The inspection conducted at the end of July highlighted our commitment to delivering high-quality education and training for our apprentices, who are preparing to become Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) through the level 4 associate ambulance practitioner apprenticeship program. 

The report praised us for our bespoke and ambitious curriculum, which combines theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and real-world experience. Inspectors noted that apprentices develop substantial knowledge and skills early in their training, enabling them to make informed decisions and provide compassionate care in time-critical situations. ​ 

We currently have more than 300 learners on the path to becoming EMTs. Apprentices undergo a 14-week clinical education training course followed by emergency response driver training, before joining ambulance crews across the North West to complete the on-the-job training requirements of the apprenticeship.  

The inspection also commended us for our outstanding approach to behaviour and attitudes, with apprentices embracing the Trust’s values of working together and making a difference. Apprentices were described as resilient, empathetic, and confident professionals who treat patients with respect and care. ​ 

NWAS Assistant Director of Workforce Development, Carol Offer, says, “We are incredibly proud to retain our overall rating of ‘good’”. It reflects the dedication of our educators, driving instructors, and practice education practitioners in supporting our apprentices to become skilled and compassionate emergency medical technicians. ​ At NWAS, we are committed to providing high-quality training that prepares our apprentices for the challenges of the job while ensuring they feel safe and supported throughout their journey.” ​ 

In further recognition of our commitment to apprenticeships, earlier this year, we were named 27th in The Sunday Times Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers for 2025. These rankings recognise the service’s commitment to creating new apprenticeships, the diversity of their apprentices, and the number who complete their apprenticeships. 

In addition to the EMT apprentices trained “in-house,” there are over 400 other NWAS staff currently on apprenticeships delivered by external providers. These include paramedic apprentices, advanced clinical practitioner apprentices, and many others gaining non-clinical qualifications, such as accountancy and taxation, data analysis, and more.