Applications for wholetime firefighter roles will open on Thursday, 14 August
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) will open applications for wholetime firefighter roles on Thursday, 14 August, and is encouraging anyone interested in applying to start preparing now.
In the lead-up to the recruitment launch, SFRS will be sharing real-life stories from firefighters across Scotland, giving potential candidates first-hand look at what it means to be part of the Service.
Assistant Chief Officer Jon Henderson is the SFRS’s Director of Prevention. He said: “We want people to understand what the role truly involves, from emergency response to prevention work in our communities.
“This is more than a job, it’s a commitment to helping others, working as a team, and protecting the communities of Scotland every single day.”
We strongly encourage anyone interested to take time to ensure their application reflects their motivation, understanding of the role and suitability and apply as soon as it opens.
We have a limited number of places available in this campaign, so there will be a cap on the number of applications and the advert will close when we reach that point.
Being prepared is key; in the coming weeks those considering applying are encouraged to:
Visit the SFRS career section on our website to learn more about the role, application process and eligibility criteria.
Attend one of our engagement sessions where they can meet serving firefighters and recruitment staff and ask questions.
Follow our social media channels to hear directly from the people who do the job, their experiences, challenges, and why they love what they do.
You can access the full details on how to apply and where to access support:
Successful candidates will follow a structured selection process that includes physical assessments, an interview, and medical evaluation.
SFRS is committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities it serves and welcomes applications from all backgrounds, particularly from women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, who are currently underrepresented in the Service.
Applications officially open on Thursday, 14 August, and will close when we reach the application limit.
We are hiring across Scotland, but some areas do not have job openings right now. Before applying, candidates should think about where they would be willing to work.
We will have more recruitment in the next 6 to 12 months. Check the career section on our website and social media for updates.
Recruitment engagement sessions
We are encouraging anyone interested in applying to attend one of our upcoming engagement sessions to learn more about the role, the recruitment process and what it’s like to work for the SFRS.
We will be hosting a mix of online and in-person events over the coming weeks.
Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged.
Business confidence in Scotland fell five points to 47% in June
While firms’ optimism in their own trading prospects fell 10 points to 47%, their optimism in the economy held steady at 48%
However, a net balance of 55% of Scottish businesses expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up 25 points on last month
Overall UK business confidence increased one point in June to 51%
Business confidence in Scotland fell five points during June to 47%, according to the latest Business Barometer from Bank of Scotland.
While Scottish firms’ optimism in the economy held steady month-on-month at 48%, businesses reported lower confidence in their own trading prospects, down 10 points at 47%. Taken together, this gives a headline confidence reading of 47% (vs. 52% in May).
However, a net balance of 55% of Scottish businesses expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up 25 points on last month.
Looking ahead to the next six months, Scottish businesses identified their top target areas for growth as evolving their offering, for example by introducing new products or services (53%), investing in their team, for example through training (48%) and entering new markets (41%).
The Business Barometer, which surveys 1,200 businesses monthly and which has been running since 2002, provides early signals about UK economic trends both regionally and nationwide.
National picture
Overall, UK business confidence increased one point in June to 51%.
Firms’ optimism in their own trading prospects strengthened one point to 57%, while their confidence in the wider economy also rose one point to 45%.
Wales was the most confident UK nation or region in June (67%), followed by London (64%).
Sector insights
Business confidence in the manufacturing and retail sectors saw significant gains this month, with 12-point rises in both sectors to 52%. For manufacturing, this demonstrates an 11-month high.
Construction and services however saw decreases in confidence, with falls by five points and four points respectively.
Martyn Kendrick, Scotland Director at Bank of Scotland Commercial Banking, said:“Despite lower overall confidence, Scottish businesses are still setting out plans for growth – whether that’s through plans to hire, or steps like launching new products and services.
“We remain ready to support every step of their journeys.”
Hann-Ju Ho, Senior Economist, Lloyds Commercial Banking, said:“Business confidence has continued its positive momentum, following the significant gains we saw in May.
“In particular, the sustained rise in hiring intentions suggests that while firms do still face challenges, they may be starting to look beyond short-term staffing needs and preparing for future growth.”
Paul Kempster, Managing Director for Commercial Banking Coverage, Lloyds Business & Commercial said:“June’s figures for UK businesses shows a sustained picture of growth and opportunity.
“Overall, while there have been some fluctuations, it’s encouraging to see all regions and nations well above the long-term average.
“As business confidence continues, we are committed to supporting businesses with a range of financial services to help them achieve their growth ambitions.”
Young people in Edinburgh interested in exploring a career in retail can now sign up to Aldi’s virtual work experience programme.
Open to students in the UK aged 13 and over, the free online course is designed to build skills and introduce students to the wide range of careers available in retail – from warehouse operations to office-based roles.
Created in partnership with Springpod, the programme includes a series of videos and guidance from Aldi colleagues, alongside interactive quizzes and activities.
Upon completion, participants receive a certificate to enhance their CVs or future applications.
Lisa Murphy, Training and Development Director at Aldi UK, said:“At Aldi, we understand that not everyone has access to in-person work experience. That’s why we’ve created a flexible virtual programme that allows participants to learn at their own pace, fitting around their schedules.
“This initiative not only provides young people with a real insight into what it’s like to work at Aldi but also makes it possible for them to experience this, no matter where they are in the UK.
“Since launching, we’ve already attracted more than 2,000 sign-ups and hope to inspire even more young people to explore careers in retail through this accessible and engaging platform.”
Aldi is also looking to recruit more than 500 new apprentices across the UK in 2025, with opportunities across stores and warehouse roles now live.
A recruitment process has begun for a new head teacher at Fettes College in Edinburgh, with the current Head Helen Harrison announcing her retirement from the role next year. The school has commissioned a specialist firm to help identify candidates, with applications due by 15 May.
Named after its founder, Sir William Fettes, the school opened in 1870 and has around 720 students with over 300 staff. It is the only school in Scotland to offer the option of A-Levels or International Baccalaureate in the Sixth Form and a top ten IB School in the UK. Although it currently serves young people aged 7 – 18, from next academic year it will also open a Pre-Prep and offer places to children from age five.
The Rt Hon Lady Morag Wise, Chair of the Governors, said: “Helen has selflessly devoted herself to Fettes for over 30 years – 19 in a senior leadership role and latterly seven as Head.
“She has made a significant contribution to the success of this place and her vision for Fettes has steered a path that ensures our students leave Fettes knowing themselves, looking out for others and ready to make a positive mark on their rapidly changing world.
“We are now beginning the work of securing a new Head in partnership with Perrett Laver to ensure we have someone worthy of leading this great school. The Governing Body is seeking a visionary educationalist who will bring energy and experience to the role of Head from September 2026.
“This is a rare and career-defining opportunity for an outstanding leader.”
Helen Harrison said: “This place; the students and our staff mean the world to me, and it will always be the honour of my life to have led Fettes College and this community.
“I am immensely proud of our achievements, of seeing my vision for Fettes come to life, ground-breaking facilities under construction; and most importantly our students fulfilling their potential.
“However, by Founder’s Day next year it will be the right time to pass on this privilege to the next Head. Until that time it is business as usual and I will continue to give this job my absolute all.”
The Regenerative Futures Fund is a new initiative to improve the lives of people living in poverty and experiencing racism in Edinburgh, while contributing towards a just, green transition in the city.
It will support community organisations in Edinburgh for 10 years and we are bringing together people who live in Edinburgh to decide who gets funded!
Group members will:
• have lived or be living in poverty and/or have experienced racism
• have lived in Edinburgh for at least the past year and plan to stay here
We’ll ask you to join 2 – 4 meetings a month and bring your imagination and hopes to make Edinburgh a happy, healthy home for everyone.
We will pay for your time (more than £15 per hour), pay for things that can make your life better (for you or your career) and offer translation, costs of childcare, travel and other things that make it easy for you to join.
What’s next? Read more about joining the group and then talk to us… we’re Aala (she/her) and Andy (he/him) and we would love to chat!
The RNLI Lifeguards Scotland team are recruiting focused and dedicated individuals eager to add ‘Lifesaver’ to their CV this summer
The RNLI are seeking enthusiastic recruits for a unique opportunity to make a difference, helping to ensure the water is safe for people to enjoy.
With world-class RNLI training and plenty of development opportunities available, successful applicants will build valuable skills working under pressure in a challenging but incredibly rewarding role.
These skills in teamwork, leadership and problem-solving areas are easily transferred into other job roles, especially within the emergency services.
Focused, vigilant, proactive and approachable, RNLI lifeguards can complete a 400m pool swim in under 7½ minutes, the first 200m of which must be completed in under 3½ minutes.
Lifeguards must also have the ability to complete a 200m beach run in under 40 seconds.
If this sounds like you, find full details of the criteria at the RNLI’s website here:
Lee Fisher, Lifeguard Experience Manager said: ‘Beach lifeguarding is a great opportunity and a very rewarding role that changes lives – including your own – all whilst enjoying the beach as your office.
‘Our lifeguards range from teenagers all the way up to lifesavers in their 70s, as long as you meet the fitness requirements and you are over 16 years old, there could be a role for you.
‘The job also has great paths for progression – we have lifeguards who have been working for the RNLI for years, both on the beach and as part of our support teams, and the skills you gain can make an ideal first step towards many careers. It’s a great opportunity whether you want a rewarding summer job or to pursue a career in lifesaving.’
If you are over 16 years old with a passion for helping others, visit our vacancy link below for more information on our roles and how to apply:
Our dedicated team of #SpecialConstables volunteered over 820hrs in #Edinburgh during January 2025 – an incredible effort from an incredible team!
With a long and impressive history, the Special Constabulary is a part-time, volunteer body consisting of voluntary officers with identical powers to that of police officers. As a special constable, you’ll work alongside our police officers in your spare time – forging strong partnerships in the community, patrolling our streets, preventing crime, and interacting with all kinds of people to give back, keep your local community safe and make a real difference.
You can work full time and be a Special Constable in just 96 hours per year or a few hours a week. The role is diverse, demanding, and rewarding. You could be doing anything from policing a football match to assisting at a road accident. Special constables also police major sporting and public events and provide an excellent bridge between the Police Service and the public, representing both the community within the police service and the police service within local communities.
Special Constables can act as a positive force for change – bringing with them an extensive pool of skills, talents, experience, local knowledge, and diverse backgrounds – as well as enhancing the overall level of service provided by the police. So whatever your walk of life, step forward now and find out how being a police volunteer could be the perfect fit to suit your lifestyle.
If you would like to volunteer with Police Scotland , serving communities in the capital, follow the link to find out more … https://orlo.uk/z9Jrl
Edinburgh Leisure, the city’s leading sports and leisure provider, is expanding its swim programme by creating 750 additional swimming lesson spaces for participants ranging from pre-school children to adults.
The expansion comes at a critical time. While learning to swim remains a vital life skill with significant benefits for social development, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted swimming coaching, causing many teachers to leave the profession.
In response, Edinburgh Leisure has strategically focused on recruiting and training new coaches to restore and enhance its swimming programme.
“Everyone should be able to enjoy Scotland’s beautiful waterways safely and with confidence,” says Angela McCowan, Coaching Programme Manager. “Our Learn to Swim programme gives children and adults the opportunity to develop critical water skills in a supportive environment.”
As part of the Learn to Swim Framework—a collaborative initiative between Scottish Water and Scottish Swimming—Edinburgh Leisure is dedicated to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where individuals of all abilities can learn alongside their peers.
Key highlights of the programme include:
750 new swimming lesson spaces across multiple venues
Fully accredited swim teachers following the Scottish Swimming Learn to Swim Programme
Focus on building water confidence for all age groups
More spaces and lessons are now available across the city, with the largest increases at Ainslie Park, Drumbrae Leisure Centre, Warrender Swim Centre, and the Royal Commonwealth Pool.
“Our recent coaching customer survey confirmed the high demand for swimming lessons,” McCowan adds. “These additional spaces will make it easier for participants to progress through our programme levels.”
Spaces are expected to fill quickly, particularly at entry levels. Interested individuals are encouraged to book their lessons promptly.
SEEKING a new adventure in 2025? The British Council is on the lookout for people from across Scotland to teach English in one of 10 destinations around the world.
Through their English Language Assistant (ELA) programme, they provide placements in countries including France, Canada and Colombia – giving participants a unique opportunity to teach internationally, develop professional skills, and fully immerse themselves in a new culture for six months to a year.
Language requirements vary between countries, but applicants can be from any walk of life, and do not need a formal language qualification to apply – their language skills can be acquired through travel, private study, or university language courses.
Twenty-four-year-old Ailie Ross-Oliver from Dunblane in Stirlingshire took part in the programme in 2023. She applied in her final year studying Politics at the University of Edinburgh, and got placed in Quebec, Canada.
Speaking about her experience, she said: “I decided to apply to be an ELA as I was really keen to find an opportunity where I could improve my language skills and travel while earning money. This programme seemed like a great opportunity to combine these things.
“I worked in Lévis, a city in eastern Quebec, and lived across the river in Quebec City. My school was a secondary school called Juvenat Notre Dame de Saint Laurent and there I taught students aged 12-16 years old.
“Depending on the class teacher and their preferences, I either prepared a class activity for 30 minutes or took small groups to a side room and ran activities. My activities were designed by me and generally I focused on aspects of culture or adapted games into creative class formats.
“I was pleasantly surprised by how engaged the students were in learning about Scotland, we had a highland games day where students participated in a caber toss, tug of war and other typical highland games activities.”
Ailie, who currently studies at Sciences Po (Paris Institute of Political Studies), believes the programme has significantly enhanced her skills.
She said: “Personally, I really benefited from the experience of living abroad and practicing my French. I am now studying for my masters in France which I previously wouldn’t have had the confidence for. I also got to try out teaching which was a career path I had considered and through this experience I gained great public speaking skills.
“Quebec is a fascinating place and there are so many amazing places with nature and cities to discover. It’s great if you’re looking for a sense of adventure and something a little different.
“Your colleagues will be so interested in the perspectives you have to offer and it’s a great way to get professional experience while working abroad. You’ll also have great opportunities to travel and explore – I went to Ontario, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick as well as New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Niagara Falls.
“If you’re considering the programme, I would say 100% take the chance and apply.”
Adam Heron (far right) lived in Paris during his time on the programme
Meanwhile, 25-year-old Adam Heron, who is currently studying for a PhD in music at the University of Glasgow, spent seven months teaching in Paris, France. For him, the ELA programme offered a chance to fulfil his long-standing wish to live and study in a French-speaking country.
He said: “Even though my background is in classical music, I’ve always had a passion for languages, especially French. My studies have meant that I’ve had little opportunity to explore living and studying abroad and I was eager to have new experiences and broaden my horizons. The English Language Assistant programme presented a perfect opportunity to step outside my comfort zone and challenge myself – both personally and professionally.
“I look back on my time in Paris very positively – the programme provides a lot of valuable opportunities that you may not get otherwise. It gives flexibility, and because you only teach 12 hours a week, there’s plenty of time outside the classroom to learn about the French culture.
“I had wonderful students, very nice colleagues, and it was fantastic to live in such a multicultural, exciting, vibrant city. Outside of teaching I spent my time at the theatres, concertos and museums, galleries, there was just so much to do. I also met a wide range of people, not just from the UK, but from all over the world, and it was a lovely cultural melting pot.
For Adam, the programme has expanded the possibilities for his future career path.
He said: “I come from a very focused, very narrow upbringing in classical music training, which can be very intense and isolating. Going to France through the British Council was something completely different.
“It was very open, diverse and varied and strengthened my language and pedagogical skills. it really gave me a lot of happiness, I think, and confidence. I now have a greater sense of independence, self-sufficiency and social skills.
“I’ve not fully decided what I want to do in the future, but I’m considering taking a CELTA course because I enjoyed teaching so much. With my PhD, I can’t say for sure if or when it will happen, but it’s more about keeping the possibility open.”
Every year, the British Council sends approximately 1,800 assistants from the UK abroad to support the teaching of English in schools, universities, and language centres, and with the programme approaching its 120th anniversary in 2025, it continues to open doors for participants while promoting educational exchange worldwide.
The programme, supported by the Department for Education (DfE), Scottish Government, operates on a reciprocal basis.
Modern Language Assistants from around the globe teach French, German, Italian, and Mandarin across Scotland and the wider UK. In 2024, over 700 Modern Language Assistants were teaching at schools, colleges, and universities across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Participants can be placed in Switzerland as part of the programme.
Speaking about the programme was Peter Brown, Director, British Council Scotland, who was an English Language Assistant in 1982-83. He said: “Applying to be part of the Language Assistant Programme is more than just an opportunity to teach; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in another culture and grow in ways you never imagined.
“Having worked in Hamburg, Germany in the ‘80s, I can honestly say that experience changed my life. It broadened my horizons, deepened my understanding of the world, and gave me skills that have shaped my career ever since.
“I’m passionate about this programme because I know first-hand the incredible impact it can have—not just on the students you teach, but on your own personal and professional journey.
“If you have a passion for languages, exploring new culture, and inspiring others, I encourage you to apply and help make 2025 a year of adventure and new opportunities.”
Applications for the English Language Assistant programme are now open. The deadline to apply is Thursday, 30 January 2025.
For more information andfull eligibility criteria visit:
The English Language Assistant programme continues the British Council’s work, building connection, understanding and trust between people in the UK and overseas through arts, education and English language teaching.
To find out more about their work in Scotland visit:
