Wellbeing

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

College

You could do a college course to get some of the computer and typing skills you'll need in this job.

You could do a level 2 award in touch typing or a level 2 ICDL award in IT user skills.

Apprenticeship

You can get into this role through an emergency service contact handling advanced apprenticeship.

You'll usually need to be over 18 years old and might need a GCSE grade 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English or equivalent.

Volunteering and work experience

You'll find it helpful to have some healthcare experience before applying for a job.

You could:

• get advice about volunteering in the NHS
• do first aid work with the British Red Cross or St John Ambulance
• find volunteering opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations and Do IT

Direct application

You can apply directly to your local ambulance service.

Each service sets their own entry requirements, but it could help your application if you have:

• GCSEs grade 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English, maths and science
• experience in customer service, like a call centre operator
• map reading skills and knowledge of local geography
• an understanding of medical terminology
• a recognised and current first aid qualification

Requirements and restrictions

You'll need to:

• be over 18 years of age
• pass background checks

More information

Career tips

You'll be expected to understand how the NHS values apply in your work when applying for a job.

Further information

You can find out more about how to become an emergency medical dispatcher from Health Careers.

View all vacancies in this region

With experience, you could become a team leader or control room superintendent.

You could also do additional training to become an emergency care assistant or paramedic.