Health and Social Care students at a North-East college have received a massive boost with the arrival of a fully equipped ambulance and life-saving equipment.

Redcar and Cleveland College is believed to be the first in the region to invest in an ambulance, which will give students first hand experience of operating in a realistic environment, using the latest paramedic and Accident and Emergency apparatus.

Accommodation is being developed to house the ambulance and to enable a mock A&E department and general ward to be established, where students can learn the latest in health and social care, while also brushing up on their bedside manner.

Angela McLean, the college's head of education and well-being, said the ambulance and equipment would also enable tutors to deliver bespoke work-based courses to employees of local companies and agencies.

She said: "We are delighted that Redcar & Cleveland College has invested heavily in the ambulance and latest health and social care equipment because our students will really reap the benefits and will gain experiences that no other college can offer them.

"The training ambulance was in use not so long ago, and while it has been adapted for us for teaching purposes, it is still fully functional. It will enable the students to test their knowledge and skills and will give them confidence for when they do start working in the health and social care profession.

"We are extremely fortunate because even universities don't have an ambulance, so our learning environment is now very unique. It will have a massive impact on our students and will make learning more fun, realistic and interactive."

Among the training apparatus at the college are dummies that moan, groan and even choke, along with wheelchairs and beds.

Angela said she hoped specialists, such as paramedics, would come into college to offer training to both the BTEC students and schoolchildren, who will be taking part in a Health and Social Care day release programme from September.

Principal Gary Groom said he was delighted that Redcar & Cleveland College was leading the way in Health and Social Care provision.

"Health and Social Care is a growing sector that offers a huge range of careers to young people in the North-East, so, of course, we want to provide our students with the best and latest equipment that will help prepare them for working in the profession," said Gary.