Becoming a first aid trainer is one of the most accessible routes into a rewarding career in health and safety training. The demand for qualified first aid trainers consistently outstrips supply, and the combination of relatively low qualification costs, flexible working arrangements, and strong day rates makes it an attractive option for experienced first aiders, healthcare professionals, and health and safety practitioners.
Step 1: Hold a Current First Aid Qualification
Before you can train to become a first aid trainer, you must hold a current first aid qualification at the appropriate level. For most trainer qualifications, this means holding a current First Aid at Work (FAW) certificate or equivalent. Some trainer courses will accept a current Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate for trainers who intend to deliver EFAW courses only.
Step 2: Choose Your Trainer Qualification
There are two main routes to becoming a qualified first aid trainer in the UK:
CERTA Accredited First Aid Trainer Course
CERTA (Compliance, Education, Regulation, Training and Accreditation) is one of the UK's leading awarding bodies for first aid trainer qualifications. A CERTA First Aid Trainer course typically runs over three days and covers training design, delivery techniques, assessment methods, and the specific content of first aid courses. CERTA qualifications are widely recognised by employers and awarding bodies across the UK and Ireland.
QQI Level 6 Train the Trainer (Ireland)
For trainers operating in Ireland or wishing to deliver QQI-accredited first aid courses, the QQI Level 6 Train the Trainer Award (6N3325) is the appropriate qualification. This award is accredited by Quality and Qualifications Ireland and is recognised across all sectors in Ireland.
Step 3: Register with an Awarding Body
Once qualified, you will need to register with an awarding body to deliver accredited first aid courses. The main awarding bodies for first aid in the UK include Qualsafe Awards, ProQual, TQUK, and Highfield. Each has its own registration requirements, annual fees, and quality assurance processes.
Step 4: Build Your Client Base
Most new first aid trainers begin by delivering courses for their employer or through an established training company before building their own client base. Day rates for freelance first aid trainers typically range from £250 to £500 per day, depending on location and the type of course delivered.
Full details of available first aid trainer courses are available at AbertayTraining.co.uk and FirstAidTrainer.com.