Passing out parade held for new fire service recruits

We have welcomed a new cohort of firefighters to our teams across the county as part of a special ceremony marking the completion of their initial training.

The 16 newly-qualified firefighters took part in a passing out parade at our headquarters in Pirehill, near Stone, on Wednesday 5 June.

The ceremony, which was attended by friends and families of the trainees, saw the new firefighters demonstrate their skills and teamwork in a range of simulated incidents. It was held following the conclusion of 15 intense weeks of training.

The parade was attended by our principal officers including: Chief Fire Officer Rob Barber, Deputy Chief Fire Officer Glynn Luznyj, and Assistant Chief Fire Officer Michelle Hickmott. Group Managers Martin Weaver, James Green and David Steele along with others also attended the parade to celebrate the achievements of our new recruits.

During training, the apprentices also learned about prevention and protection; preparing them for the important work they will do in local communities when completing safe and well visits; community engagement and the importance of delivering safety messages in schools and businesses.

They were able to develop their operational and teamwork skills, learn how to use breathing apparatus, pump appliances, ladders, positive pressure ventilation systems, hydraulic cutting equipment, specialist water rescue equipment and emergency trauma care.

Following the parade, they will continue to develop their knowledge, skills and experience across our stations in Staffordshire.

Group Manager Martin Weaver, said: "The event marked an incredible milestone in the career of these new firefighters and is a significant day for the service.

“They can hold their heads high and be proud of what they have achieved having undertaken an intensive training programme.  

“The course has presented a range of challenges to all of the recruits at various times over the last 15 weeks, least of all the requirement to undertake assessments in both theory and practical.

“I'm extremely pleased and proud to see the hard work, dedication and professionalism of all 16 trainees in completing their initial course and I look forward to seeing them go on to realising their full potential throughout their operational firefighter apprenticeship.”

To find out more about training to become a firefighter with us, visit: Careers | Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service