Eligibility checklist
Are you:
- Over 17 and a half years old at the time of application? (There is no upper age limit.)
- A UK/EU citizen or a permanent UK resident with no work restrictions?
- In possession of a full UK or EU driving licence, either manual or automatic
- Willing to get an LGV driving licence within 18 months of joining?
- Prepared to be clean-shaven to safely wear breathing apparatus whilst fighting fires?
- Free from any unspent criminal convictions?
All candidates applying for the firefighter role must hold a full UK or EU driving licence to ensure we provide the emergency cover London needs to keep its communities safe. You need a full licence (with Category C) to be able to gain the LGV qualification. Category C is a requirement before people can become a blue light qualified driver.
If you meet the criteria above, you can apply during our next recruitment period.
Qualifications
No specific qualifications are required to become a firefighter. However, if you do not have English and Maths at GCSE Grade C (or equivalent), you will need to complete Functional Skills as part of the apprenticeship.
Skills and behaviours
In addition to good fitness levels, the diverse role of a firefighter means we’re looking for people with the following skills and personal qualities:
- Able to work with the public
- Being flexible and able to adapt to changing situations or demands of the job
- Good communication skills which include contributing your ideas, listening to others, and being clear and confident
- Being confident to take the lead and put yourself/ideas forward
- Quick thinking and problem-solving abilities, with clear communication of ideas
- Work as a team to support others
- Skills to organise and manage your time well
- Cope well under pressure
