Potential paramedics of the future start 'innovative' training pathway

Due to graduate in 2026

Five potential paramedics of the future have started their training thanks to an ‘innovative’ paramedic apprenticeship pathway.

Manx Care and the University of Cumbria have formed a partnership which means they can study and train on Island.

Funding has been secured to help 15 people complete their BSC (Hons) Paramedic Science Degree Studies over the next three years.

Four ambulance employees, who are also associate lecturers with the university, will support the students and the delivery of the programme.

The first student cohort is due to graduate in the summer of 2026.

Will Bellamy, Head of the Isle of Man Ambulance Service, said: "Previously people have been deterred from the pathway as they do not want to leave their commitments on the Island.

"Expanding our service in this way will allow us to deliver a more structured approach to our provision of care to the community and will reduce the strain across our hard-working colleagues."

Associate Professor Tom Davidson, Director for the Centre for Excellence for Paramedic Practice at the University of Cumbria, said: "We are proud and excited to support Manx Care and the Isle of Man community through this innovative paramedic apprenticeship pathway.

"Our university is recognised and prides itself on addressing sector, regional and national skills needs.

"We do this by working closely with employers across frontline public services, and many industries to upskill and reskill the workforce.

"This enables our graduates and communities to thrive, now and for generations to come."