Sixty London Ambulance Service paramedics celebrate graduation from University of Cumbria

Sixty student paramedics working at London Ambulance Service have graduated in paramedic science from the University of Cumbria.

London Ambulance Service fully funds student paramedics on the university programme and they continue to earn their salary working as emergency medical technicians (EMT) on ambulances while they complete their degree.

It means students can develop clinical experience along the way and qualify without getting into debt, making it more accessible for Londoners.

Newly qualified Paramedic Lisa Sergison, who works out of Camden Ambulance Station, graduated earlier this month after being at London Ambulance Service for 15 years. She started in A&E support – the equivalent of today’s Assistant Ambulance Practitioner role – and continued her career by gaining more experience.

Lisa said: “I’m so proud that I have a degree at nearly 50 years old.

“I have children who are now in their teens. I would have never been able to do a degree when they were growing up without this programme.

“It’s the best way to learn and gain experience and expertise as a paramedic.

“You can learn when you‘re ready. It’s really accessible and inclusive for those who have family responsibilities.

“Parents might put off getting degrees and a new career but London Ambulance Service has been brilliant.”

Just before the graduation ceremony, which was held at Carlisle Cathedral in Cumbria, the graduates celebrated with their family, peers and members of the education and apprenticeship team. London Ambulance Service Chief Paramedic Pauline Cranmer gave a speech congratulating all present.

Pauline said: “I’m incredibly proud of everyone who has recently graduated as they move from emergency medical technicians to paramedics.

“Working and studying for a degree shows real commitment to developing their knowledge and experience which will benefit the people of London.

“Pioneering degrees like this ensure that paramedicine remains at the cutting-edge of the NHS.”

The degree programme runs alongside the successful Associate Ambulance Practitioner apprenticeship, which is a route to becoming an EMT without any prior medical qualifications.

London Ambulance Service was ranked as the top NHS organisation for apprenticeships by The Times earlier this month.

It ranks at number three in the list of 100 employers – only beaten by the British Army and the Royal Navy. It is the only NHS organisation in the country to make the top 10.

Following the apprenticeship, frontline workers can move onto the two-year degree course without pausing their careers.

For more information on the different apprenticeship opportunities visit a dedicated page about apprenticeship opportunities on our website.