1. A-level Pathways to Success Evening Public Services
(Paramedic, Police, Fire and Rescue)

2. Considering a career in Public Services?
Grades Required:
To become a paramedic you'll need a foundation degree, diploma of higher education (DipHE) or degree in paramedic science or paramedic emergency care. You could also start as a student paramedic or trainee technician for an ambulance service. 
Each police force has its own recruitment requirements but applicants must be 18 years or older so students can apply after completing their A-levels and/or a degree in Public Services, Policing or a related field.
To become a firefighter students can apply to go through the National Firefighter Selection process (once 18 or over) which includes physical and personal qualities tests. You could also study for a degree. For example there is a BSc (Hons) Fire and Leadership Studies at the University of Central Lancashire - in partnership with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service.
You may also need good GCSEs (A* to C) in English and maths, depending on which fire service you want to join.
Volunteering in a support role will give you an idea of the job, as well as access to internal vacancies.

3. Considering a career in Public Services?
Application Process:
Paramedic: You will need to apply for university via the usual UCAS route. Alternatively, you can apply for the Student Paramedic route. This is a competitive route and Ambulance Services set their own entry requirements. A-levels in health or science related qualifications are advantageous.
Police: On receiving your application form, the force that you have applied to will check your eligibility and mark your responses to competency questions. If your application is successful, you will be invited to attend an assessment centre followed by a fitness test you will then take a fitness test. Finally, your references will be checked, you'll undergo a background, security, medical and eyesight checks.
Firefighter: You must be 18, though you can apply slightly earlier as long as you're 18 by the time you get the job.
You'll need to pass a series of physical and written tests, a medical and an interview.
doing a fire service pre-recruitment course - ask your your local fire service for local courses
taking the Award/Certificate/Diploma in Fire and Rescue Services in the Community .

4. Considering a career in Public Services?
Choosing your route:
As stated there are university and non-university routes into all three careers.
Students should visit websites such as and
for full details as well as discussing options with staff at Carr Hill Sixth Form Centre, who would be happy to help students decide on the best route for them.

5. Considering a career in Public Services?
Work Experience:
Paramedic: You'll usually be expected to have some related care experience which may include: experience of dealing with the public, especially sick, disabled and elderly people; first aid certificates as evidence of your interest or voluntary experience in an organisation such as St John Ambulance.
Police: Pre-entry experience is not essential, although it is advantageous to have some experience of working with individuals or groups in the community. Other useful experience might be as a volunteer, such as in the Volunteer Police Cadets. You can also volunteer to be a police community support officer (PCSO) or a special constable often referred to as a 'Special‘ (you must be 18 or over).
Firefighter: Due to health and safety requirements, work experience isn't possible although you may be able to be placed as an observer in a fire station or attend an open day, so contact the fire and rescue service you're interested in to enquire.
Carr Hill Sixth Form Centre can help students to gain work experience places within local public services organisations where applicable.

6. Considering a career in Public Services?
Further career paths:
In addition to the careers we have discussed during this presentation, you may also be interested in one or more of the roles detailed below. Carr Hill Sixth Form can support students hoping to work in any of these roles.
Please speak to a member of staff for more information.
Diver
Dog handler
Fingerprint officer
Forensic computer analyst
Immigration officer
Merchant navy deck officer
Merchant navy engineering officer
Merchant navy rating
Neighbourhood warden
Prison governor
Prison instructor
Prison officer
Private investigator
Probation services officer
RAF airman or airwoman
RAF non-commissioned aircrew
RAF officer
Road traffic accident investigator
Royal marines commando
Royal marines officer
Royal navy officer
Royal navy rating
Scenes of crime officer
Security officer
Security service personnel

7. Career Preparation Programme
As part of the Public Services Preparation programme as a student at Carr Hill Sixth, you will benefit from:
The sixth form will arrange work experience in a suitable setting.
The sixth form will arrange regular university visits to take part in workshops and to meet tutors.
The sixth form will help me prepare a portfolio of experience to help you secure a university place or help with your application.

8. Considering a career in Public Services?
Any Questions?