Modular ECA to Tech course launches in Essex following your feedback

The first modular ECA to technician conversion course is being launched in Essex next month, giving staff a new way of progressing through the organisation.

The group of 12, who will spend one a day a week in the classroom, will start the 26-week course in March. They’ll undertake the usual theory and assessment before completing 450 hours on the road, practicing their new skills for their portfolio.

Locality Director Rob Ashford said he was pleased to finally be able to offer this opportunity to his staff: “I’m very proud that, thanks to a lot of work between my managers, staff and the training department, Essex is the first area to be offering this brilliant opportunity to our ECAs.

“It’s really important that we all continue to give everyone, no matter their role, the chance to develop and progress their skills here at EEAST.”

Those on the course are making their own arrangements to attend, and are the first 12 of a planned 60 to go through the conversion program this year.

Marcus Bailey, Consultant Paramedic, said: “Thanks to feedback from staff and the drive from colleagues, we were able to look into delivering this modular option. It’s a great achievement for everyone involved, and I want to thank them in making this happen.

“The Trust is completely committed to giving all our ECAs the chance to become technicians if they want to, whether on the standard or conversion course – everyone will be given that opportunity, which is absolutely the right thing to do.”

Planning is in place between area teams to get the conversion course set up in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, and Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire soon. Keep an eye out for more details in Need to Know.

Published 12th February 2015