Over 20,000 show interest in student paramedic role

A recruitment campaign to find paramedics of the future looks likely set to set new records for the level of interest.

Since the application opened on NHS Jobs, just over 21,000 people have viewed the job description and person specification.  Not only that, over 450 have actually applied, with another 850 still working on their applications.

Last December, a similar advert brought in 10,000 views and 28 applications.

Recruitment Manager, Louise Harris, said: “After the success of TV programmes like ‘Ambulance’ (BBC One), ‘999 On The Frontline’ (More 4) and ‘Inside the Ambulance’ (W Channel), the ambulance service, particularly in the West Midlands, has never been so high profile.

“There is no doubt that we have seen a huge level of interest in the role of paramedic and also those staff who work in our control rooms.  Our social media channels on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram (@officialWMAS) have seen loads of people asking for more information.

“It is great news that so many people have taken the time to look at the role of student paramedic.  As an ‘earn as you learn’ scheme, it opens up possibilities to a wide range of people in the region.

“We have seen people apply from all different communities but also people from their teens to their 50s; many who are looking at a complete career change or even a second career change.

“From our perspective, this is excellent news because it means we get a really good variety of people from all walks of life, area, ethnic group and community which can only be good for the service.”

Applications close at 11.59pm on Thursday 9^th November.  To apply you need to have at least five GCSEs (A – C grade) including English, Maths and Science, and a single A Level in any subject.  Equivalent qualifications will be accepted.  In addition, you must at least have applied for you C1 driving licence.

Please go to www.jobs.nhs.uk and search for Job Ref: 217-VN197-17-18

For further information about the qualifications required, please contact the Recruitment Team on 01384 215 896 or email recruitment@wmas.nhs.uk