Fast response for career success
Ian's story
Fast response for career success
With 20 years’ experience as a paramedic under his belt, you may think there wouldn’t be much more for Ian Binnington to learn about his sector. Already offered a new role as an Advanced Paramedic Practitioner, however, the MSc Advanced Healthcare student is living proof that Masters study can transform your future.
Ian, from Wrexham, North Wales joined the ambulance service in 1997 having left the military. He qualified as a paramedic in 1999 and spent 20 years working in his local area. During this time Ian worked as an mentor for newly qualified paramedics, a clinical team leader on the North Wales air ambulance and a rapid responder.
“When funding became available to undertake an Advanced Practitioner course I jumped at the opportunity,” smiles Ian. “I’d never been to University so it was a little daunting but I really liked the idea of challenging myself and furthering my career.”
Ian decided to study at LJMU because he liked the modular structure of the course. Being part-time, the programme also enabled him to carry on working full-time during his studies. “I really liked the way I could work locally and then get on the train and travel to Liverpool to study,” he says. “It was nice to separate the two elements and give myself space to develop.”
The impact on Ian’s day-to-day work was evident from day one. “The new skills I picked up really helped me in my work,” he recalls. “You learn quickly on the programme and the staff here are very good. They offer fabulous support, make it very clear what is expected of you and nothing is too much trouble for them.”
In terms of career development, Ian was planning to complete his Masters and then look for an Advanced Practitioner role. Things didn’t quite work out that way, however, and he was offered a post whilst still studying.
“An advanced Practitioner role centres around hospital avoidance for patients that can be treated effectively elsewhere,” Ian explains. “That means working in clinical response out on the road, deploying the right resources from the command and control centre and in primary care placements alongside GPs and other specialist staff.”
There’s no doubt that Masters study was the right choice for Ian but what would he say to others looking to take on a postgraduate qualification? “Embrace it!” he smiles. “Don’t be scared, believe in yourself. Sure, it is challenging and sometimes difficult but the benefits will far outweigh the hard work you put in.”
Read more stories like this in MasterPlan – the LJMU magazine for postgraduate students.
If, like Ian, you’re interested in working in the healthcare sector, take a look at our postgraduate courses today.
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