Paramedic Science as a Second Degree

I previously did a degree in geology, and I've just started one in paramedic science. I've just had my SFE application processed, they said that I wasn't eligible for funding because it's a second degree.

However, my friend on the same course and at the same uni had her application approved - despite also getting a degree previously.

I'm going to call tomorrow to get some clarity but what's the reason for this inconsistency?

Reply 1

Ross SLC

Official Rep

Original post by scabblesahoy

I previously did a degree in geology, and I've just started one in paramedic science. I've just had my SFE application processed, they said that I wasn't eligible for funding because it's a second degree.
However, my friend on the same course and at the same uni had her application approved - despite also getting a degree previously.
I'm going to call tomorrow to get some clarity but what's the reason for this inconsistency?

Hi there,

What level is the Paramedic Science course? What degree do you already hold?

Thanks,
Ross

Reply 2

SFE Clare

Official Rep

Hi scabblesahoy,

Paramedic Science courses are only classed as an exception to previous study rules if you are entitled to funding from the Ambulance Service Trust.

Thanks, Clare

Reply 3

scabblesahoy

Thank you both - I already hold a BSc, this course is an MSci

I also managed to speak to an SFE advisor this morning - they told me that I'd need to confirm with my university that I'm in receipt of a bursary linked to the ambulance trust (as you said Clare). Would the NHS Learning Support Fund qualify for this? And does anyone know how else my friend's application could have been approved but mine wasn't?

Thank you!

Reply 4

Ross SLC

Official Rep

Original post by scabblesahoy

Thank you both - I already hold a BSc, this course is an MSci
I also managed to speak to an SFE advisor this morning - they told me that I'd need to confirm with my university that I'm in receipt of a bursary linked to the ambulance trust (as you said Clare). Would the NHS Learning Support Fund qualify for this? And does anyone know how else my friend's application could have been approved but mine wasn't?
Thank you!

Hi,

Does your Friend have the Ambulance service trust funding as well?

Thanks,
Ross

Reply 5

scabblesahoy

Original post by Ross SLC

Hi,
Does your Friend have the Ambulance service trust funding as well?
Thanks,
Ross

Hi Ross,

The ambulance service trust fund isn't actually an independent fund that exists as far as I can see, so surely the Learning Support Fund would be the relevant bursary in this case? My friend didn't need to provide any evidence of this though

Thanks!

Reply 6

normaw

Volunteer Team, Clearing and Applications Advisor

Original post by scabblesahoy

I have seen this many times on TSR that SFE state that you need Ambulance Trust Funding to be eligible. You will find that Ambulance Trusts have no knowledge of this and no such funding is available. They tend to support the degree apprenticeship route instead.

Paramedic science isn't currently funded as a second degree. There have been changes recently to the NHS LSF for paramedics so that you can get it without being eligible for student finance, but it is of little comfort as it won't cover your tuition fees. There is a long-standing campaign by the College of Paramedics about funding for second degrees to bring it in line with other healthcare courses. Could you see if you can move to a pre-reg masters course instead?

(edited 3 weeks ago)

Reply 7

Claire SFE

Official Rep

Original post by scabblesahoy

Hi Ross,
The ambulance service trust fund isn't actually an independent fund that exists as far as I can see, so surely the Learning Support Fund would be the relevant bursary in this case? My friend didn't need to provide any evidence of this though
Thanks!

Hi scabblesahoy,

We can't comment on your friends account. The rules/regulations set out by The Department For Education state Paramedic Science courses are only classed as an exception if the student is entitled to funding from the Ambulance Service Trust. If you don't know whether your course attracts this funding you would need to speak to your university.

Thanks,
Claire