How to Become a Paramedic in the United Kingdom

There are two ways to become a paramedic in the UK. The first is to be recruited directly by an Ambulance Service NHS Trust as a student paramedic. There are 12 of these though out the United Kingdom. This is an unusual route to becoming a paramedic. These jobs are seldom offered and receive many applicants. The usual route is to enroll in a university program that grants a Paramedic Degree of Diploma. These can be applied to through UCAS (University and Colleges Admissions Service).

Instructions

Before Applying, Using Either Method

1. Prepare physically for the job. Paramedics have certain athletic requirements they must meet. Training to this standard can help in your applications.

2. Volunteer with a related agency. This will increase your chances for selection as a student paramedic or at the university. St. John Ambulance, British Red Cross, and the more recently formed Community First Responders can all provide valuable volunteer experience.

3. Choose related classes in your earlier schooling. Chemistry, anatomy and biology are all worthwhile courses to study to increase your chances of acceptance.

4. Maintain a good driving record. A C1 element is required of paramedics, although this can be gained after employment. Many driving violations are likely to hinder your applications.

Applying as a Student Paramedic

1. Search the job postings for the 12 NHS Ambulance Trusts. These jobs are seldom offered so you should apply as quickly as possible when you find these jobs.

2. Prepare physically for your interview. During the interview process your sprinting, grasping and lifting abilities are likely to be tested. Performing well in these tests can help you to secure the job.

3. Prepare for the written test and interview. These tests are designed to test your knowledge of not only paramedic techniques, but of the service as a whole. There are many preparatory tests that are for sale by educational publishers that you may find helpful.

Applying to a University Curriculum

1. Select a program and apply to the UCAS.

2. Prepare for selection. This preparation is in many ways the same kind of preparation in steps two and three under Applying as a Student Paramedic.

3. Study hard and continue to volunteer with related agencies. Good scores in your classes and work experience can greatly influence your future application.

4. Apply after graduation to one of the 12 NHS Ambulance Trusts. Your degree does not guarantee that you will get the job; however, you will have met all the educational requirements and this will greatly increase your chances.

5. Prepare for another round of interviews and physical assessments.

References

• NHS Careers: Careers in the ambulance service
• Paramedic Careers: Become A Paramedic