Fife firefighter Kayleigh's determination lands her dream job

Glenrothes firefighter Kayleigh Marsh graduated as a firefighter in April after previously falling just short of joining the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

The 34-year-old, based at Glenrothes Fire Station, was determined to succeed second time round and is now urging others to follow her lead.

The former fitness manager said: “I applied a few years ago and I wasn’t successful, it’s an extremely competitive process, but if it’s something you really want, don’t give up.

“I was determined to do better this time, I put a lot of time into my application and studied the SFRS website as much as I could.

“I also spoke to firefighters at my local stations and went along to open days which gave me a better idea of what to expect.”

Kayleigh attended one of the SFRS’s recruitment open days at Thornton HQ and spoke with local crews who helped prepare her for the process.

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Firefighter Marsh graduated alongside 23 colleagues in April 2020 after completing an 11-week course at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s East training centre in Newbridge, Edinburgh.

The course was specially adapted to follow Scottish Government guidance regarding Covid-19 where recruits were socially distanced as much as possible and the course shortened from its normal 14-week schedule.

She continued: “I had no practical experience at all, whereas a lot of people on my initial training course were either Retained Firefighters or had already gained relevant skills, knowledge and expertise from working in a variety of trades.”

Kayleigh soon joined up with her new colleagues at Glenrothes Fire Station four days later – receiving a call out to a house fire on her second shift.

She added: “At first when I heard the station alarm I thought it was just a drill because my Watch Commander had arranged a test turnout 20 minutes earlier.

“It’s a demanding job but it’s so rewarding and I’d urge anyone who is considering it to apply – but be prepared and do your research!”To apply visit: https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/emergency-services/scottish-fire-and-rescue-services

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