EMT APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITY WITH NORTH WEST AMBULANCE SERVICE
North West Ambulance Service are offering the opportunity to train as an Emergency Medical Technician…
North West Ambulance Service are offering the opportunity to train as an Emergency Medical Technician.
Job Description
Title: Emergency Medical Technician (EMT 1) (Apprentice)
Band: 4 – Agenda for Change Annex 21 of Band 4
Directorate: Paramedic Emergency Service
Reports To: Senior Paramedic (Team Leader)
Accountable to: Sector Manager
Job purpose
To assist in the delivery of high quality and effective pre-hospital clinical care and patient transportation, responding to 999 emergencies, inter-hospital transfers, urgent hospital admissions and other allocated patient interventions commensurate with the role and responsibilities.
To use advanced driving skills under blue light and normal traffic conditions to respond to and transport emergency and routine calls as required.
Working as a crew or solo, you will initiate appropriate care and effective treatment to patients in both hospital and pre-hospital environment, selecting and applying appropriate skills and equipment safely and within appropriate level of training, competency and scope of practice.
To act in accordance with Trust policies, procedures and protocols, Code of Conduct, guidelines and current legislation at all times
What are the key duties and responsibilities?
To provide and contribute to the care, effective treatment and safe transportation of patients, providing the highest standards of clinical and personal care within the hospital and pre-hospital environment.
To respond to operational requirements, in a safe, timely and efficient way, as directed by Emergency Control Centre staff, senior clinician, scene manager or other authorised manager.
To respond to clinical requirements of patients in a safe, timely and efficient manner as directed by a senior clinician on scene or remotely as per clinical guidelines/protocols.
To ensure compliance with all guidelines, policies, procedures, protocols and Code of Conduct at all times, being personally accountable and responsible for clinical decisions made during the course of duty, ensuring patients receive the highest quality and standards of care.
To treat all patients with dignity and respect, taking appropriate account of their cultural, communication, disability and other diverse needs, ensuring compliance with equality and diversity legislation and displaying active commitment to the need to ensure equality of care outcomes for all patients. To report incidents of discrimination, harassment, abuse victimisation and behaviour in accordance with Trust policies.
When working as a crew with an EMT 2 or Paramedic support the work of the senior clinician by providing effective clinical care using appropriate knowledge and skills in order to assist them make professional judgements; conduct diagnostic procedures and provide safe and effective treatments as and when requested by the senior clinician in accordance with Trust procedures, guidelines and protocols.
When working with an EMT 1 or when working solo provide effective clinical care using appropriate knowledge and skills and adhering to clinical guidelines, protocols and policies and act within the scope of practice as defined for an EMT 1.
To drive all types of approved ambulance service vehicles under normal and emergency (blue light) conditions, in accordance with the standards of the Trust and within road traffic law, taking particular care of the vehicle, its occupants and other road users.
To ensure a continuous duty of care to patients, within the level of training, scope of practice and competency of this role, ensuring an appropriate level of monitoring and treatment is maintained and continued until the patient is either discharged or transferred to the care of another healthcare professional.
Transfer the care of patients to appropriate health care services, ensuring all associated procedures are followed.
To ensure the safe transfer of patients, to and from vehicles, following health and safety and other appropriate protocols and procedures, taking account of the safety of patients, self, colleagues and others, using appropriate equipment and manual handling techniques.
Ensure the prompt, accurate and legible completion of all relevant documentation including the Patient Report Form (PRF), vehicle and equipment log sheets and where appropriate completion of the electronic PRF.
Ensure all patient identifiable records are kept confidential and stored safely within the vehicle until such time as the records can be safely filed on station as per Trust Policy.
To respond to and communicate with patients, relatives, colleagues, other health professionals, other emergency responders and members of the public in a calm, caring and professional manner, treating them with dignity and respect at all times.
To ensure that patient confidentiality is maintained at all times and that personal / clinical information is only disclosed in accordance with Trust policy, procedure and protocol and in accordance with Caldicott regulations, whilst ensuring that all appropriate information is recorded in a timely and efficient manner.
To ensure informed consent is obtained before treatment or intervention is undertaken and to ensure that the communication of information between self, the patient and colleagues is handled, sensitively, clearly, pro-actively and in a manner mindful of patient confidentiality.
To maintain timely communications with the Emergency Control Centre, using appropriate information and communication equipment and procedures. To ensure that the Emergency Control Centre is aware of operational status and availability at all times.
Provide the Emergency Control Centre with a “First Report” on the initial assessment of specific incidents such as Road Traffic Collisions, cardiac arrest and other potentially serious incidents and provide ongoing Situational Reports (SitRep) as necessary.
To communicate and work with other emergency services, relevant authorities, healthcare professionals and the general public in an appropriate and professional manner.
To ensure that all information recording systems (electronic and paper-based) pertaining to this role are completed and processed promptly an accurately, in accordance with Trust policy procedure and protocols, current legislation and Caldicott guidelines.
To undertake a dynamic risk assessment on arrival at the scene of an incident or to support colleagues in this duty, in accordance with Trust policy and professional guidelines, having due regard for the health and safety of self and others, and to request additional support appropriate to the circumstances through the Emergency Control Centre.
To use all Trust equipment, facilities and premises in a careful, safe and appropriate manner, ensuring that safety and security is maintained at all times.
To carry out vehicle and equipment checks at the start of duty, in accordance with Trust policy and procedures, ensuring that the vehicle is roadworthy, properly kitted, cleaned (paying particular attention to infection control) and stocked, faults or omissions reported and all appropriate recording procedures completed.
In accordance with Trust policies and procedures, ensure that own personal practices in infection prevention and control meet the requirements of the hygiene code and health & safety at work; this will include cleaning of ambulance vehicles and equipment, maintaining cleanliness of vehicles and equipment, own personal hygiene and promotion of good infection prevention and control standards for the protection of self, colleagues and patients from healthcare acquired infections.
Ensure vehicles and equipment meet agreed serviceability, ensuring that they are kept in a state of cleanliness and any defects are recorded and reported for action to be taken
To maintain competency to operate all equipment (clinical, non–clinical, and information systems) used during the course of duties, ensuring the efficient and effective operation of equipment, and the safe use of equipment at all times, reporting faults in the appropriate manner
To ensure the efficient use of medical supplies, maintaining adequate supplies throughout the shift, ensuring single use items are used according to protocols and ensuring that all clinical waste is disposed of according to Trust policy and current legislation. To practice in accordance with protocol and current legislation governing the use of medicines and prescription only medicines, in relation to the storage and security of such items both while operational and on station.
To report any untoward incident immediately and in accordance with Trust policy.
To report any incidences of risk, neglect, abuse or endangerment to vulnerable children or adults in accordance with Trust policy.
To be responsible for the security of patients property during the transportation and hand- over at their destination.
To provide emergency clinical scene management support if crew are first on scene in the case of multiple casualties, major incidents etc, in accordance with Trust policy and procedure, until relieved by a senior clinician or manager.
To undertake all mandatory training and training related to the advancement of patient care commensurate with this role.
To maintain fitness to practice by ensuring that own professional and clinical development is sustained by; continuous professional development, evaluation of clinical and operational performance, annual KSF Appraisal review and maintaining a CPD portfolio.
To provide support and assistance to colleagues as appropriate to this role.
General Duties and Responsibilities
Enhance own performance through continuously developing own knowledge, skills and behaviours to meet the current and future requirements of the job and respond to the learning needs of the Trust.
Act within acceptable parameters as an employee/ Manager for the trust, having regard to the applicable ‘Code of Conduct for your role and ensuring own practice is in accordance with Trust policies.
Maintain own CPD and contribute to own personal development by participating in annual appraisal with line manager, developing a PDP, and actively participating in agreed learning activities and evaluating effectiveness of learning in relation to role.
Regularly review own practices and makes changes in accordance with current and/or best practice, makes suggestions for improved practice and identifies where other activities affect own practice.
To achieve and demonstrate agreed standards of personal and professional development within agreed timescales.
To contribute positively to the effectiveness and efficiency of the teams in which he/she works.
To contribute to a healthy, safe and secure working environment by adhering to health and safety regulations, Trust policies, procedures and guidance. Take necessary action in relation to risks in the workplace including supporting others to manage risks and reporting incidents as necessary.
To act in ways that support equality and diversity and the rights of individuals, ensuring own practice is in accordance with Trust policies. Identify and take action when own or others’ action undermines equality and diversity.
To raise concerns around risk, malpractice or wrongdoing at work, which may affect patients, staff or the organisation, at the earliest reasonable opportunity.
To abide by the NHS values and the NHS Constitution, all staff must maintain the highest standards of care and service, treating every individual with compassion, dignity and respect, taking responsibility not only for the care you personally provide, but also for your wider contribution to the aims of your team and the NHS as a whole.
The post holder will be required to adapt to and undertake different or new duties in line with professional and service developments This Job Description is intended as a general guidance to the duties and responsibilities of the post and is not, therefore, exhaustive. It will be subject to review, in light of changing circumstances and in consultation with the post-holder.
Clinical Duties
The following are for clinical roles only:
In accordance with Trust policies and procedures, ensure that own personal practices in infection prevention and control meet the requirements of the hygiene code and health & safety at work; this will include cleaning of ambulance vehicles and equipment, maintaining cleanliness of vehicles and equipment, own personal hygiene and promotion of good infection prevention and control standards for the protection of self, colleagues and patients from healthcare acquired infections.
Ensure vehicles and equipment meet agreed serviceability, ensuring that they are kept in a state of cleanliness and any defects are recorded and reported for action to be taken.
Within area of responsibility, ensure the effective maintenance of infection prevention and control standards of all staff and the decontamination and cleaning of ambulance vehicles and reusable equipment. Undertake audits of vehicle, equipment and premises and ensure that there are associated cleaning schedules that are accessible for audit and public inspection.
Ensure that infection prevention & control standards are met within team, by inspecting and auditing the cleanliness of equipment and operational vehicles and ensuring that staff are complying with Trust protocols in respect of personal hygiene and infection prevention and control.
Person Specification
| Essential | Desirable | |
| Qualifications and Education | Minimum of 5 GCSEs including Mathematics, English (language or literature) and a Science at Grade 4-9 or equivalent. Or Candidates with healthcare experience and GCSEs in Mathematics and English (language or literature) at Grade 4-9 or above, or equivalent will be considered. | |
| Skills, Abilities, Knowledge and Experience | Hold a valid EU Driving License (No more than 3 endorsement points. In exceptional circumstances a maximum of 6 points may be considered) C1 Category entitlement (In full or Provisional status at the point of submitting your application – however full status will need to be sourced and obtained as part of your pre- employment checks before you start in role) Good verbal, listening and written communication skills Able to communicate across wide demographic boundaries in an appropriate manner Displays good interpersonal skills Respects and applies patient confidentiality at all times Displays good diplomatic skills, is tactful and discreet Good organisational skills, is able to identify priority pathways and act effectively under pressure Demonstrate the ability and commitment to providing high quality patient care, appropriate to patient needs Able to assimilate information and skills through training or personal development, and to apply these practically in the working environment Able to evidence a commitment to personal quality standards Able to produce accurate records in accordance with Trust policy Able to operate all appropriate information systems in an efficient and effective manner relevant to this post Able to operate all equipment safely and in accordance with Trust policy, procedures and protocols | Previous experience of working in a customer facing environment. |
| Personal Attributes | Is self-motivated with ability to work within occupational guidelines Displays excellent attention to detail Maintains a flexible and proactive approach to work Demonstrate a commitment to team working Confident and assertive but approachable Adaptability – especially in a changing environment Professional demeanour Sets high personal standards | |
| Other | Flexible working hours – working on a 24 roster Physically fit – is able to undertake the manual handling of patients and equipment using appropriate equipment Good attendance record Demonstrates a commitment to the Trusts equal opportunity and diversity policies and can demonstrate their incorporation into personal practice |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the programme/qualification?
A. The apprenticeship title is ‘Associate Ambulance Practitioner’.
Associate ambulance practitioner / Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education
It comprises classroom training, competency development within the practice setting, and a practice period of consolidation, which leads to an overall programme length of approximately 15 months. (This may be extended to 18 months based on individual learner requirements).
At the end of the programme and completion of all assessments including the externally assessed end point assessment, successful candidates will be awarded the Associate Ambulance Practitioner Apprenticeship which comprises of the Level 4 Associate Ambulance Practitioner Diploma and Level 3 Certificate in Emergency Response Ambulance Driving.
Q. Will this mean that there will be a change to the scope of practice of the EMT1?
A. No. There is no plan to change the EMT1 scope of practice. This programme provides us with a qualification that can be used for the further development and progression of EMT1 staff.
Q. How do you become an EMT1 apprentice?
A. You either need five GCSEs including maths, English and a science at grade 4-9 (C or above) or equivalent qualifications at level 2, or if you have healthcare experience – GCSE maths and English at grade 4-9 (C or above) or level 2 equivalent. You must hold a valid driving licence with no more than three endorsement points. In exceptional circumstances, a maximum of six points may be considered. You also need the C1 category on your driving licence or provisional at the time of applying. If you are successful at the interview and assessment you will need to source C1 training and obtain the C1 category in full as part of your pre-employment checks. You apply for the apprenticeship via Trac.
Tip – You will be required to hold the qualifications at the time of submission of your application. Please ensure that you put your qualification details in your application, including the levels. (If you omit the level, you will not be shortlisted). Please note you will be asked to produce the certificates on the assessment day. We advertise on all social media platforms including the current vacancies section on the NWAS website.
Tip – Register on Trac as although there may not be a role that you are currently interested in now, vacancies close very quickly for roles where there are a high number of applicants.
Tip – You need to complete the supporting information (you are allocated up to 1500 words). Use them wisely to demonstrate how you meet each specific criteria within the person specification, giving examples
Q. Do I need a full C1 driving licence to apply?
A. At the point of applying you will be required to have a minimum of C1 provisional on your driving licence. Should your application be shortlisted and a DVLA licence check identifies that you do not hold provisional C1 entitlement, your application will be withdrawn.
Q. Do I need a full C1 driving licence to start in the role?
A. Yes, full C1 entitlement on your driving licence will be required prior to starting in the role. There will be no exceptions as you will need this for your training and is a requirement for the role. If you are conditionally offered the role, you will be offered the option of a salary sacrifice whereby the Trust will pay the fee of the C1 upfront with a preferred supplier and deductions will be taken from your salary over a 12-month period. Please note if you opt for the salary sacrifice and don’t start the Trust will still be required to recoup any fees associated to the training you have received.
Q. What happens if I am not able to provide evidence of qualifications on the day of the assessment?
A. We advise that if you are not in receipt of your qualifications, you view this website: Get a replacement exam certificate: Who to contact – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Candidates will be required to provide all qualifications stated on their application form at the interview. Failure to provide these on the day of the interview may lead to the withdrawal of your application.
Q: My English and Maths qualifications were gained in (Scotland/US/West Africa/Nigeria/Europe etc) – are these acceptable to NWAS?
A. The following link: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/ 1083157/Apprenticeship_standards_English_and_maths_list 1_.ods – tab 3 provides information about English and maths qualifications accepted (for apprenticeships/accepted across all roles). If your qualifications are not listed, you will need to get a comparability statement from ENIC (compares overseas qualifications to the UK education system, comparing them to UK qualifications and framework levels) – full details can be found at https://www.enic.org.uk/.
Q: What is the recruitment process for the EMT1 apprenticeship?
A. Should your application be shortlisted, as part of the recruitment process candidates will go through a situational judgement assessment, interview, and driving assessment. You need to pass all three elements to be successful.
Q. What will the driving assessment involve?
A. You will be required to complete a driving assessment lasting 30-40 minutes. This will involve driving a larger vehicle, and you will be observed by a driving instructor who will assess if you hold the skills required to pass the emergency driver training that forms part of the emergency medical technician apprenticeship. You will not be expected to drive under blue light conditions as part of this assessment and will drive at normal road speed.
Q: How much are apprentices paid at NWAS?
A.80% of top of pay band 4 – year 1
85% of top of pay band 4 – year 2
Upon completion of an apprenticeship, you go to the bottom of pay band and progress through the pay band on an annual basis in increments.
Q. I’m currently working for another Trust in the NHS, will my pay be matched?
A. Unfortunately not, you will be moved to the apprentice rate in line with the information identified on the advert. However, your NHS service will transfer over.
Q. What does this new qualification mean for access to paramedic programmes?
A. As this is a nationally recognised level 4 qualification, this also provides direct access to the second year of current and future Paramedic programmes. You can apply for the paramedic apprenticeship internally 9 Months after completion of the EMT1 apprenticeship.
Q. I am prepared to work in more than one area currently being advertised, do I need to submit more than one application?
A. There will be only one application form for all areas. If you are invited to the assessment, you will be asked to complete a sector preference form for the area you wish to work within. (An example of this form will be attached to the advert documents). Please note that you may not be allocated the area requested. Allocations to sector and base station will be made on where the vacancies are available.
Q: Can you give me any tips for completing the application forms?
A. On all adverts there is a section called “Documents to download” – here you will find a document called “Application Guidance/support” – which provides you with step-by-step guidance on completing the application forms. When you come to the supporting information section on the application form, ensure that you read the job description and person specification in full. Using the person specification, demonstrate that you meet each of the criteria using examples from your career, voluntary roles, or personal life. A great way to do this is to use STAR – situation, task, action, result.
Useful Links and Clips
The North West Ambulance Service currently posts all jobs on http://jobs.nwas.nhs.uk/
For information about roles in North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust go to: https://www.nwas.nhs.uk/careers/roles/
Join the frontline team at North West Ambulance Service: our stories – YouTube
How to become an emergency medical technician – BBC Bitesize
