The stages
The stages
1 Outreach Programme
Regardless of previous experience, it is a requirement to complete our three-step Outreach Programme in order to progress to the application process.
What is the Outreach Programme?
- First, you should attend an Outreach event to talk with our Outreach team about the role and ask any questions you might have, and we can learn more about you.
- You will then be instructed to sign up for an Information Session with our Outreach team, where you will be given a fuller picture of the Level 3 Operational Firefighting Apprenticeship, training school and the role.
- You will then need to sign up to an Outreach Experience Day, where you will have a chance to understand the practical aspects of the job.
After you have completed the Outreach Programme, you will be instructed on how to apply to become a firefighter.
Please note: there will be no events or expressions of interest for the firefighter role until April 2025.
2 Application
We want to make sure this is the right career choice for you and that you have all the information you need to make this important decision. The Outreach Programme gives you a chance to ask initial questions and for us to learn more about you. The information session will explain what the job involves, the salary and benefits, and an honest account of the things you will enjoy as well as the challenges you may face. Finally you will hear about the skills and values we’re looking for in our future firefighters and the application process.
3 Online tests
These must be completed at home and will be verified at the Assessment Centre as part of the next stage.
4 Assessment Centre
The Assessment Centre consists of a number of different types of assessment:
- Interview
- Roleplay
- Written exercise
- Online test
If you’re successful you’ll progress to the physical fitness tests.
5 Fitness tests
Candidates will be required to pass a two days of physical tests which include:
Day 1
- Chester Treadmill Exercise
Day 2
- Ladder climb
- Ladder lift
- Casualty evacuation
- Enclosed space
- Equipment assembly
- Equipment carry
Check out our Fitness tests page for more information about this stage.
6 Medical exam and eye test
If you successfully pass the physical tests you will be asked to attend a medical where you will be examined by our medical team. You will be asked to complete a questionnaire covering your medical history and will then be subject to a series of tests. Your medical records may also need to be obtained from your GP.
What are the eyesight requirements?
Wearing glasses or contact lenses isn't a problem, but you'll need to meet certain requirements, including ‘acceptable’ colour vision. Also, only certain types of laser eye surgery are permitted, and you'll need to wait one year after laser eye surgery before you will be considered.
Full details about the range of eye tests you'll need to pass will be provided during the selection process.
What if I am colour blind?
You will still be able to apply. If you get to the medical stage of the recruitment process, the seriousness of your colour deficiency will be assessed and a risk assessment will be made.
If you pass the medical requirements, we'll ask you for references.
7 References
You'll be asked to provide:
- Enhanced DBS check
- 3 year history including proof of study, travel and unemployment
- If you're self-employed approximately 5 references will be requested
- No personal references are allowed (unless you have worked in a family business)
Once we receive your references and DBS and have checked them, you'll move on to full training.
8 Training
In this stage you'll complete a 15 week training course as part of your Level 3 Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship. This incorporates a 2 week induction program followed by an 11 week practical training phase and 2 week pre-station training.
During these 15 weeks you will earn the trainee firefighter salary of £32,280 pa including London Weighting.
When you’ve successfully completed your training course you’ll have a pass out ceremony, and will move onto a fire station where you will continue your training on-the-job.