Paramedic courses at the University of Central Lancashire

So, why Preston, of all places? The School of Health within the University of Central Lancashire is a well established provider of health care education at both pre and post registration levels, having evolved from the former Lancashire School of Nursing, joining the University in 1996. The school currently offers pre-registration preparation for nurses (adult, child and mental health branches), midwives, operating department practitioners and, most recently, paramedics.

Just over a decade ago the Government published The NHS Plan: a plan for investment and a plan for reform (Department of Health (DH), 2000) with the aim of creating a health service fit for the 21st century.

This vision shaped the beginning of a climate of change by examining the responsiveness of the NHS to the needs of its users, through quality assurance and enhancement, widening access and staff development to the needs of its users, measured levels of quality, widened its accessibility and provided guidance for the service and its staff in accomplishing its target. Key components of the plan included clear leadership, new ways of working and, most importantly, investment in its current workforce to develop skilled practitioners and teams with the knowledge and skills required to deliver excellence in care.