
The application window will close at 9am on Monday, 16 March. To find out more and apply, please visit the Wholetime Firefighter recruitment page.
Next Steps
As part of the apprenticeship, the Service is 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 new 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.