Release date: 11 November 2026
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is inviting aspiring firefighters to attend a series of hands-on Discovery Sessions designed to provide a realistic insight into the role and help applicants prepare for recruitment in January 2027.
The free, in-person sessions, held at fire stations across West Sussex, are designed to provide a realistic introduction to life in the fire and rescue service. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the station environment, speak directly with firefighters and recruitment specialists, and take part in practical activities similar to those used during recruitment assessments.
As part of West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service's commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce, both open Discovery Sessions and dedicated women-focused sessions will be available. The women-focused events will provide an opportunity for women to hear from female firefighters, learn more about the role, and build confidence around the fitness and recruitment requirements.
The Discovery Sessions will take place at fire stations on the following dates:
Friday 27 November at Midhurst Fire Station
- 9am – 11am – Wholetime Firefighter Discovery Session
- 11.30am – 1.30pm – Wholetime Firefighter Discovery Session (women-focused)
- 2pm – 4pm – Wholetime Firefighter Discovery Session
Tuesday 1 December at Shoreham Fire Station
- 9am – 11am – Wholetime Firefighter Discovery Session
- 11.30am – 1.30pm – Wholetime Firefighter Discovery Session (women-focused)
- 2pm – 4pm – Wholetime Firefighter Discovery Session
Saturday 5 December at Shoreham Fire Station
- 9am – 11am – Wholetime Firefighter Discovery Session
- 11.30am – 1.30pm – Wholetime Firefighter Discovery Session (women-focused)
- 2pm – 4pm – Wholetime Firefighter Discovery Session
Places are limited and early booking is recommended. Tickets can be booked via Eventbrite.
Catherine Walker, Head of People, Culture and Assurance, said: "We are looking for people from all backgrounds who share our values and are passionate about serving their communities.
“Our Discovery Sessions offer a valuable opportunity to gain a realistic insight into the role of a firefighter and learn more about what a career in the fire and rescue service involves.
"Attendees will have the chance to meet our firefighters, explore the station environment, take part in practical activities and find out more about the recruitment process. Whether you're seriously considering applying or simply want to learn more, I would encourage you to join us."
Councillor Tracie Bangert, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said: "Being a firefighter is a challenging, rewarding and varied career that offers the opportunity to make a real difference to people's lives every day.
"These Discovery Sessions provide an excellent opportunity to experience aspects of the role first-hand, speak to firefighters about their experiences and gain a better understanding of what it takes to join our service."
"We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve, and I would particularly encourage women and people from all backgrounds to come along and discover the exciting opportunities available within West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.
People can find more information about becoming a wholetime firefighter.
