first aid AND PRE-HOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE

first aid AND PRE-HOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE

Course overview

The PHECC First Aid Response (FAR) Instructor Course prepares learners to deliver nationally recognised First Aid Response training in workplaces, communities, and training centres throughout Ireland.

Delivered nationwide by First Aid Coaching, this structured two-day programme develops instructional competence, adult learning techniques, and professional delivery skills aligned with PHECC requirements.

The course is available in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and Galway, with additional nationwide availability.

Who this course is for

  • Individuals seeking to become a PHECC First Aid Response Instructor
  • Qualified responders wishing to train others in First Aid Response
  • Professionals intending to deliver certified FAR training nationwide

Participants must meet all PHECC eligibility requirements prior to enrolment.

Entry criteria

  • Minimum age: 18 years
  • Valid, in-date First Aid Response (FAR) certificate or evidence of PHECC practitioner registration
  • Valid, in-date CFR Instructor certificate
  • Evidence of eligibility must be submitted before course commencement.

Course duration

  • The initial FAR Instructor Course is delivered over 2 days.
  • The programme includes instruction in adult learning principles, instructional techniques, and preparation for supervised teaching practice.
  • Learners should note that the period between the initial course and the final Instructor Assessment (F3) may extend over several months to allow completion of required supervised teaching elements.

Outstanding medical expertise, delivered in a clear and engaging way

The knowledge of the medical world is simply outstanding and breathtaking, but I was most impressed with the way they taught the class. It was a breath of fresh air. Anyone can read off PowerPoint, but First Aid Coaching used their own technique which was far more interesting and easier to take in. I can highly recommend First Aid Coaching.

John Dorgan

A first aid course that redefines learning

Our memory favours fun and stimulating experiences. If someone were to sit down and try to design a perfect first aid course, they would fall short of the delivery through Real First Aid. I have been on a few first aid courses — this not only changed my perception of what first aid is about, but altered my understanding of how to teach effectively.

Mary Power

A breath of fresh air in training

Having done one before that was up for renewal (with a different provider), I hadn’t expected to learn much new. How wrong was I. The thoroughly in-depth knowledge combined with creative delivery meant the course was a breath of fresh air, and although the topics were familiar, it felt completely new. What really stood out was that they welcomed questions specific to our individual working environments, which I have found invaluable and definitely made me a better leader.

Adam Collins

First aid training that finally sticks

I have attended several first aid courses over the years and, like most people, I find it increasingly difficult to stay awake, let alone take in the important information. This course was great. It kept you on the edge of your seat and wide awake. I truly believe that I have learnt first aid for the first time.

Niall Horgan

Calm, reassuring support when it mattered

I am so thankful for attending the course today. I was very anxious with all that had happened during the week, and I have to say Danny made me feel very comfortable, as I am sure he did the other girls in attendance. Thank you so much, and I look forward to attending another course with you in the near future. I would highly recommend First Aid Coaching.

First Aider, Cork

Engaging, practical and thoroughly enjoyed

I just wanted to sincerely thank both instructors, Karen and Mark, on a fantastic day. The girls thoroughly enjoyed the first aid course, and that is down to both Mark and Karen for making it so engaging and practical.

Kate, St Angela's

A great pace and a supportive atmosphere

Excellent pace of session, with lots of opportunity to practice, relevant feedback and a very supportive atmosphere.

Helena, HSE Staff BLS Candidate

The best in the country

PJ was brilliant last night — the three of us enjoyed it and learned from it! You were right, PJ is the best in the country!

Karina, Cork

Supervised teaching practice and assessment

  • To qualify as a PHECC First Aid Response Instructor, learners must complete supervised teaching practice following the initial course.
  • Participants must assist on two FAR courses and complete a final assessed delivery monitored by First Aid Coaching.
  • While guidance and support are provided, organising supervised teaching practice remains the learner’s responsibility.
  • The duration of supervised teaching may be extended until all learning outcomes are achieved.

What you will learn

  • Instructional methods and adult learning principles
  • Structured delivery of FAR theory and practical modules
  • Managing FAR skills assessments
  • Facilitating supervised practical sessions
  • Instructor responsibilities and professional standards

Assessment components include:

  • Delivery of theory and practical FAR modules
  • Completion of FAR skills assessments
  • Short Answer Questionnaire (SAQ) – minimum pass mark 80%
  • Completion of supervised teaching practice

Equipment requirements

  • For final assessment, instructors must provide their own training equipment.
  • If assistance is required in sourcing equipment, learners should contact First Aid Coaching in advance.
  • Instructor-to-learner ratio: 1:6
    Equipment-to-learner ratio: 1:3 (manikins and AED trainers)

Completing supervised practice with another provider

If supervised practice is completed with another provider, the following must be submitted:

  • Dates of course completion
  • Course location
  • Instructor’s name and copy of their PHECC Instructor Certificate

Remediation and support

Where required, First Aid Coaching provides instructor support and remediation nationwide to ensure learners meet all required standards.

Recertification

FAR Instructor certification is valid for 2 years. Recertification must be completed prior to expiry. A limited grace period may be considered in exceptional circumstances.

Why choose First Aid Coaching

  • Nationwide delivery across Ireland
  • PHECC-aligned instructor training
  • Structured pathway from course to full certification
  • Ongoing instructor support and remediation
  • Experienced faculty with frontline emergency backgrounds
  • Professional, compliance-focused delivery standards

All instructor programmes are delivered to consistent national standards, ensuring graduates are prepared to teach competently and confidently.

Certification and standards

Upon successful completion of the 2-day FAR Instructor Course, supervised teaching practice, and final assessment, participants are certified as PHECC First Aid Response Instructors, authorized to deliver FAR training nationwide.

Certification and standards

Upon successful completion of the 2-day FAR Instructor Course, supervised teaching practice, and final assessment, participants are certified as PHECC First Aid Response Instructors, authorized to deliver FAR training nationwide.