West Midlands Ambulance Service Leads the Way in Apprenticeships
National Apprenticeship Week takes place from 6-12 February, showcasing the brilliant work of employers and apprentices across the UK. The West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) is at the forefront, being one of the first Ambulance Trusts approved as a Main Training Provider by the Education and Skills Funding Agency for Higher Level Apprenticeships.
WMAS remains the most productive employer in the West Midlands region and the ambulance sector for staff development. It boasts the largest number of student paramedic registered apprentices, setting the standard for apprenticeship excellence.
A Proud History of Apprenticeships Since 2010
The Trust kicked off its apprenticeship journey in 2010 with its first Motor Vehicle Apprenticeship – still going strong today. Now, WMAS offers a wide range of apprenticeships from level 2 up to level 7.
In 2012, the Trust launched its Non-Emergency Patient Transport Scheme, recruiting 289 apprentices over ten years. Currently, 15 apprentices are actively training, with many moving into permanent roles. Impressively, 24 former apprentices are now paramedics, 20 are technicians, seven are advancing on the Student Paramedic pathway, and others support staff training or work in patient transport and other departments.
Building the Future Workforce
“Apprenticeships are central to assisting the Trust to build our future workforce,” says People Director Carla Beechey. “I would like to thank everyone involved in supporting our apprenticeship schemes and helping develop our staff.”
During National Apprenticeship Week, WMAS will shine a spotlight on current and former apprentices via Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram @OfficialWMAS, celebrating their hard graft and career progress.
Fancy joining the team? Discover available roles at https://wmas.nhs.uk/careers-staff-room/job-opportunities-2/ and start your ambulance apprenticeship journey today!
