Advice to Training Providers on the use of Blended Learning in First Aid Training

Some Changes to Blended Learning (November 2020)

You will be aware that it has been acceptable to offer Blended Learning for Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW), First Aid at Work FAW) and Paediatric First Aid (PFA) since 2015 as discussed within the First Aid Quality Partnership (which includes HSE).

The breakdown of distance learning compared to class was historically two thirds classroom and one third distance learning for EFAW and FAW. PFA was half in classroom and half distance learning, Emergency Paediatric First Aid (EPFA) is not  acceptable as a Blended Course.

Further discussions were held in 2020 within the FAQP but no unanimous agreement was reached. However following feedback from our Advisory Panel, our Members, Employers and the trialling of these courses. It was agreed to allow more time on the distance learning part of the FAW and EFAW courses whereby it would be possible to have a MAXIMUM of two thirds distance and consequently one third classroom work (for FAW and EFAW courses only).

(Please click here to view the document with comprehensive information which was sent out to all FAIB members on 27^th November 2020).    

In relation to the above the following areas were considered:

• Ensure that blended learning is as effective as face to face learning
• Ensure that students know how to use the technology
• Ensure that the Training Provider has adequate means of supporting students
• Ensure that the Training Provider has a robust system to prevent identity fraud
• Ensure the Employer is aware that time is set aside during the working day to undertake any First Aid training they receive. (Regulation 13, Health & Safety Management Regulations 1999)

The FAIB Approach

Any FAIB Training Provider can produce their own Blended First Aid course (and advertise it commercially through FAIB) however it will be vetted and tested before being accepted.

FAIB also want to ensure that every Training Provider (irrespective of size) is able to offer a Blended First Aid course to their clients.

We are also aware of the high costs involved in creating your own Blended First Aid course (particularly for a small Training Provider), we are therefore (certainly in the short term) going to offer a number of FAIB Training Providers Blended First Aid courses (which have already been vetted by FAIB).

Finally please remember that Blended Learning is only an option and some Employers may still prefer a full classroom course. However during these time of great uncertainty other options should be available.

Below are the links to some FAIB vetted Blended First Aid course but others can be added to this list once they have been vetted by FAIB.

Click below for Blended FAW, EFAW and Paediatric First Aid courses: