The next generation of firefighters completed their initial training course and celebrated their graduation at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service’s Eastleigh headquarters this week – including Islander Euan Kerr. The recruits marked the end of their 17-week intensive training course with the Learning and Development team and are now set to join their new crews on stations across the region where they will continue their development. Former Harbourmaster Euan Kerr, from Cowes, is set to respond to incidents across the Isle of Wight with Newport’s Green Watch. Since their first day back in August the squad of 8 have been taught the skills of a modern-day firefighter. From running out hose reels to pitching ladders, experiencing live fire and performing RTC rescues, the graduates have been put through their paces to ensure they are prepared to embark on a career often dubbed as ‘the best job in the world.’ Chief Fire Officer Neil Odin has said:
“Once again it is a great privilege to be able to welcome new people into our fire service family. “These graduates have been through a rigorous application process and training programme, and they now find themselves starting upon an exciting new career which will both challenge and reward them. “Throughout their time with our Learning and Development team, our recruits have displayed all the attributes we expect from our firefighters. They will arrive on station ready to help make life safer across Hampshire and Isle of Wight.”
Learning and Development Station Manager Lacey Plumbley said:
“In their short time with us our graduates have been trained on how we tackle fires, respond to road collisions, provide medical care and deliver vital safety messaging. “They have demonstrated the values and behaviours we expect from our people and I have no doubt they will arrive on station ready to work closely with their new crews. “I want to thank our team within Learning and Development, who have delivered an excellent programme which has moulded our trainees into the professional firefighters they are today.”
