Frequently asked questions

No. Learners do not need any previous first aid knowledge or experience to attend our first aid courses. Our courses are designed to start from the basics and are suitable for complete beginners, as well as those who may be refreshing skills for the workplace. This applies to both public courses delivered at our training centre and to in company first aid training delivered for organisations across the surrounding areas. Language requirements All first aid training and assessment is delivered in English. Learners must be able to: • Understand spoken English at a level that allows them to follow instruction and safety guidance • Communicate effectively in English during practical activities and assessment • Read and complete written or verbal assessments where required During the course, learners will be introduced to new first aid terminology and concepts. A reasonable standard of English is therefore essential to safely participate and to demonstrate competence. This reflects the recommendations set out in Qualsafe Awards qualification specifications for regulated first aid qualifications. If a learner has concerns about language or communication, this should be discussed with us in advance so we can explore whether reasonable adjustments may be appropriate, without compromising assessment integrity or safety. Age and practical participation For most workplace first aid qualifications, including Emergency First Aid at Work and First Aid at Work, learners are normally expected to be at least 16 years of age on the first day of training. First aid courses involve practical elements such as: • CPR and defibrillator use • Casualty assessment • Placing a casualty into the recovery position Learners should be physically able to take part safely. If there are any medical conditions or accessibility needs, we encourage learners or employers to contact us before booking so we can discuss support options. No previous qualifications needed There are no formal entry qualifications required for initial first aid courses, including: • Emergency First Aid at Work • First Aid at Work • Paediatric First Aid Requalification courses do require learners to hold a valid or recently expired certificate for the relevant qualification.

Yes. Learners are normally required to bring valid photo identification to attend a regulated first aid course. This is an awarding organisation requirement and forms part of the learner identity verification process for Qualsafe Awards regulated qualifications. The requirement applies to both centre based courses and in company training. Acceptable forms of photo ID Learners should bring one form of valid photo identification, such as: • A passport • A UK driving licence • Another official photo ID The name on the photo ID must match the name used at the point of booking. What if a learner cannot provide photo ID? If a learner does not have suitable photo identification, this must be discussed with us in advance of the course. In some circumstances, alternative identity verification methods may be considered in line with Qualsafe Awards guidance, but this cannot be guaranteed and may affect certification. Why photo ID is required Photo identification helps ensure: • The correct learner is assessed and certificated • The integrity and security of regulated qualifications • Compliance with awarding organisation audit requirements If you are unsure whether your ID is suitable, or if you have any concerns before attending, please contact us in advance so we can advise.

All of our first aid courses require active participation. Training is practical and involves working closely with fellow learners and, on some courses, trained role play actors to support realistic learning. What to bring • A notepad and a black pen. Bringing a spare pen is recommended. • Lunch and any personal drinks, if you would like more than the tea and coffee we provide. • Any joining instructions sent to you by us or your employer. All specialist first aid training equipment will be provided. What to wear First aid training includes practical skills delivered at floor level. You should be prepared to spend time kneeling and lying on the floor while practising casualty care, CPR, and emergency scenarios. Please ensure you: • Wear comfortable clothing suitable for kneeling, bending, and working on the floor • Choose clothing that maintains dignity and modesty when practising in groups • Wear safe and suitable footwear for indoor practical activity Realistic training scenarios Some modules cover serious injuries and catastrophic bleeding and may be messy and highly realistic. Certain courses also use make up to simulate injuries. We therefore recommend wearing clothes that you are comfortable wearing during this type of practical training. Before you attend Please check your joining instructions carefully before the course, as these may include additional course specific information. Our aim is to create a professional, supportive training environment where learners feel comfortable and confident to fully engage in their first aid training, whether attending at our centre or through workplace training delivered on site. If you have any concerns or questions before attending, please contact us in advance and we will be happy to advise.

You do not need to be highly fit or athletic to attend a first aid course. However, a basic level of physical fitness is required, as first aid training is practical and hands on and learners must be able to demonstrate key life saving skills. Physical requirements During the course, you should be able to: • Get down to and up from the floor safely • Kneel on the floor and perform CPR for at least two minutes • Take part in practical activities such as casualty assessment, recovery position, and emergency procedures These activities reflect the physical demands of real life first aid situations. Why this matters Certification is based on the ability to demonstrate competence in essential first aid skills. Ultimately, the key question is whether you could reasonably manage in a real life emergency scenario if someone required immediate help. Reasonable adjustments We are committed to inclusive training. Reasonable adjustments may be available, depending on individual circumstances, provided they do not compromise safety, learning outcomes, or the integrity of assessment. If you have a medical condition, injury, or disability that may affect your ability to participate, please let us know in advance of the course so we can discuss suitable support in line with our Access to Assessment Policy. Our approach Our aim is to deliver first aid training that is realistic, supportive, and confidence building, ensuring learners are prepared to act when it matters most. If you are unsure whether a course is right for you, we encourage you to contact us before booking so we can help you make an informed decision.

All of our first aid training courses and assessments are delivered in English. Language expectations Learners must have a sufficient level of spoken and written English to: • Follow instructions and safety briefings • Take part in practical training and discussions • Complete assessments and demonstrate competence This requirement reflects the expectations set out in Qualsafe Awards qualification specifications for regulated first aid qualifications. Use of a bilingual dictionary If English is not your first language: • You may bring and use a hard copy bilingual dictionary during the course and assessment • Dictionaries must not contain handwritten notes or additional guidance Please note: • Test papers are provided in English only • A bilingual dictionary may be used alongside spoken or multiple choice assessments, where appropriate Electronic dictionaries, translation apps, or mobile phones are not permitted during assessment, as this could compromise assessment integrity. Why this matters First aid relies heavily on clear communication, especially in emergencies. Learners must be able to understand instructions and explain actions accurately in English to ensure safe and effective first aid practice. Support and reasonable adjustments If you are concerned about language requirements, we encourage you to contact us before booking. In line with Qualsafe guidance and our Access to Assessment Policy, we can discuss whether reasonable adjustments may be appropriate, provided they do not affect the validity, reliability, or safety of the qualification. Our aim is to ensure first aid training remains accessible, fair, and realistic, while maintaining the standards required for regulated certification. If you are unsure whether a course is suitable for you, please contact us in advance and we will be happy to advise.

Most of our full day first aid training courses run from 09:30 to 17:00, with regular breaks throughout the day. Course length and timings • Full day courses typically run from 09:30 to 17:00 • Shorter courses and community sessions may run for a shorter duration and follow different timings • In company training can often be scheduled to suit the operational needs of the organisation, particularly for full day or multi day bookings Joining instructions The exact start and finish times for your course will always be confirmed in your joining instructions, which should be checked carefully before attending. Our approach We aim to deliver first aid training that is practical, accessible, and fits around real world working environments, while still meeting awarding organisation requirements and course learning outcomes. If you are booking training for a team or have specific timing requirements, please contact us to discuss available options.

Before attending your course, you will receive joining instructions by email. These should be read carefully, as they contain important information about your training. Joining instructions and preparation Your joining instructions may include: • Practical details such as course timings, location, and what to bring • Short forms or declarations that must be completed before or during the course • Pre reading or course content to review in advance Completing any required preparation helps ensure you are ready to fully participate in the training. Blended learning courses For blended learning first aid courses, learners are required to complete e Learning before attending the practical training day. Please note: • Completion of the e Learning is mandatory • Learners who have not completed the required e Learning will not be able to continue with the practical assessment • This requirement is in place to ensure learning outcomes are met and to maintain awarding organisation compliance If you have any questions about paperwork, preparation, or e Learning access, please contact us as soon as possible so we can assist in advance of your course date.

We usually train groups of up to 12 learners per trainer. This group size allows us to maintain high quality instruction, effective supervision, and plenty of hands on practice for each learner. Larger group bookings For organisations booking training for larger teams, larger groups can be accommodated by providing additional trainers. This ensures learner to trainer ratios remain appropriate and that awarding organisation requirements are met. Our approach Managing group sizes carefully helps us deliver: • Safe and effective practical training • Individual feedback and support • A positive learning experience for every learner If you are booking training for a team and would like to discuss group sizes or multiple trainers, please contact us and we will be happy to advise.