Frequently Asked Questions

Select a question below to see the full answer.

Are qualifications needed?

No formal qualifications are required to join North East Fire Services, however, applicants are required to be successful in various psychometric tests before being invited to attend the physical assessments.

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Are there any career prospects?

Yes there are real promotional prospects. To achieve this you will be assessed on your potential to develop into a higher role. If successful you will attend an Assessment Development Centre (ADC) to determine the programme you require in order for you to progress to your next role. Once completed and competence has been demonstrated you will be considered for promotion when positions arise.

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Are there any height limits?

There are no maximum or minimum height limits.

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Can I apply if I wear glasses?

As part of the medical, candidates undergo an optician's examination. If you require glasses and depending on your eyesight, the Fire Service will equip you with prescription safety glasses.

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Does diabetes, dyslexia or colour blindness restrict my application?

Any medical queries will be referred to the Recruitment and Selection team at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service prior to applying.

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How much annual leave would I be entitled to?

Within Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, on entry the paid Annual Leave entitlement is 25 allocated 'A' days and 13 other days (inclusive of bank holidays). However, other Fire Services may vary leave entitlement to suit local conditions.

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How will I know when you are recruiting for firefighters?

Although we cannot confirm exact dates for forthcoming recruitment campaigns you can ensure you don't miss out by registering on our mailing list. Once we begin to recruit you will be sent an email with further instructions on how to get an application pack.

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If I am successful what salary can I expect?

The salary for Trainee Wholetime Firefighters is £20,896, per annum rising to £21,766 throughout the Firefighter development programme. Salary once competent will rise to £27,851.

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If invited for interview, what questions will be asked?

The questions you are asked during interview will be based on the nationally agreed Personal Qualities and Attributes that a Firefighter requires in order to carry out the role. Should you be successful at the Physical Tests and invited for interview, you will have access to an interview practice booklet prior to attending.

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Is there a pension scheme?

With effect from 6 April 2006 new entrants will be eligible to join the New Firefighters Pension Scheme however membership is not compulsory. You have the option of joining the state earnings related pension scheme (SERPS) or take out a personal pension.

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What are the age limits?

You must be 18 years of age to become a firefighter. Applications are welcomed by those under 18 but only if the applicant will be 18 by the time training begins. There is no upper age limit for applications.

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What hours will I be expected to work?

During training, trainees work Monday to Friday between 08:00 and 18:00, with additional hours as determined by the Training Centre Manager. Once training is complete, your hours of duty average 42 hours per week, working on a rotating shift pattern: 2 days, 2 nights followed by 4 days off.

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What training can I expect to receive?

Your continued employment is subject to the satisfactory completion of the trainee Firefighter course and subsequently successful completion of the firefighter development programme. As a Firefighter your training is challenging but enjoyable and each North East Fire and Rescue Service coordinates their own comprehensive training programme which may last up to 16 weeks, some of this may be 'on the job' training.

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When are you next recruiting for firefighters?

We are unable to determine when the next recruitment campaign will be, much will depend upon the operational needs of each of the Fire and Rescue Services. This could also be affected by the number of people leaving the service through retirements etc. To be informed by email of any recruitment activities, please sign-up to our Firefighter Recruitment Mailing List.

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Which station will I be based at?

On completion of initial training recruits may be posted anywhere within the Service area dependant on operational needs. We try to ensure that firefighters are posted to a station within reasonable distance of their home address but this cannot be guaranteed.

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Will I have to pay for my uniform?

Uniform is provided free of charge including any Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that may be issued to you.

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