Qualifications and training

A first-aider must hold a valid certificate of competence, issued by an organisation whose training and qualifications are approved by the HSE.

A First Aid at Work certificate is only valid for three years. Employers should arrange refresher training and competence testing at least three months before certificates expire. If a certificate expires the individual will have to undertake another full course of training. The standard first-aid-at-work training does not include resuscitation procedures for children, but training organisations will often tailor courses to schools’ needs.

Schools should keep a record of first-aiders and their certification dates.

Source: Guidance on First Aid for Schools: A Good Practice Guide, Department for Education and Employment, 1996.

School emergency-management plan Health and safety in schools School security Educational visits First aid Assessment of first-aid needs Appointed person First-aider Qualifications and training Materials, equipment and facilities Hygiene and infection control Recording and reporting Informing staff Evacuation procedures Calling emergency services Counselling Media handling Communicating with parents	Qualifications and training A first-aider must hold a valid certificate of competence, issued by an organisation whose training and qualifications are approved by the HSE. A First Aid at Work certificate is only valid for three years. Employers should arrange refresher training and competence testing at least three months before certificates expire. If a certificate expires the individual will have to undertake another full course of training. The standard first-aid-at-work training does not include resuscitation procedures for children, but training organisations will often tailor courses to schools’ needs. Schools should keep a record of first-aiders and their certification dates. Source: Guidance on First Aid for Schools: A Good Practice Guide, Department for Education and Employment, 1996.
The advice contained on this site should not be taken as an authoritative interpretation of the law. That is a matter for the courts.