Paramedic

In order to become a paramedic you'll need a foundation degree, diploma of higher education (DipHE) or degree in paramedic science or paramedic practice.

You could start as a student paramedic, a trainee technician or an emergency care assistant for an ambulance service.

Working as a volunteer community first responder with an organisation like St John Ambulance or an NHS ambulance trust, may help you to get onto a training course.

Your local ambulance trust has information about the services in your area.

To become a paramedic you'll need:

To register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
A driving licence, including C1 category entitlement
To pass a medical check
An enhanced background check which your employer will arrange for you


You'll need:

Excellent driving skills
The ability to think and act quickly under pressure
Practical skills and the ability to follow procedures
Excellent communication skills




Your day-to-day tasks could include:

• 
  checking a patient's condition to decide what action to take
  

using electric shock equipment (a defibrillator) to resuscitate patients

• carrying out surgical procedures like inserting a breathing tube
  

• giving medicines and injections
  

• dressing wounds and applying supports for broken bones
  

• delivering babies
  

• working closely with the police and fire services
  

• keeping accurate records and checking equipment