About Us

Jordy’s first few months have been busy but she says she’s “absolutely loving it.” With station duties, ordering store equipment, driver training and getting to know colleagues, there is more to learn than just clinical skills. A myriad of jobs to attend each day and the severity of them diverse.

“In one day you could go to a motorcycle or car accident that sadly results in a death, an elderly person who has had a fall and then a paediatric patient who has had a seizure. I learn something new on every job, and that’s why I love being on the road.”

She says she doesn’t think she could say what a normal day looks like as every day is completely different.

“One thing that’s always the same though, is when the beginning of your shift starts with handover from the crew before you, you do your vehicle check to ensure your ambulance is fully stocked with all the equipment and medication necessary to be functional, and then you are ready for your shift.”

With a big introduction it could be overwhelming, but Jordy’s Green Shift colleagues are kind, welcoming and passionate about continuous learning and development to keep her on her toes.

“If we have down time on station, we’ll run white board scenarios to develop our knowledge, involving all colleagues and encouraging input from everyone. It’s a completely safe and supportive environment, so as a junior member of the team it’s really encouraging and extremely valuable.”

Along with her Green Shift colleagues, Jordy’s mentor Caroline has already made an extremely positive impact to the start of Jordy’s career. With over 10 years’ experience as a paramedic, Caroline is encouraging, patient and supportive in all areas of the job. From basic geographical directions and clinical knowledge, to ensuring her intern is okay after a tough job.

“She always answers the millions of questions I have for her, even when it’s 3am! Caroline is amazing, and pushes me to be the best I can be.”

Jordy spent three years studying paramedicine at Whitireia working on theory, practical scenarios, on road placements and a number of clinical hours. “My highlight was definitely on road placements as this really represented what a day in the life of a paramedic was about” says Jordy.

“I was lucky enough to work with Caroline as a student in my third year, so when I found out Caroline was going to be my preceptor as a newly qualified graduate, I was ecstatic!”

Jordy says she remembers being offered her position as a graduate like it was yesterday.

“I couldn’t believe it, I had so many emotions at once. I was excited, nervous, happy but most of all I couldn’t wait to start work. I feel really privileged to have been offered a position, as I really admire that Wellington Free provides free health care to the community, and that alone is reason enough to work for such an honourable organisation.”

Jordy says she believes Wellington Free is renowned for the outstanding calibre of its paramedics, and this is something she will to strive towards, acknowledging that now the hard work really starts.

“What I have already learnt from Caroline is invaluable and I’m really looking forward to the rest of our time learning together. I hope I’ll be as good as her one day.”

Even after only a few months on the road, Jordy says that Caroline and her team on Green Shift has made her feel like she’s part of a massive family and has enjoyed a great introduction to her career as a paramedic.