Have you ever imagined becoming a firefighter – stepping forward when others step back, protecting your community, and doing a job that truly matters? Or maybe you’re ready for a complete change of direction and a career with purpose.
If so, this is your moment. Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) has officially opened applications for our next intake of Wholetime Firefighters.
Our firefighters are trusted, respected, and admired across Tyne and Wear. They carry forward a legacy built over generations – saving lives, supporting communities, and representing our region with pride.
What awaits successful applicants?
Those who secure a place on our 15-week training course, beginning January 2027 at our Service Headquarters in Washington, will take on a programme designed to push, challenge, and transform them.
Training includes:
- Breathing Apparatus
- Road Traffic Collisions
- Ladder Drills
- Hose Reels
- Live Fire Training
- Water Rescue
- Cobra Extinguishing System
- Trauma & First Aid
This is where future firefighters discover what they’re capable of.
A message from Assistant Chief Fire Officer Dave Leach
“We are honoured to invite applications for our latest wholetime firefighter recruitment course. TWFRS is proud to attract and develop some of the country’s finest firefighters.
“In recent years, our achievements have been recognised nationally, with TWFRS named Fire and Rescue Service of the Year by two respected organisations. We’re ready to build on that success by welcoming the next generation of lifesavers.
“Our crews wear their hearts on their sleeves. They represent this region with pride in everything they do.”
Firefighting isn’t one size fits all – and our recruits prove it.
Our latest recruits come from every walk of life – a microbiologist, a personal trainer, a teacher, a dental nurse, a tree surgeon, a salesperson, a vehicle inspector, a clinical care assistant and a builder’s labourer. Different skills. Different stories. One shared purpose. Transfer your skills. Transform lives.
Real voices. Real stories. Real inspiration.
Four firefighters from our most recent course share what drove them to join:
Clarisse Beaumont
“There’s no cookie cutter design to becoming a firefighter I proved a lot of people wrong, and now I can proudly say I did it.” Clarisse joined after a lifechanging moment made her realise she wanted a job where she could directly help people. She completed the course and now serves at West Denton, thriving in a role built on teamwork, purpose and adrenaline.
Ben Knox
“I was inspired to join because it’s a job like no other.” Ben swapped life as a vehicle inspector for a career that challenges him, pushes him, and gives him a buzz every single day. The training was tough, the pride was huge, and joining his watch for the first time was unforgettable.
Jack Peacock
“The main thing that inspired me to become a firefighter was the fact that every day you’re helping other people.” Jack’s best bit of advice to anybody looking to pursue a career as a firefighter is give it a go, as you never know unless you try it!
Owen Pullar
“I’m a local lad so I’ve grown up in the area, and I love the idea of being able to give something back to the community.” Owen thought that the training course was very intense both physically and mentally, but he felt an incredible sense of achievement at the end.
These stories began with one decision – to apply. Yours could too.
How to apply
All details and the application form for our latest Wholetime firefighter recruitment course can be found at: www.twfire.gov.uk/become-a-firefighter
Applications close Tuesday 7th April 2026 at 23:59.
Applicants must be 18 or over by 31st December 2026. Follow TWFRS on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for updates.
Good luck – your future could start here.