How do I become a paramedic in the UK? There are 2 options for gaining your full qualification and registration with the HPC as a paramedic. You can become a student paramedic at a university offering a suitable paramedic degree course or you can train with one of the UK?s ambulance trusts.

The best way to become a paramedic in the UK depends upon your circumstances. Training with a Trust is the preferred method for many as you are in paid employment whilst training. Student paramedic vacancies however are rare and extremely competitive, often attracting more than 100 applicants per place. Here you can find more details about help with a paramedic training application.

If you train at university to become a paramedic the final result is a full paramedic degree qualification, however, for some it can be an expensive option. Some students are eligible for grants to cover fees but the situation about university fees is currently a hot political issue. Others can apply for student loans but in all instances you do not receive wages whilst training at university. Read more about applying to university to become a paramedic here.

Having said that, if you become a paramedic student on a sandwich course you may be paid for your middle year. This middle year work placement is part of becoming a paramedic in the UK but not all degree courses are delivered in this way. Some incorporate block placements throughout the course instead of a sandwich year. Certain ambulance trusts also offer paid shift work to students outside of their timetabled training sessions.

When applying to become a paramedic, whether via university as a student paramedic or an ambulance trust as a trainee paramedic, the requirements are broadly the same. You will need a sound level of education including the following:

GCSEs at level C or above in Maths, English and at least 3 other subjects preferably including a science.

2 A levels also at grade C or above. Some now look for 3 as the courses become more academically demanding. Again a science is viewed preferentially.

Mature students looking to become a paramedic are often considered with different equivalent qualifications provided these demonstrate a similar level of ability. These might include qualifications such as baccalaureates or full City & Guild certificates.

Physical fitness is also a requirement to become a paramedic and will be tested both by universities and ambulance trusts before offering a place. Any prospective student paramedic should be able to carry a 20Kg pack with relative ease over a reasonable distance including up and down stairs at a brisk trot. This is often tested by continual stepping on and off a step platform over a 5 minute test period.

This paramedic student site gives first hand infomation covering the whole procedure of how to become a paramedic. Includes links to vacancy ads, pre-paramedic training, work experience and much more.