Two local medical students who are employed as ambulance care assistants have been shadowing the St John Ambulance and Rescue Service on medical emergencies across Guernsey, Sark and Herm this month.

The former Elizabeth College students, Mathew Beck and Daniel Carvil are employed on a retained contract during their holidays. Mathew is a first-year medical student at the University of Buckingham and Daniel is in his third year as a medical student at Southampton University.

Ambulance care assistants provide a non-emergency role at St John, principally transferring patients from their homes to medical appointments if they have mobility difficulties.

During this most recent break, they have also had the opportunity to shadow paramedics in emergency situations and to assist with some minor clinical procedures.

The highlight of Mathew’s experience was the opportunity to join the team on a quad bike rescue in Herm.

He said: “I never expected to have such a brilliant opportunity so early on in my career. It has allowed me to put what I have learned on my course into practice and will really help me when I am back at university.”

Daniel said: “My time with St John has helped me learn so much about patient care and medical techniques. It’s been incredible to meet and help so many different people and really feel like you are changing lives for the better.”

Both students hope to continue working for St John for their remaining time at university.

[su_quote cite=”Chief Officer of the St John Ambulance and Rescue Service, Jon Beausire”]It’s been great to have Mathew and Daniel back in the team again over the Easter break. We are happy to be able to offer young people who study relevant degrees off-island the opportunity to get hands-on experience and hope that they gain a good insight into the service the St John Ambulance and Rescue Services team provides islanders.[/su_quote]