University of Northampton has received funding to train extra paramedics, news welcomed by a graduate who is working in the profession just two years after starting his course.
Jack Dudley, from Leamington Spa, qualified as a paramedic in February 2018 after starting the Foundation course in Paramedic Science in 2016.
Foundation course fees are fully funded for the two-year duration and there is the option of applying for a non-repayable bursary for further support.
Also on offer are fuel expenses to cover some travel costs as well as a four week funded emergency driving course. The funding for the extra 24 places has been agreed by Health Education England (East Midlands), the organisation responsible for education provision and training for the NHS in this region, building on an existing funding agreement. The ambulance placements are facilitated by the East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS).
Jack Dudley, who gained his Health and Care Professions Council registration in October 2017 and graduated in February this year, said: “The Foundation course has been a great experience. It’s a more direct route into the role, so the funding for the extra places from Health Education is fantastic news.”
Students will also have access to the University’s training facilities including a new, model ambulance located at the £330 million Waterside campus, right in the heart of Northampton town and due to open to students next month.
The full-time course, which starts on 12 November, covers placements in a variety of ambulance, health and social care settings such as hospital wards and accident and emergency departments.
Jack added: “The last year of university was a whirl of revision, exams and work placements, but it’s worth it every step of the way. I love being part of the team at East Midlands Ambulance Service – I can’t recommend people taking the University course enough.”
For more details and for how to apply, see the official course page.
