Scuba diver instructor and lifeguard join fourth batch of new recruits training to be Staffordshire firefighters

Sixteen new recruits, including a former scuba diver instructor and lifeguard, are around half-way through their journeys to becoming full-time firefighters in Staffordshire.

They began training in March and have been busy learning the practical and technical skills needed day-to-day as a firefighter.

Sam Thorington, 23, is one of our youngest new recruits and used to work as a scuba diver in South East Asia.

He said: “When I was out in Thailand I realised how much I liked helping people and how well I cope under pressure.

“As soon as I came back from Thailand I started applying to join the fire service.

“The course so far has been quite intense, there’s a lot to learn but it’s been fun.”

Harley Dennison, 29, previously worked as a lifeguard at a leisure centre in the Staffordshire Moorlands.

She joined the force last summer as an on-call firefighter and decided to apply to do the role full-time.

Harley said: “The course so far is amazing, I’ve done some of the things before but it’s a new experience and the instructors are fab”.

Another one of our new recruits who has previously worked as an on-call firefighter is Shaun Gaskin, who worked in Prevent at Chase Terrace fire station.

He said: “Working as a full-time firefighter is something I’ve always wanted to do and I’ve been applying for this role for around eight years now.

“It’s a competitive job but I’d recommend it to anyone. It’s intense, physical and there’s a lot to learn but it’s good fun and I’ve made some good friends”.

Joe Urie, 24, previously worked at Royal Stoke Hospital within the lung cancer team.

He said he wanted a ‘varied’ job where ‘everyday would be different and I could feel like I was giving back and helping others within my local community’.

Joe said: “I’m really enjoying the course so far, it’s vary varied, physical and mentally challenging but it’s fantastic so far”.

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