TIME is running out for those wanting to become student paramedics – and the ambulance service are calling for more people to apply after receiving just 157 applications for the 300 positions.
West Midlands Ambulance Service are also warning potential applicants that they have less than three days left to apply.
More than 8,000 people have viewed the job on the NHS jobs website and hundreds have started applications but not finished them.
Those hoping to become a student paramedic this year must apply by 11.59pm on Sunday, January 8.
Rhianne Pomfet, a student paramedic, said: “It’s more than just driving around in an ambulance; it’s about helping people.
“I would be lying if I said that it had been easy. A lot of hours went into the study, a few tears too, but I’m really glad that I’ve done it.”
Natalie Port, another student paramedic, said: “I’m loving it! There’s a lot of work to do but every day we cover something new and my cohort of fellow students is great.
“We support each other. There is so much to learn – practicals are where I learn the most but there is lots of studying to do as well.
“It’s a lot of hard work but so worth it. Go for it!”
Dan Godlieb, a qualified paramedic, said: “I had good mentors at West Midlands Ambulance Service teaching me and guiding me.
“At the time I thought it was really, really hard, but as I’ve got older and wiser, I feel this is the most suited career for me.”
Alpesh Mistry says the best thing about being a paramedic is the diversity of the job.
“Colleagues who have been paramedics for 25 years still say that they are seeing things that they have never seen before,” the paramedic added.
“Learning about all the different clinical practices I found fascinating because the human body is an amazing piece of equipment.”
Student paramedics take part in a 30 month training contract which is advertised as a ‘earn and you learn’ scheme.
Applicants must have applied for – or possess – a C1 licence, have at least five GCSEs and an A-level or equivalent qualification.
Visit http://www.jobs.nhs.uk and searching for Job Reference: 217-VN240-16-17
For more information, contact [email protected] or on 01384 215 896 during office hours.
