While the award recognises Joseph’s academic success, it also reflects the dedication, resilience and professionalism required to succeed in Paramedic Practice, a profession where quick thinking, confidence and compassion can make a real difference to people’s lives.
More than a mark
For Joe, the recognition marks the culmination of years of commitment to developing the knowledge, confidence and skills needed to begin his career as a paramedic:
“I’m incredibly proud of the achievement,” he explains. “For me, it’s a really lovely acknowledgement of the work I put into the degree. The award gives me confidence that the hours spent studying were all worthwhile!”
Joseph’s journey
Growing up, Joseph knew that he wanted to be involved in medical care and was drawn to a career that challenged him to think on his feet and help people in their most vulnerable moments:
“Paramedics are unique in that we are some of the only clinicians who see patients across such a huge range of acuity, from minor illness to cardiac arrest, in their own homes, the side of the road or even in a muddy field. I don’t have a CT scanner or a set of blood results available to guide me, and I liked the idea of a career where I have to think, adapt, and make decisions with only the information I can gather myself.”
First impressions count. When it came to choosing where to study Paramedic Practice, Edge Hill University stood out from the rest.
“Right from the off, it was obvious that the students were engaged, confident in their knowledge and had a wealth of practical experience, which I just didn’t see to the same extent at the other universities I visited. The academic team were all friendly and approachable, of course, but it was their pride in showcasing Edge Hill’s impressive facilities that convinced me I was making the right decision.”
Choosing to study Paramedic Practice at Edge Hill, helped shape the rest of his journey.
Learning through practice
Joseph credits his success to his passion for the subject, the teaching and guidance he received throughout the course and family support.
Reflecting on how BSc (Hons) Paramedic Practice helped him develop, he says:
“The course taught me far more than simply recognising a problem and knowing the appropriate algorithm to follow; it taught me how to think clinically, piece together information, and adapt the medicine to the patient in front of me, especially when things aren’t always straightforward. The practical teaching, simulation, and placements then allowed me to apply that knowledge to real patients.”
A significant amount of time in clinical practice also helped Joseph build confidence and stay motivated throughout his studies:
“I cannot overstate how valuable this was. There’s no substitute for meeting patients and having the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real situations. I found I had a new lease of life when I’d learned something interesting on placement, and it undoubtedly kept me interested.”
The support and expertise of the teaching team also encouraged him to explore his interests more deeply:
“I also have to give special thanks to Jon Dearnley-Lane and James Bodmer. They are both fantastic lecturers with huge amounts of clinical experience from across the world, and it is their depth of knowledge which inspired me to look beyond the curriculum. Specifically, they fostered my interests in resuscitation, ECGs and education, which have become areas I’m particularly passionate about.”
Ultimately, the course gave him more than practical knowledge, it helped shape the way he approaches patient care:
“The course taught me not just what to do, but how to work out what I needed to do, something I’ll carry with me throughout my career.”
Proud moment
Joseph’s achievement has been celebrated by the Paramedic Practice team, who said his success reflects his academic ability, professionalism and commitment to supporting others.
Programme lead, Deborah Walter reflects:
“Joseph’s achievement is a tremendous accomplishment and one that is richly deserved. Throughout his time on the Paramedic Practice programme, he consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism and a strong commitment to developing as a compassionate and knowledgeable healthcare professional.
What has particularly distinguished Joseph is his willingness to support those around him. Throughout the programme, he generously shared his knowledge and experience with fellow students, helping to create a supportive learning environment and contributing to the success and development of his peers.
Achieving the highest overall average mark across the Faculty is an extraordinary recognition of Joseph’s hard work, determination and pursuit of excellence. We are delighted to celebrate his success and look forward to seeing the positive impact he will make within the profession.”
Starting his career with confidence
Having achieved the highest overall average mark across the Faculty of Health, Social Care and Medicine, he is now putting the knowledge, confidence and practical experience from his degree into practice as a paramedic with North West Ambulance Service.
“The combination of academic teaching, extensive placement time and simulation gave me a strong foundation, but also taught me how to think critically,” he explains. “For now, my focus is on becoming the best paramedic I can be and continuing to learn.”
Joseph is also looking forward to passing on his evolving knowledge and skills when he begins mentoring a student of his own next year.
Looking further ahead, he adds: “I’ve got plenty of ideas about where I’d like my career to go in the future, including completing an MSc, and I haven’t completely ruled out the idea of graduate-entry medicine somewhere down the line! For now though, I’m enjoying seeing where being a paramedic takes me.”
To find out more about studying Paramedic Practice at Edge Hill University, come along to our next Open Days on Saturday 7th November and Saturday 5th December 2026 at our St James’ campus, Manchester.
October 5, 2026
