How to become a firefighter
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- a fire service training course
College
You could take a college course before applying to join the fire service as a trainee, though this is not essential.
Courses include:
- public services
- fire and recue services in the community
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You could apply for an Operational Firefighter Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship with a fire and rescue service.
The apprenticeship takes about 2 years and combines on-the-job training with off-site study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- GCSEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, in English and maths
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Volunteering
Volunteering or working in a support role, for example emergency call handling or fire safety home visits, will give you an idea of what the job is like, as well as access to internal vacancies. You'll usually need to be 18 or over.
Most fire and rescue services also run a Fire Cadets scheme. They're typically aimed at young people aged between 13 and 17 and offer a few hours' training each week in:
- basic fire fighting drills
- using equipment
- first aid
- fire safety
Contact your local fire service to find out more about volunteering opportunities and fire cadets.
Direct Application
You can apply directly to join the fire service. Each service sets its own entry requirements.
Many ask for GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths, or equivalent qualifications.
The selection process can take some time and involves:
- online aptitude tests
- attendance at an assessment centre
- fitness and medical checks
- interviews
Fire services hold regular outreach events where you can speak to firefighters about the job and register your interest for upcoming vacancies.
Other Routes
You may be able to join the fire service as an on-call firefighter.
You'll be trained to deal with a broad range of incidents in return for a commitment to provide shift cover during days, nights and weekends. This is a paid position and could lead to a full-time role when opportunities arise.
You can also train to be a firefighter in the Royal Air Force (RAF).
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Career tips
Fire services take on new recruits at different times of the year, so check with your local fire service to find out when they are recruiting next.
Further information
You can contact your local fire and rescue service for a firefighter careers information and recruitment pack.