After more than a decade in customer-facing roles across the UK and New Zealand, Jack Proto knew he wanted more. He loved working with people, but he was searching for something where he could make a real difference. That instinct led Jack to enrol in the Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedicine) at Whitireia and WelTec, and he hasn't looked back since.
"Paramedicine felt like the right mix of working with people, problem-solving, and being able to help in meaningful moments."
Getting started
Jack didn't wait until graduation to get stuck in. At the end of his first year, he joined Wellington Free Ambulance (WFA) as a Patient Transfer Officer, safely transporting patients for non-emergency care. Alongside this, he became a Heartbeat Tutor for the Lloyd Morrison Foundation Heartbeat programme, heading out into the community to teach CPR and how to use an AED.
Both roles gave him an early taste of the environment he was training for every day.
"I like being part of a team that genuinely cares about the community. Every day is different, and you meet people from all walks of life. Working alongside experienced and supportive colleagues has helped me keep learning and improving."
Study
Whitireia and WelTec is one of only two institutions in New Zealand to offer the Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedicine) which is the minimum qualification for registration as a paramedic with Te Kaunihera Manapou (Paramedic Council). Delivered in partnership with Wellington Free Ambulance (WFA), the programme combines theory, self-directed learning, simulation labs, and real clinical placements - with ākonga completing approximately 900 hours of clinical learning across three years.
For Jack, the hands-on nature of the programme was a highlight.
"I've really enjoyed being on campus and learning in person. The tutors are very supportive, and because many of them have real-world experience as frontline paramedics, they're great at preparing us for what the job is actually like. The learning environment is friendly, and it's helpful being surrounded by classmates who are going through the same journey."
Life as a Graduate Paramedic
In January, Jack stepped into his new role as a Graduate Paramedic at WFA a 12-month programme designed to help new graduates transition into shift work and take on the responsibility of being the second crew partner on an ambulance. Jack's shifts are typically 12 hours long, working a 4-on and 4-off pattern with two-day shifts and two nights.
“No two shifts are ever the same - mine usually starts with a coffee, and from there we can be sent anywhere across the Wellington region. We can respond to a wide range of calls, so you never quite know what the day (or night) will bring. It’s as varied as I expected, but the unpredictability is something you only really appreciate once you’re doing it regularly.”
“The team at WFA have been great - welcoming and supportive, especially as you’re just starting out on the journey as a graduate paramedic. It does take a little time to adjust to the fact that you’re no longer a student and this is now your job, but having that support and experience around you makes a big difference.”
Thinking about it?
For anyone considering the paramedic programme, Jack's advice is straightforward.
"I would say go for it. It's a challenging but rewarding experience, and a great mix of practical work, placement, theory, and coursework. For me, the opportunity during our degree to go on placements was an extremely valuable part - it was eye-opening, and I learned a lot being out on the road."
Study Paramedicine at Whitireia and WelTec
Interested in a career where no two days are the same? Check out our range of paramedicine and emergency care programmes.
