‘They inspired me’: Apprentice turns family experience into a paramedic career helping others

At just 24, Hannah Mickleburgh-Gardham is on the verge of completing her paramedic degree apprenticeship with the University of Cumbria and is sharing her journey to inspire others as the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) marks National Apprenticeship Week (9–15 February).

This will be the second apprenticeship Hannah has completed with EEAST, after joining as an apprentice Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in August 2020, based at Southend.

Hannah’s ambition to join the ambulance service began when paramedics cared for both her mum and nan during difficult moments.

She said: “After seeing how incredibly they looked after my family, and the way they reassured me, I knew working for the ambulance service was what I wanted to do.”

A taster session at Southend Ambulance Station encouraged Hannah to consider an apprenticeship pathway rather than a traditional university degree, a decision she says transformed her future.

Hannah, who has ADHD and dyslexia, said the structure and support of the apprenticeship programme helped her thrive in ways she never expected.

Hannah said: “Looking back, it was absolutely the right decision for me. The apprenticeship route helped me build my confidence academically, while learning hands-on from so many amazing colleagues.

“Earning while you’re learning is a big plus; it takes the pressure off and gives you real life experience at the same time.

“I’m now thinking about taking the next step and starting a master’s degree, something I never imagined I would consider. I didn’t feel that traditional academic routes were for me at school, but this experience has shown me what I’m capable of. I’ve proven to myself that I can do it.”

Hannah says she carries her personal experiences into every patient interaction.

“People often talk about the big, dramatic incidents, but for me it’s the quieter moments, reassuring someone or comforting a family member. I remember being in their shoes, and those moments stay with me.”

Her natural warmth and communication skills have become a key part of her care.

“I’m a bit of a chatterbox really, and I like to make patients feel at ease. It makes a huge difference,” she says.

Hannah is also passionate about public engagement, regularly visiting schools and community events to teach CPR and raise awareness about what to do in an emergency.

“Teaching is something I’m very passionate about. I love going into schools and supporting the next generation. Last year I helped at Emergency Services Day on Southend seafront, which I loved, speaking to the public about our roles and the importance of knowing CPR.”

Promoting apprenticeships at EEAST

Hannah’s journey reflects the wide range of opportunities available through EEAST’s apprenticeship programmes. From building essential frontline skills as an Emergency Care Assistant through to degree level paramedic training, apprenticeships offer a supported and structured route into a clinical career – whether for school leavers, career changers, or those returning to education.

National Apprenticeship Week highlights how apprenticeships open doors to rewarding careers in emergency care, enabling people like Hannah to provide life changing support to patients and communities across the East of England.

“If you’re thinking about it, go for it,” Hannah says. “You learn so much, and you’re supported every step of the way.”