trainee fire fighter Review
at County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Firefighter
Durham (County Durham)
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
5/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
As a trainee firefighter in the UK, my role involves a mix of training, safety work, and real-life emergencies. One of the most important tasks is carrying out regular checks on our equipment, making sure everything from hoses to breathing apparatus is in top condition and ready to go when needed. Community safety is also a big part of what we do, as we get involved in activities like fire prevention talks and safety campaigns to help people stay safe and prepared.
Physical fitness is a key focus too, as we need to be strong and fit for the demanding work of firefighting. I take part in regular exercise to build endurance and strength. On top of that, we do regular drills to practice skills like firefighting techniques and rescue operations, so we're ready for anything that comes our way.
When we're called out to emergencies, whether it's a fire, a road accident, or a rescue, we respond as a team to help those in need. It's all about being ready, working together, and keeping the community safe.
Physical fitness is a key focus too, as we need to be strong and fit for the demanding work of firefighting. I take part in regular exercise to build endurance and strength. On top of that, we do regular drills to practice skills like firefighting techniques and rescue operations, so we're ready for anything that comes our way.
When we're called out to emergencies, whether it's a fire, a road accident, or a rescue, we respond as a team to help those in need. It's all about being ready, working together, and keeping the community safe.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I’d say I absolutely love my program!
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
As a trainee firefighter, I’ve picked up a bunch of useful skills along the way. I’ve gotten pretty comfortable with checking and maintaining our gear, making sure everything’s ready to go when it’s needed. Physical fitness is key too—keeping myself strong and fit means I can handle the tough stuff, whether that’s fighting fires or helping with rescues.
Working as part of a team is another big part of the job, and I’ve learned how to communicate well with my colleagues, especially in those high-pressure moments. I’ve also gotten better at thinking on my feet and making quick decisions when things get hectic.
On top of that, I’ve gotten used to handling stress and staying calm in emergency situations. And I've had the chance to connect with the community through safety talks, which has helped me get better at explaining fire prevention in a way people can understand.
All the training and drills have helped develop my firefighting skills, making sure I’m always ready to jump into action when needed. It’s all about being prepared and working together.
Working as part of a team is another big part of the job, and I’ve learned how to communicate well with my colleagues, especially in those high-pressure moments. I’ve also gotten better at thinking on my feet and making quick decisions when things get hectic.
On top of that, I’ve gotten used to handling stress and staying calm in emergency situations. And I've had the chance to connect with the community through safety talks, which has helped me get better at explaining fire prevention in a way people can understand.
All the training and drills have helped develop my firefighting skills, making sure I’m always ready to jump into action when needed. It’s all about being prepared and working together.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
very well organised and structured.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
receive lots of support from my employer always someone who is willing to help
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
constant support throughout my qualification.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The training has been really useful so far. It’s given me a good mix of knowledge and practical skills that I can actually use on the job. Getting hands-on experience with the equipment and working alongside my team during drills has definitely boosted my confidence. It’s also kept me up to speed on safety procedures and firefighting techniques, which I know are super important. Overall
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yeah, there are definitely some extra-curricular activities to get involved in at work. For example, we’ve got a football team and a boxing team, which are great ways to stay active, build teamwork, and have some fun outside of the regular shifts. We also hold charity events throughout the year, like fundraisers and community outreach
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I’d definitely recommend CDDFRS to a friend because it's not just a job it’s a chance to be part of a tight knit team that really looks out for each other. The training is top-notch, and you’re always learning new skills to help you grow in your career.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue?
If you're applying to County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue, I'd say the most important thing is to stay fit and prepare yourself physically. The role can be demanding, so being in good shape is key. Also, take some time to learn about the service itself, understand what they do, and know the basics of fire safety. This will help you show that you’re really committed and understand the job.
The fire service is all about teamwork, so being able to communicate and work well with others is super important. You’ll need to be adaptable, reliable, and ready to support your team in any situation. The job can also be challenging, both physically and mentally, so it helps to have a positive mindset and be prepared for the pressure.
The fire service is all about teamwork, so being able to communicate and work well with others is super important. You’ll need to be adaptable, reliable, and ready to support your team in any situation. The job can also be challenging, both physically and mentally, so it helps to have a positive mindset and be prepared for the pressure.
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