Six new firefighters have been welcomed by Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) after completing an intensive 8-week course at the Fire Service College and a 3 week consolidation course in service.
During the course, the trainees learned all of the skills they need to begin their careers as firefighters, including core skills, technical rescue and breathing apparatus training.
The course culminated in a graduation ceremony was held at Pincents Manor on Friday, 18 May. During the event, the new trainees showed off their new skills to their proud families and friends by demonstrating the various equipment they will be using in their careers and taking part in a road traffic collision exercise.
Guests at the event included the Deputy-Lieutenant of Berkshire, Mr Richard Griffiths and the Mayor of Bracknell, Councillor Tina McKenzie-Boyle, Chairman of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, Councillor Colin Dudley, other members of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, and Chief Fire Officer, Trevor Ferguson.
Certificates and awards were also presented at the graduation ceremony, including the Silver Axe, awarded to Sam Underwood for achieving the highest performance during the course and the Endeavour Award, presented to Jack Brent, who was chosen for the award by his instructors for demonstrating a notable commitment to trying their best consistently throughout the course and displaying an exemplary attitude to learning.
Councillor Colin Dudley, Chairman of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, said: “I am immensely proud to welcome six new firefighter trainees today on behalf of the Royal Berkshire Fire Authority.
“I am sure that there will be many challenges ahead in their careers, but they will face them emboldened by the training and knowledge they have acquired during the last 11 weeks. They will also do so knowing that they are making a real difference to the people of Royal Berkshire.”
Trevor Ferguson, Chief Fire Officer, said: “I would like to extend a very warm welcome to our new firefighters and my congratulations on passing their initial training course. The course was very demanding and I know they all worked exceptionally hard to reach the required standards.
“I wish them every success as they begin their career in public service and continue on their learning journey. I am sure they will enjoy the privilege of serving our community for many years to come.”
Three of the new firefighters will be based at Slough Fire Station, two will be based at Maidenhead Fire Station and one will be based at Newbury Fire Station.