In late 2020 I was lucky enough to attend a two-day Activity First Aid training course in which I was taught how to administer first aid such as giving CPR and knowing what to do if someone is bleeding or choking. The course allowed me to gain the right skills and pass the appropriate tests to successfully receive my first aid qualification. I found the two days to be a real eye opener, and highlighted just why everyone should attend first aid sessions. In this article I will explain what the course entailed and why I believe it should be a mandatory qualification.

The course I attended was tutored by Pearl, and was carefully planned out with a mixture of theory, practical sessions and assessments. It compiled to Covid safe protocol and we were also issued personal protection packs consisting of face shields, gloves, dressings and bandages. Pearl explained to me that teaching first aid was really important to her because, “What you learn on this course, can not only help save peoples life, but also provides you with invaluable knowledge that will last a lifetime. There is no substitute for this type of training.”

During the two-day course we covered a wide variety of topics targeting what to do in a sport and activity setting specifically, and how to do deal with everyday medical needs as well. With the help of videos and talks, we were able to get an in-depth idea of what to do in these situations. For example, with the help of video demonstration, we were able to see first-hand the reality of seizures and how we could help as first aiders. We also explored more common medical issues such as asthma attacks and head injuries and how we should respond when faced with these situations.

The first day involved theory and practical work, with much more of an emphasis on practical elements. A fascinating section was using manikins, in which we learnt how to administer CPR correctly and perform rescue breaths. The manikins were linked to an app in which the instructor could see if we were performing CPR effectively. Pearl told me that “Covid has provided a challenge and using the manikins means that the task takes longer than usual. We not only have to wipe them down but also change the lungs after every use. I am really happy that we can still allow learners to use them, as this training is essential and helps get a real feel of what to expect in an actual situation.”

The second day started with mostly theory work, which involved going through a mix of PowerPoints and kahoots. The day also entailed interactive activities, such as role-plays with partners. These were performed in pairs, with each if us having to pick out scenarios and use the skills we had learnt and developed to help us act it out effectively. For example, a scenario given was someone having fallen off a ladder and the partner then had to use the knowledge they had learnt and suitably show what needed to be done. I asked a member of the class, Agata what she thought about the role-plays and she said, “The role-plays to me were very beneficial as I got to pretend I was in a real-life situation and really put my skills into practice.”

Although we were continually assessed throughout the course, another key feature of both days was assessment through verbal questions, this bit really let us know how much we had learnt and allowed Pearl to determine whether we had consolidated our learning and whether we were up to the correct standard to pass.

Overall, the first aid course provided invaluable information to both me and the rest of the participants. I asked another learner, Heidi, what she thought of the course. She enthused, “I have loved this course, the tutor has been great and I have learnt so much!” So, in conclusion to anyone who is thinking about gaining their first aid qualification, just do it! First aid equips you with the know-how that can play an important part in an emergency situation and help save a casualty’s life, but most importantly will give you invaluable skills and abilities that will last you a lifetime.