Ambulance staff in safe hands at Edge Hill

Edge Hill University has won a major contract to train paramedics for North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust.

The first 40 students will start their two-year Diploma of Higher Education in Paramedic Practice in September 2009, when they will learn in one of the best practical environments, including a mock-up of an ambulance inside the classroom.

As well as being taught the theoretical aspects of being a paramedic, students will also use hi-tech mannequins that can simulate everything from cardiac and respiratory problems to temperature rises and pregnancy. The University will use its state-of-the-art clinical skills simulation facilities to provide realistic training scenarios, including roadside scenes and real ambulance equipment. Students will also undertake on-the-job training in ambulance centres, operating theatres and other healthcare areas.

Seth Crofts, Dean of the Faculty of Health at Edge Hill University said: "This tender will give the Faculty of Health the opportunity to diversify the range of courses on offer at the University as we are already the largest provider of healthcare staff in the North West, with around 500 nurses, midwives, operating theatre staff and healthcare professional graduating each year.

"As a Faculty we strive to provide the very best training and education practices, working together with clinical providers such as the North West Ambulance Service, to achieve this aim.

"Here at Edge Hill we are well known for our extensive capabilities, excellently resourced classrooms and outstanding student support packages."

Some of the training may take place in the new eco-friendly £14m Faculty of Health building at the University's Ormskirk campus. The new state-of-the-art facility incorporates many unique eco-friendly features including a ‘live energy wall' located in the main entrance of the building. As more energy is used, the wall changes colour, reminding staff and students to turn off computers, lights and other electrical equipment after use.

More information on the Diploma in Higher Education in Paramedic Practice and how to apply will be made available later in the year.

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