Becoming a flying paramedic is an incredibly specialist role, and because of that, it’s also one of the most sought-after.
Whenever we open applications, the response is overwhelming. In our most recent round, we received 96 applications from across the country. And it’s no wonder – after all, who wouldn’t want the chance to work at the very top of their field, while riding in a helicopter? It’s a pretty unique (and let’s be honest, very cool) job.
To give you a better insight, we caught up with John, one of our paramedics who has been with our charity for five years, and now oversees training and recruitment.
Having played a key role in this year’s recruitment drive, John shares what he looks for in an ideal candidate, and why our process is designed to be so rigorous.
How candidates are shortlisted
To make it through the first stage, candidates must meet essential criteria listed in the application. This includes having the right qualifications and hands-on operational experience, whether that’s working alongside ambulance crews or in other pre-hospital care settings.
During the initial CV sift, applications are filtered for key requirements such as holding a full UK driving licence and advanced emergency driving skills. Candidates must also be HCPC registered for at least three years, hold a BSc in paramedic science, and have a minimum of three years’ patient-facing experience as a paramedic.
But we don’t stop there. To join our team, we’re also looking for those who go above and beyond – the ‘desirables’. This could mean advanced qualifications in education or clinical practice, proven leadership experience, or involvement in major incident response.
We also value candidates who have invested in additional training, such as our Pre-Hospital Emergency Medicine Crew Course (PHEMCC) or Pre-Hospital Emergency Anaesthesia (PHEA) course.
All of this is assessed using a points-based system, with the highest-scoring candidates progressing to the next stage.
The interview stage
Shortlisted candidates are invited to our HQ in Eaglescliffe for an assessment day, and we won’t sugar-coat it, it’s pretty intense.
We start by easing applicants in with a PR interview. As a charity-funded organisation, it’s important that new recruits understand that the role goes beyond saving lives. From time to time, our team may be asked to take part in radio interviews or even television appearances. This stage highlights that often overlooked, but essential, aspect of the job.
Next comes a time-restricted exam designed to assess medical knowledge, with a touch of aviation awareness included. Following that, candidates take part in clinical scenarios, where they’re graded on how they assess and respond to different situations.
Finally, candidates face a formal panel interview with three members of our team, who dig deeper to uncover the person behind the application.
The fitness assessment
This is a new addition to our recruitment process, but it’s a hugely important one. The test is based on the national PHEM fitness assessment, so candidates can easily look it up and get an idea of what’s involved.
The job demands a solid level of fitness – our critical care team are constantly going up and down hills and staircases, lifting patients, carrying equipment, and working in tough environments. That means you need strong grip strength, physical resilience, and overall mobility.
And then there’s the aircraft itself… jumping in and out while carrying kit bags that weigh around 20kg each. It’s demanding work, so having stamina isn’t just preferred, it’s essential.
What we’re looking for
We’re also looking for people with the right character. That means being a strong team player, demonstrating good crew resource management, and working well with others, even under pressure, without losing composure.
On top of that, candidates need solid clinical knowledge and, just as importantly, the ability to apply it effectively in high-pressure situations. This is a demanding role, often fast-paced and intense, so we’re looking for individuals who can stay calm, think clearly, and operate confidently when it matters most.
Why simulations are so important
Most recruits will need further training regardless but observing them in action allows us to recognise their potential.
It quickly becomes clear who freezes like a rabbit in the headlights, and who stays calm under pressure – listening, adapting, and responding with confidence, and those are the people we want on our team.
A special word from John
“It is achievable. With GCSE results just out, I want to reassure people – you can do this if you put your mind to it.
“I left school with no GCSEs at all. I was a bit of a daft lad back then (and maybe still am!), but I went back, did everything again, joined the military, and gained all my qualifications. If you’ve got the right attitude and a bit of drive, you can reach your goals.
“You will face setbacks. I had plenty – especially when I was trying to get into critical care. I was knocked back time and time again, with people telling me I’d never make it. But that only pushed me harder.
“So don’t lose hope. Keep persevering, and if you really want it, you’ll get there.”
To learn more about how to become a flying paramedic, read this blog.
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