When you book first aid training, you need to know it meets recognised standards, not just what “fits in a day”. We deliver first aid qualifications in line with the national First Aid Awarding Organisation Forum delivery standards used by Qualsafe Awards.
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Quality as standard

Minimum duration and course structure

For regulated first aid qualifications, there are clear rules on minimum contact hours, number of days, and how far you can spread the course. These apply to classroom‑based learning and exclude breaks.

Key points:

  • “Contact hours” means direct teaching and assessment time, not including breaks or admin.
  • Each training session must run for at least 2 hours to count towards the total.
  • There is a maximum time window (in weeks) to complete the qualification, although special circumstances can be considered.

If a provider is offering a shorter course, higher ratios, or compressing content outside these limits, it is unlikely to meet these recognised standards.

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A woman in a purple top practises the Heimlich manoeuvre on a training dummy in a classroom setting with chairs, a table, and a water dispenser visible in the background. - on localmedic

Class size and learner safety

Quality first aid training depends on how much practical time each learner gets. The maximum trainer to learner ratio for these regulated first aid qualifications is 1:12.

Keeping to this ratio means:

  • Everyone has time to practise skills like CPR and recovery position properly.
  • Assessment decisions are more reliable because the trainer can actually observe each learner.
  • You keep within the expectations of awarding bodies and the wider first aid industry.

We plan our courses, venues and equipment around these limits, not around squeezing in more people per course.

Certificate validity and refreshers

For all of the first aid qualifications listed above, certificates are valid for three years from the date the learner completes the final unit.

In addition:

  • Annual refresher training is strongly recommended between full requalification courses.
  • Requalification courses (for example FAW requal) have their own minimum hours and time limits, not just a shortened “top‑up” session.

We use these standards when advising you which course to choose and when to schedule requalification, so you can evidence that your first aid provision is current and in line with recognised guidance.

Qualification information

Qualification Min contact hours Min days Max weeks Min session length Certificate validity Annual refresher
First Aid at Work (FAW) 18 3 10 2 hours 3 years Yes
First Aid at Work Requal (FAWR) 12 2 7 2 hours 3 years Yes
Emergency First Aid at Work 6 N/A 4 2 hours 3 years Yes
Paediatric First Aid 12 2 7 2 hours 3 years Yes
Emergency Paediatric First Aid 6 N/A 4 2 hours 3 years Yes

Let's talk about what you need

We'd love to hear from you. Whether you have a specific event in mind or just want to chat about training options, we're here to help.
Call 24/7/365 – 033 33 44 32 00
Email hello@local-medic.co.uk