EEAST staff celebrate graduation from apprentice paramedic degree programme

At a ceremony at Carlisle Cathedral, the newly qualified paramedics graduated from the BSc (Hons) apprenticeship paramedic degree programme.

EEAST was one of seven ambulance services to sign up to the new programme with the University of Cumbria in 2021.

University of Cumbria devised the course for existing patient-facing ambulance staff. The course takes two years to complete, compared to three for a traditional degree in paramedic science.

This allows emergency care assistants, ambulance technicians and associate ambulance practitioners to continue to work on the frontline while studying.

The first group of paramedics on this programme graduated in 2023 and this year a further three groups of learners graduated.

In total, 84 paramedics have now graduated through this apprenticeship route and there are 205 learners currently on the programme.

Katie Burst, head of education and learner experience at EEAST, made the journey to Carlisle to watch the ceremony.

Katie said:

“We are extremely proud of every graduate who have worked so hard to achieve this qualification.

“This is an important internal career progression pathway for the Trust. Staff can come in an entry level position as emergency care assistant and see a route to become a paramedic with our support.

“We know that going to university full time is not for everyone and this programme opens up opportunities to become a paramedic."

If you want a job that gives you the opportunity to make a difference, start your #CareerForLife with EEAST today. You can find out more about careers and volunteering opportunities on the Trust website.