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.

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.