Former Crawley College ambulance service apprentice wins national award

A former Crawley College student received a national ambulance award at the annual Ambulance Leadership Forum Awards recently.

Jaidan Perna was recognised for his outstanding service, handling and observations at the ceremony, which took place in Leeds on Tuesday 11 March, recognised Jaidan’s handling and observations.

The awards invite ambulance services nationwide to come together and celebrate individuals for their exceptional contribution or outstanding service.

Jaidan studied as an apprentice Associate Ambulance Practitioner (AAP) at Crawley College, finishing his course in the summer of 2024.

He has since gone on to be a student paramedic with the South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) in Hastings.

Jaidan said:
“I originally got the SECAmb in-house star of the month award, which is like an employee of the month award. Then a few months later, I got an email when I was at home, saying you are invited to come to the outstanding service awards in Leeds.

“The ceremony was crazy, there was a room with so many people, there must have been 300-400, and everyone I spoke to had a big title, they were really interesting people. It was a really great event.”

Jaidan also talked about his time at Crawley College, saying:
“I went to Crawley College because it gives you a good way of building experience early on, you get to build up experience and gain confidence on the road. I think it is a role where you need to learn by experience rather than sitting in front of a screen.

“I really enjoyed the time when everyone got their epaulettes, it’s quite a nice feeling when you’re part of a cohort, and you work through it all together, and getting to see everyone progress together.”

Dean Wynter, Acting Principal of Crawley College, added:
“Jaidan’s achievement is truly inspiring, and we are incredibly proud of his success. Seeing him thrive and receive national recognition is a testament to his commitment and hard work.

“Jaidan is a real inspiration to our current SECAmb cohort, and his dedication and passion for his work are an example for all our students at Crawley College to follow.”