Get to know our new recruits

‘Fulfilling’, ‘consolidating’ and ‘an amazing experience’ are the words some of our latest recruits used to describe their first few weeks of training on their journey to becoming firefighters in Staffordshire.

Last month, we welcomed 16 new firefighters to our service, who are now undertaking a programme which will equip them with the practical and technical skills needed to meet the demands of a modern-day firefighter.

Lauryn Flanagan, who is 21-years-old and from Burntwood, said: “I’m really enjoying the experience so far and I love learning and physical sides with the ladders and pumps.”

Another new recruit, Scott Wilson, who is 37-years-old and from Macclesfield, worked as an on-call firefighter for six years before becoming a full-time firefighter this year.

He said the training has been ‘really interesting so far’ and he is enjoying ‘consolidating the skills’.

Ruth Hamilton, aged 40, from Newcastle-under-Lyme, decided to join the fire service because she ‘loves working with the community’.

She said: “I applied to become a firefighter because it’s something I’ve always wanted to do and I love being a role model for young girls who might look at this sector and think it’s predominantly for males.

“I’ve found some aspects of the course really fun but it can also be really challenging as well. It’s great to be learning something new.”

Station Manager Duncan Cole, said: “Since our 15-week initial firefighter training course began last month, our new recruits have been learning all the technical and practical skills they will need on the job.

“It challenges them physically and mentally but all of our new recruits are doing really well and we’re all looking forward to the special presentation ceremony in the summer where all their hard work will be recognised.”

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.