Stages & Key Dates

To become a Firefighter you will have to undertake a series of tests designed to assess your suitability for the role.

The first stages are designed to make an initial assessment of your potential to work as a firefighter using a range of specifically designed tests and questions which examine the fitness, qualities and basic knowledge you need for the role. Firefighter recruitment is always a competitive process, with an extremely high number of applicants competing for a small number of roles.

Stage 1   |  Fitness test

The first element of the process is to register your interest online.  Following on from this, the recruitment team will be in touch to invite you to attend a fitness test.  This will be in the form of a bleep test. You must be able to attend on one of the dates offered in order to progress in the process.   In order to pass the bleep test you must achieve level 8.8, this is the national standard for the Fire Service.

Candidates are allowed to reapply if they fail. But if they book a slot and do not attend then they will be not be eligible to apply for the next 12 months. 

What is the bleep test? Watch this video to make sure you are prepared.

Stage 2  |  Application Form

Once you have passed the fitness test, you will be invited to complete an online application form and eligibility questions.  Applications will be scored and successful candidates will be sent a link to proceed to the ability tests.

Stage 3  |  Practical Physical Selection Testing

Watch the physical tests and sample exercises in preparation to the testing.

Stage 4  |  Ability Tests (Numerical and Verbal Reasoning)

Each ability test will be timed per question. All questions will have a list of potential answers to choose from, one of which will be the correct answer. The length of each test is between 15-20 minutes long.

Please find below links to practice tests:

Numerical reasoning test  |  Example

Verbal reasoning test  |  Example

Stage 5  |  Assessment Centre and Interview

The Assessment Centre will consist of a range of behavioural-style interview questions, role play, teamwork task and literacy skills test.

Stage 6  |  Medical and HR Checks

Medical checks, Baseline Security checks, References, Basic Disclosure and Barring Service check and Driving License check.  Uniform and kit issued.

Stage 7 |  Recruits commence 13 week training course

This will be held at our new HQ training facility in Birkenshaw from January 2025.

 

Register your interest in becoming a West Yorkshire firefighter