A YOUNG trainee paramedic said his inspiration to work in his field came after watching a popular Channel 4 series when he was a teen.

New research carried out across the north west showed that 62 per cent of teenagers are influenced by careers they see portrayed in TV shows they watch.

Dylan Bamber, a 21-year-old from Latchford, first became interested in what has now materialised to be his day job after watch Channel 4’s 999: On the Frontline as well as BBC One’s Ambulance series.

The apprentice is currently training to be a paramedic with North West Ambulance Service.

Having also completed two apprenticeships prior to this, one aged 16 and another when he was 19.

“I’ve always been passionate about helping people and knew from a young age I wanted to work with the ambulance service, having done lots of first aid during my time in the Cadets,” Dylan said.

“For me, being able to earn on the job, alongside studying, was so appealing. I did originally apply to university, but I knew that this route would be the right path for me.”

As the winter months are likely to bring more collective TV time, the Department for Education’s Skills for Life campaign is encouraging parents and teens to make the most of time already spent together watching their favourite shows - to take this inspiration and strike up conversations about the full range of education and training choices out there.

Including the technical pathways on offer such as T Levels, apprenticeships and Higher Technical Qualifications. 

Advocating for the campaign, young MasterChef judge and Michelin-trained chef, Poppy O’Toole, said: “I wish I knew about the many different education and training routes available to me when I was younger.

“After receiving a D in my food technology A-level, I almost gave up on my dream of being a chef. But I’m so glad I didn’t. 

“Fast forward a few years and I’m now Michelin-trained and living out my dream career.”

Dylan echoed this message, adding: “I’d encourage young people to think outside the box when it comes to their next steps, taking inspiration from everywhere, including their favourite TV shows, and considering whether they could imagine doing a job like that.

“There are so many pathways to take now, such as an apprenticeship, it might be just the route for you.”

To find out more about the DfE’s Skills for Life Campaign, visit this link nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/contact-us