Introduction
This process provides applicants (you) and the education provider (Outreach Rescue) with comprehensive and transparent information regarding the admissions process, ensuring informed choices and compliance with HCPC Standards of Education and Training.
Recruitment Stages:
Stage 1: Application and Shortlisting
- Applicants submit an application form providing detailed personal, professional, and educational background, including current employment or sponsorship details.
- Outreach Rescue shortlists candidates based on predetermined criteria, ensuring they meet minimum academic and professional requirements.
Stage 2: Selection and Conditional Offer
- Shortlisted applicants undergo a selection process, which includes:
- A structured interview to assess suitability for the programme.
- A review of their employment/sponsorship arrangements to confirm access to appropriate practice-based learning environments.
- An evaluation of their ability to meet the programme competencies.
- Successful candidates receive a conditional offer, subject to:
- Proof of employment or sponsorship from an employer/sponsoring organisation.
- A signed learning agreement between the applicant, employer/sponsor, and Outreach Rescue, confirming access to practice-based learning and qualified Practice Educators.
- An acceptable Disclosure and Barring Service check.
- Occupational Health Check.
Stage 3: Unconditional Offer
- Once all conditions are satisfied, including submission of required documentation and learning agreements, applicants receive an unconditional offer to join the programme.
Key Points of Clarification
Access to Practice-Based Learning Opportunities:
Outreach Rescue recognises that applicants may come from specialised paramedic practice environments, such as search and rescue. To ensure access to a wide range of learning opportunities:
- Applicants must provide evidence of access to placement opportunities through their employer/sponsoring organisation.
- The learning agreement outlines specific responsibilities for employers to facilitate diverse placement experiences, including external placements, if their primary role is too niche.
- Outreach Rescue will assist students in securing supplementary placements if required, to meet programme competencies.
Provision of Qualified Practice Educators:
Employers/sponsoring organisations must commit to providing appropriately qualified and experienced Practice Educators for students. All Practice Educators meet the standards required to facilitate effective learning experiences.
- Conflict of interest protocols are in place, ensuring fair and unbiased assessments.
- Training and support are provided to Practice Educators to maintain standards.
Contingency Plans for Employment Changes:
If a student’s employment ends or their employer can no longer support them:
- Outreach Rescue will work with the student seeking to secure alternative sponsorship or employer support.
- Outreach Rescue maintains a network of placement providers to ensure the continuity of practice-based learning.
Clarity in Admissions Information:
Participation in the programme requires sponsorship or employment that facilitates access to appropriate practice-based learning.
A signed learning agreement between the applicant, employer/sponsor, and Outreach Rescue is mandatory.