Motivational Monday - Sophie Harbour

We were delighted to have Sophie Harbour with us this morning on her day off! Sophie was at Angmering Sixth Form 2017-2019. She knew she wanted to be a Paramedic in Year 12, but after dropping Biology A-level as she found it too difficult, she was worried that she could not qualify. In her second year Sophie completed an Extended Project Qualification, which is worth half an A-level. She also achieved double Distinction* in the Health & Social Care Diploma. With help from Mr Bowles (Careers Manager) Sophie identified two universities which offered the Paramedic Science degree course without Biology A-level being essential, and opted for the University of Worcester. She completed her degree and went straight into a job with South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust.

Sophie explained what a typical day can look like and her shift patterns. No two days are the same!

For anyone considering a career as a Paramedic or other Allied Health Profession, Sophie recommends doing plenty of research into the role and responsibilities, and looking for opportunities to develop the personal attributes needed. People skills are key including empathy, being approachable and flexible, and staying calm in a crisis. Her job requires her to be able to 'take charge' of a situation to reassure people in distrress and to inspire confidence in those assisting her.

A degree is not the only route into being a Paramedic. Emergency Care Support Workers (ECSW) assist qualified Paramedics on calls and a degree is not a requirement. An ECSW position can be a good entry-level role for those aspiring to become a Paramedic in the long term.

Sophie is proof that with determination you can achieve your goals!