DACO Peter Heath answered questions this morning - Thursday, November 23 about the upcoming #PeopleLikeYou wholetime firefighter recruitment campaign.
DACO Peter Heath ready to take your questions today. Tweet us now using #PeopleLikePeter pic.twitter.com/HUlXrtDPHX
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
See his answers below:
Q: I've passed all the online exams in the past when applying for the retained when applying again for whole time would I need to sit them again?
yes, as its a fresh process you would but be confident and go for it! https://t.co/NCaOG8f4Rs
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Is there a stand out personal attribute that you're hoping to gain from applicants this time round?
difficult to single out one but if I had to, it would be enthusiasm. followed quickly by dedication, commitment and tenacity. https://t.co/VYD5dEck8T
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Have you any tips and tricks for filling in the application form? and also how likely are you to get posted to your preferred location?
there is a good guidance document on our website that sets out how to approach the application, link below. https://t.co/V7BisQy8gN https://t.co/WC6J65Kqow
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Can people outside the UK apply for a wholetime firefighter position?
Yes, there are a number of checks needed in terms of right to work in the UK, but if interested check out the requirements on line for working in the UK. https://t.co/TEFUAYw7F3
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: 1) In the application and the interview, is it better to focus on situations related to work/study but not to emergencies OR family/friends/voluntary work and emergencies/care 2) tips for those with no experience of practical aspects of selection process
when considering the questions ask yourself, what is the example that would best highlight your abilities and experience and focus on that. the panel will work to expand on this if needed. its about you, so choose your best. https://t.co/aQoFUi0eQy
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: What stations are you looking to recruit for and what are the shifts like ?
we have vacancies across all of Scotland and we anticipate looking to fill these where we can. https://t.co/SEgsG5duRd
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: What is the upper age limit and qualifications needed?
All applications are treated on merit. In terms of qualification, there is a minimum standard to be achieved but if you don't have the minimum you will be asked to do a small online test instead. Its open to all. also, min age 18yrs but no upper limit. https://t.co/2YqbLoANug
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: What's the best thing about being a firefighter?
For me, its about getting to make a difference and know that what you are doing as part of a team is helping others. also, learning new skills and getting to build on these and share with others. Every day is an adventure and opportunity! https://t.co/wEWtsfahcs
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Out of all the initial applications, roughly what percentage move on the mathematical stage?
Honestly, I am not too sure as it varies with each campaign and the number of people who apply. However, as the lotto say,...it could be you. https://t.co/QdPNPZZKOl
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Is 34 too old to be applying for the role of whole time firefighter?
Absolutely NOT. If you have what it takes, we want to hear from you. The SFRS thrives on variety, difference and we build strong teams through the contributions of individuals. #attitude https://t.co/BREgW91cAe
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Would being only 18 affect my chances in comparison to someone who has a bit more life experience?
No. Its about what you can bring and offer. Experience is one important aspect but you will have the opportunity to tell us about you, your strengths, drive and what you can bring. https://t.co/SyZM9bWPPU
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Will there be any evening firefighter information events held?
Currently there are no formal evening sessions planned we have morning 1000-1200 hrs and PM 1230-1430 hrs, Details on the website. https://t.co/YmhPgD1i9t
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Do you have any advice for people who are going to be applying in the upcoming recruitment process?
Get someone to check over your application, take your time and make every word count. what best highlights you and makes you stand out. Check out the guidance on our website. https://t.co/V7BisQy8gN https://t.co/rlnjFHsckX
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Can you wear glasses or contact lenses when being a firefighter?
Yes, there are eyesight standards that need to be met given the safety critical nature of the job but check out the website for more detail. my advice, Get your application in and let us consider it.https://t.co/V7BisQy8gN https://t.co/Xf87l2BrOF
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: How many vacancies are known to be available.? will this year be even harder to get in due to the people in last years pool getting priority?
We are launching this campaign as we expect, in addition to current vacancies to be filling a large number in the coming year. Get your application in. https://t.co/EsskwqMR5k
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: If I am successful and I am invited to training what would be the training dates?
We are looking to get a pool of candidates to cover all of next year and are seeking candidates for an initial course around April/May 2018. More thereafter. https://t.co/3aUOzjp4co
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Can you tell me the salary?
Firefighter starting salary is £21,125 during initial 14 week training course, rising to £22,004 during your development phase once competent, £28,156. Competence is generally achieved around 30- 36 months. https://t.co/PbNgD3c9ce
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Would having a criminal record for a motoring offence make me ineligible?
No, every application is judged on merit and WE DO require that you declare unspent convictions at application stage but this is not an automatic knock out question. We are interested in your application and you. https://t.co/zjeHslBCWQ
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Would you say the role of whole time firefighter is now a lot about fire prevention and education?
Its always been about education and prevention but the focus is really on working with communities and others to educate, inform and prevent. Its a varied career and job and prevention is critical to our work. https://t.co/h3AM9sO78H
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Based on current and upcoming campaigns, which age group would gaining experience with be most valuable?
We are focussed on what people can offer less than what age they are. Teams need a mixture of people and for me, attitude every day shines through. https://t.co/ZbAf8M9is4
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
Q: Might using situations drawn from your involvement with disabled people's organisations as a disabled person affect your interview negatively? is any disclosure of disability still secret at interview stage?
We ask people to declare any disabilities at application stage to ensure we put the necessary support and adjustments in place throughout the process. Interviews are judged on merit. https://t.co/9ySxA2GRI1
— Scot Fire and Rescue (@fire_scot) November 23, 2017
