Layout 2 - University of Central Lancashire

Paramedic training
brings learning to life
Investing in the very latest classroom learning aids is a key component
of UCLan’s drive to provide an unrivalled student experience.
Within the School of Health, over £40,000 has
been invested to create a simulated, working
ambulance. Complete with a siren and realistic
traffic acoustics, it’s a training aid that couldn’t be
more lifelike.
The full-scale replica ambulance, which comes
complete with the same equipment used on a
daily basis by qualified paramedics, allows UCLan’s
Paramedic Practice students to experience the
complexities of training in a confined environment.
Lizi Hickson, Paramedic Practice Senior Lecturer
and part-time rapid response paramedic, said:
“It’s a fantastic learning tool. It will allow
students to practise in a real-life situation, using
exactly the same equipment as they’ll use out
on placements."
She added: "This is the equivalent of their office –
they are going to spend 12 hours a shift in the
back of one of these so to learn in this
environment is a massive bonus.”
The ambulance, being used by more than 60 Year
1 and 2 students, is also equipped with a camera
and microphone to enable students’ performances
to be analysed and assessed.
Computer-controlled manikins have also been
purchased, to be used in conjunction with the
eye-catching training aid.
Second year student Luke Marriner felt the
ambulance was an ideal learning tool. “When
you’re training you want everything to be as close
to the real thing as possible as it makes such a
difference to your learning experience. This is so
realistic and you can’t get any better than working
in the ambulance.”
Jason Houghton, another second year student,
added: “I think the ambulance is absolutely
fantastic as it provides the vital link between
academic theory and practice.”
Designed and developed in partnership with the
North West Ambulance Service, UCLan’s Diploma
in Paramedic Practice offers students the
opportunity to develop a wide range of clinical
skills each year, with underpinning theoretical
knowledge. The course offers a unique
opportunity to gain a university award and
register as a paramedic with the Health
Professions Council.
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