Entry Qualifications for EMT Training

To apply to train as an EMT, you must meet the following criteria:

For current NIAS Patient Care Services staff:

3 GCSEs at Grade C or above (including English and Maths) or equivalent qualifications and hold a valid Ambulance Care Assistant Award AND pass a IHCD/EMT pre-entry test.

For applicants outside of the NI Ambulance Service:

Applicants for EMT training must have 5 GCSE subjects at Grade C or above, including English and Maths or equivalent qualifications, OR 3 GCSEs at Grade C or above including English and Maths or equivalent qualifications AND hold an IHCD Ambulance Care AwardAND be prepared to sit the IHCD/EMT pre-entry test. Candidates must also hold a full unrestricted driving licence, which must include categories C1 and D1. Applicants with up to 3 penalty points on their licence will be considered.

Training is on a residential basis to allow time for study and practice.

Four IHCD modules are delivered over an 11-week period, on a residential basis. This includes a 2-week Advanced Driver Training Course and a 9-week theory and practical programme designed to equip EMTs with the necessary skills to provide effective care and management of patients at the scene of an accident and en-route to hospital. The training covers subjects such as anatomy and physiology, resuscitation, ambulance equipment, defibrillation, special conditions such as major incidents, chemical incidents, violent patients and special procedures such as sudden death. A 12-month period of assessment follows the formal EMT training course during which time trainees must pass 4 quarterly assessments.

On successful completion of this period, trainees are deemed qualified and are presented with an IHCD Award.

Entry Qualifications for Paramedic Training

Applications for Paramedic Training will only be considered from qualified EMTs with the following criteria:

• Have carried out EMT skills and responsibilities competently for a minimum of 2 years;
• 5 GCSE’s at Grade C or above (including English or Maths) or equivalent qualifications;
• Hold a full unrestricted driving licence, which must include categories C1 and D1. Applicants with up to 3 penalty points on their licence will be considered.
• Pass the IHCD/Paramedic pre-entry test.

Training is on a residential basis to allow time for study and practice.

Students undertake three IHCD modules delivered over an 11 week period, on a residential basis. Modules G and H focus on Advanced CPR, Intubation, Infusion, ECG Interpretation, Defibrillation, Drug Therapy, Collapse and Trauma. Modules I1 and I2 focus on Paediatrics and Obstetrics/Gynaecology. Students then undertake a 4 week placement in hospital departments during which time they are assessed in areas such as Intubation, Cannulation, Infusion, Airway Management, Artificial Ventilation, Blood Sampling, ECGs, Defibrillation and Use of Drugs.