Lecturer in Paramedic Science & Course Co-ordinator (Integrated Degree) Apprenticeship

I hold a Foundation Degree in Paramedic Science, underpinned by an extensive academic background that includes a Level 6 Honours Degree in Applied Chemistry and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. My educational journey has been shaped by a strong focus on blended learning, demonstrated through the completion of my Foundation Degree via the Open University. This distance-learning program seamlessly combined rigorous academic study with hands-on experience in both the private healthcare sector and the NHS Ambulance Service, highlighting my ability to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Since joining the University of Bedfordshire as a lecturer in February 2021, I have taken a leading role in delivering and enhancing the BSc Paramedic Science curriculum. Within four months, I advanced to Course Coordinator for the full-time direct-entry program and subsequently transitioned to the role of Senior Lecturer. Starting in March 2024, I assumed responsibility for coordinating the BSc Paramedic Science (Integrated Degree) Apprenticeship, with a new course set to launch in January 2025. This program, developed in partnership with the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust, will accommodate two cohorts annually, starting in January and September.

My dedication to professional growth has shaped me into a reflective practitioner with expertise in clinical examination and history-taking skills, initially developed during a minor injuries course and further enhanced through General Practice training. My passion for education has been consistently recognised, with students frequently requesting me as a Practice Educator in both the NHS ambulance service and private healthcare settings. This reflects my commitment to fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Alongside my contributions to paramedic science, I bring over 26 years of experience as a secondary school teacher, specialising in curriculum design, instructional leadership, and assessment moderation for GCSE and GCE levels. My experience spans diverse educational settings, where I have designed and implemented schemes of work aligned with Department for Education standards.

Paramedic education is evolving, with a growing emphasis on practice-based learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and expanded paramedic roles in areas like critical care, public health, emergency preparedness, and primary care. I have championed these advancements through my teaching and curriculum development. I also contributed to the Paramedic Curriculum 6th Edition 2024, published by the College of Paramedics, further aligning my work with the latest professional standards. Leveraging high-fidelity simulation and digital learning platforms, I strive to enrich the student experience and prepare them for the challenges of modern healthcare environments.

With a passion for education and a forward-looking approach, I am committed to shaping the future of paramedic science, equipping students with the skills, resilience, and innovation needed to excel in a rapidly evolving field.

Qualifications

• Foundation Degree in Paramedic Science – Open University
• Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare Sciences – Open University
• Post Graduate Certificate in Education – Sheffield City Polytechnic
• BSc Hons Applied Chemistry – Sheffield City Polytechnic

Teaching Expertise

• 26 years’ experience in Secondary Level education specialising in science, including A-level Chemistry
• Private tutor in GCSE Science, Mathematics, and A-level Chemistry
• Course leader for BSc Paramedic Science

Research Interests

• The wider use of Capnography as a diagnostic tool in Paramedic Practice
• Simulation in Paramedic Education

Contact Details

rob.cawston@beds.ac.uk