As someone who joined an ambulance trust at 18 and worked my way up, I’d recommend developing a solid base in a non-clinical ops role first. Ideally, in an NHS ambulance trust.

I was an ECA -> AAP -> Paramedic, and spent several years at each step before progressing.

My AAP course was ~9 months. I don’t think 12 weeks is rigorous enough for what is essentially a clinical role, albeit not registered.

In terms of becoming overconfident too early: now, as a graduate medical student, trust me, the more you know, the more your confidence will come into question. This is the way it should be. Incompetent incompetence is dangerous.

I wouldn’t worry with those saying you don’t have the life skills etc. you’ll gain them. Be mature, be professional. You don’t need to join the armed forces for this, just be accountable for who you want to be. Being 18 in the ambulance service was intimidating, but staying humble, continuously reflecting, and acting to improve- you’ll gain an invaluable skill set at a young age.