University of Cumbria appoints national paramedic education leader Ian Teague as Professor of Practice

Ian Teague brings over 25 years of experience in paramedic education and leadership, including shaping national apprenticeship and specialist paramedic programmes. The apprenticeship programme alone has been adopted by several ambulance trusts and has graduated over 1,000 paramedics to date. 

Ian has held a variety of roles, including Patient Transport Service, Paramedic, Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) Paramedic, and multiple education leadership positions within South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS). Most recently, he concluded his tenure as Assistant Director of Education at SCAS in July 2025, where he led transformative initiatives in workforce development, clinical education, simulation, digital innovation, continuing professional development (CPD), apprenticeships, driving standards, statutory compliance, and mental health support. 

He now serves as Chief Clinical Information Officer at Class Professional, where he provides clinical support, guides new business development, supports customers, contributes to national clinical guidelines, and expands digital apps and CPD offerings for ambulance staff in the UK and abroad. 

Ian began his ambulance service career in 1987 and qualified as a paramedic in 1992. A founding member of the National Education Network of Ambulance Services (NENAS), he continues to support trusts across disciplines, including dementia care, simulation, statutory training, and digital learning. 

He is deeply passionate about advancing the paramedic profession and harnessing technology to enhance both learner and staff experiences. 

Ian’s influence extends beyond the ambulance service. He has served as National Education Advisor for England with the College of Paramedics, contributed to Health Education England’s paramedic workforce strategy, and supported curriculum design and validation across multiple universities. His voluntary service includes roles with the Red Cross, as a Police Special Constable, and as a Governor for the Thames Valley Police Apprenticeship Programme. He has also led international projects for over a decade, fostering recruitment, partnerships, and knowledge exchange. 

Joining the University of Cumbria’s Centre of Excellence in Paramedic Practice, part of its Institute of Health, Ian said: “I have loved working in the ambulance service, education, and associated organisations for nearly 40 years. I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the most dedicated and caring people, and I now look forward to continuing my support of learners, paramedicine, and the wider pre-hospital community as a Professor of Practice at Cumbria and Chief Clinical Information Officer at Class Professional. There is so much important work ahead to support learners, advance the profession, guide organisations, and improve patient outcomes. I’m excited for the next chapter of my paramedic journey. 

“Coming from a very average academic background, I never imagined I would be appointed as a Professor of Practice. I’m thrilled to have been awarded this prestigious role and eager to get started.” 

Tom Davidson, associate professor in paramedicine and director for the Centre of Excellence in Paramedic Practice at University of Cumbria, said: “We are delighted to welcome Ian Teague as a Professor of Practice. Ian’s extensive experience and commitment have made a significant contribution to the paramedic profession, shaping its development and standing over many years.  

“This appointment is a fitting recognition of his influence and achievements. Ian will also be working with us to enhance our understanding, provide valuable insight, and help shape our strategic direction, ensuring we continue to develop and innovate for the future.” 

* Information about the University of Cumbria Institute of Health can be found at https://www.cumbria.ac.uk/study/academic-departments/institute-of-health/

ENDS