Courses at Scottish Ambulance College

The Scottish Ambulance College (SAC) is the only HPC accredited centre for the teaching of paramedics in Scotland.

The SAC is situated within Barony Castle, its home for the past 14 years, approximately 18 miles South of Edinburgh. Barony Castle has 78 bedrooms, pool, sauna and gymnasium, allowing students to relax after long days in class or dealing with simulated patients in the castle or the 25 surrounding acres. Approximately 200 students per year pass through the various elements of their programmes.

The Scottish Ambulance College is also the HQ of the Education and Professional Development Department providing delivery of core courses and support to divisional training teams facilitating CPD.

The paramedic practice program delivered by the SAC is a two year programme facilitated by a team of Paramedic Education Specialist supported by a network of Practice Placement Educators and Paramedic Mentors.

Although mainly Scottish Ambulance Staff are trained, there are a number of students from various agencies such as other NHS ambulance services, private ambulance companies, fire services and the MOD passing through the Scottish Ambulance College programmes every year.

Both the Paramedic Foundation (year 1) and Paramedic Practice (year 2) elements have a residential phase based at SAC before progression to practice placement within operational divisions throughout the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) or with other HPC accredited placement providers.

The SAC Emergency Response Driving Programme consists of three weeks delivered to UK ambulance award standards. This is facilitated in Driver Training Units (DTUs).

These DTUs are SAS livered and equipped with audio/visual warning systems and video cameras to assist in the debriefing of students, additionally the rear of the DTU's doubles as a mobile classroom with seating and whiteboard for tuition and/or debriefing. This programme is integral to the Foundation element however it is also delivered as a stand alone element.