Requests to arrange observer's shifts

Medical students and student nurses

February 2011:

Unfortunately we are unable to offer any visits at the current time.

Over the last few years we have recruited large numbers of student paramedics. Part of their training includes working on an operational vehicle, which means there are limited opportunities for visitors to observe on vehicles.

We will review the situation when we can, and will update this page accordingly.

We operate higher education programmes in conjunction with the Universities of Greenwich, Hertfordshire, and St George's Hospital, and when we are able to arrange shifts, these students will be given priority over other requests.

We can only accommodate applications from:

  • NHS staff (on a relevant course)
  • UK educational partners (on a relevant course)

Please note that observer's shifts cannot be arranged for members of the public.

You will need to:

  • provide proof of your field of study from the educational or NHS institution concerned;
  • provide a completed indemnity form;
  • sign a patient confidentiality undertaking; and
  • indicate which area of London you would prefer to be based in.

For more information, including an indemnity form, see Procedure for Ambulance Observers (PDF, 438KB).

Observer's shifts involve observational activity for a maximum of two to three shifts. Our crews will assess and treat patients. 

We cannot guarantee to provide observer's shifts for all applicants, even if they are members of the groups described above, and the practice learning managers will make the final decision. We make offers subject to current operational and training demands, and may sometimes have to withdraw them if circumstances dictate.