Frequently asked questions
If you are considering applying to become a student ambulance paramedic, the below information gives some detail on pay, what qualifications you need, and the recruitment process.
What will my salary be?
The student ambulance paramedic salary is band 5 (£20,225 - £26,123) and follows the NHS Pay and Banding system for trainees: -
- On commencement of the course, your salary will be 70% of the top of band 5, currently £18,286. On successful completion of the 13-week training course, you will start work at an ambulance station and receive an additional unsocial hours payment of up to 25% for working the full range of shifts.
- Up to 12 months prior to completion of your training to become a qualified paramedic you will receive 75% of the top of band 5 which is currently £19,592 as well as up to 25% unsocial hours payment for working the full range of shifts.
- Once you have qualified as a paramedic and are registered with the Health Professions Council, your salary will move to the bottom of band 5 which is currently £20,225. Again, you will receive up to 25% unsocial hours payment for working the full range of shifts.
- In line with Agenda for Change you are then entitled to an annual pay increase which moves up one pay point in band 5 each year.
Do I need to have a clinical or care related background?
Our ambulance staff come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Many have had an interest in first aid, and many have been involved in volunteering for charities such as St John Ambulance. However these are not essential criteria.
What qualifications do I need?
At least five GCSEs at grade C or above (one of which must be English, maths or a science) or an equivalent level of qualification such as a NVQ Level 3.
What other skills do I need?
A high level of fitness is essential, as is being able to work well with a mix of people of different ages and social groups.
What type of driving licence is needed?
A full UK driving licence with two years driving experience is essential. In addition, you will need to have a full C1 category on your driving licence. If you have not got this category at the moment, you need to obtain this at least one week prior to the date the course commences. Further details can be given about this should you decide to apply.
What does the training involve?
You will initially undertake a 13-week course at one of the Trust’s training centres in Chelmsford, Bedford or Norwich. On successful completion of this, you will begin work as a student ambulance paramedic in one of the localities. At this point you will be allocated an ambulance station base where there are vacancies. Although we try and base staff as near to their homes as possible, bear in mind that this is not always possible and your base station could therefore be some distance from where you currently live. From this point on you will be undertaking your practical assessments and begin the Certificate of Higher Education programme.
Do I have to pay for the course myself?
On progression to the Certificate of Higher Education you will pay the university fees (currently £750 per year). However, this will be reimbursed to you once you have successfully passed the Certificate of Higher Education and have become a registered paramedic with the HPC.
What does the recruitment process involve?
Written assessments (writing, numeracy and dictation), a fitness and manual dexterity test, an interview, a driving assessment and Occupational Health Clearance. It is essential you pass each element of the selection assessment process to move onto the next stage.
