First aid courses are designed to provide people with the knowledge and skills to respond quickly, effectively, and safely in an emergency. In England, a range of different first aid courses are available that cater to various levels of experience and cover other aspects of first aid practice.
Training helps first-aiders update their skills, learn new techniques and develop confidence in their abilities.
Knowing which course to take depends on the role you are trained for and your experience level. Below, we explain the different types of first aid courses available in England.
First Aid Training Types And Levels
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) approves the course syllabuses for first aid qualifications in England. The HSE has three levels of awards, each covering different aspects of first aid. Plus, first aid training should be refreshed annually to stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and practices.
The different levels of HSE-approved first aid awards include:
Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW)
This course is a one-day course that enables learners to receive an understanding of basic first aid principles, allowing them to assist in a range of emergencies.
It is suitable for workplaces where the risk assessment confirms that no qualified first-aider is required, or it could be used as an Appointed Person role within larger organisations that employ more than five persons.
First Aid at Work (FAW)
This three-day accredited course is designed for those who want a more comprehensive understanding of first aid principles and techniques. Learners gain the skills and confidence to provide comprehensive first aid in various situations.
The HSE recommends that workplaces with more than five employees should have at least one employee trained in First Aid at Work.
Emergency Paediatric First Aid (EPFA)
This course is designed for those working with children, such as childcare providers, teaching staff, and other professionals working with children. Learners can provide essential first-aid assistance to infants and children in an emergency.
This course also covers scenarios related to asthma attacks, choking, febrile seizures, meningitis, severe allergic reactions and more.
Defibrillator Training (AED)
This course covers Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in emergency situations. Learners will gain an understanding of basic principles and techniques to be able to assess a casualty’s condition, recognise when a defibrillator is needed, and how to use it safely.
These qualifications are also available as refresher courses for those who have previously been trained in first aid. Refresher training enables learners to update their skills, refresh their knowledge base, and practice critical skills while keeping up-to-date with the latest best practices.
First Aid For School Teachers
This course has been developed to equip teachers with the latest knowledge and skills in providing basic first aid in a school setting. This course covers managing bleeding, burns, breaks and sprains and what to do when someone is unconscious or not breathing.
It also covers the actions that should be taken to discover an accident or injury, resuscitation techniques for adults and children, and how to administer medication safely.
CPR Training
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training is an integral part of first aid. This accredited CPR course covers the basics of CPR, such as the recovery position, chest compressions and rescue breaths.
It also gives learners a greater understanding of when CPR should be used and how to perform it correctly.
Medical Gases Training
This course is suited to healthcare professionals and first-aiders who work in areas such as nursing homes, care homes and hospitals. It covers the use of medical gases, including oxygen, nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide, how they should be stored and used safely, plus how to administer them correctly.
Moving & Handling Course
This is a course for those who need to move and handle patients in their work environment. It covers topics such as the correct use of equipment, how to move and turn patients safely, plus the safe lifting and moving of objects.
The training course is highly recommended for those needing mechanical hoists, wheelchairs and other moving and handling equipment.
These are just some first-aid courses available to qualify for first aid. Each course is designed to equip learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond safely to emergency situations. You can become an invaluable asset in any workplace or emergency situation with the right training.
What’s An Appointed Person And A First Aider?
An appointed person is someone who has received basic first aid training but isn’t qualified to provide comprehensive first aid. They may be called upon for emergency help and ensure the area is safe until a qualified First Aider arrives.
A First Aider has completed an in-depth course that includes extensive training on assessing a casualty, identifying their condition and administering the appropriate treatment and care.
First Aiders will also have a full understanding of health and safety regulations and principles relating to first aid at work.
They should have the knowledge, skills and confidence to be able to respond appropriately in a variety of emergency scenarios.
By completing an appropriate first aid course, you can become a confident First Aider who is ready and prepared for whatever life throws your way.
Final Words
Having knowledge and understanding of first aid is invaluable when it comes to emergency situations. You can make a difference when it matters most with the right training.
Many types of first aid courses are available in England that will enable you to become an appointed person or qualified First Aider. Each course has been designed to equip learners with the skills needed to respond to emergency situations safely.
With proper training, you can feel confident responding appropriately in any emergency.
