The qualification is available to learners aged 14 or over but a learner is unable to act as a First Aider in the workplace until they reach the age of 16. Due to the practical nature of the first aid assessment there are physical demands and learners must be able to demonstrate their skills as in a real-life situation. An example of this would be to demonstrate CPR on a manikin at floor level. It is recommended that learners should hold a minimum of Level 1 in literacy or equivalent to undertake this qualification. It may be possible to allocate a reasonable adjustment to a learner who has a disability, medical condition or learning need; learners should contact their training provider to discuss. Any reasonable adjustments granted must be in line with the FAA Reasonable Adjustments Policy.

The qualification is assessed through practical demonstration, oral questioning and written assessment. A learner must successfully pass both the written and practical assessments to achieve the qualification. There is no grading of the assessment; learners pass or are referred. The learner must satisfactorily complete each scenario to successfully pass the practical assessment examples of scenarios include:

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the safe use of an Automated External Defibrillator
• Choking
• Major bleeding and shock
• Major seizure
• Minor injuries

A Workbook is completed throughout the course by a learner. Questions will be asked covering the theoretical assessment criteria to ensure that the learner has gained the required knowledge. Learners will need to successfully answer all questions contained in the Workbook.

On completion of the Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid, learners can undertake an additional module to complete the FAA LEVEL 3 AWARD IN FIRST AID AT WORK qualification.

The qualification is valid for three years from the date of achievement. It is strongly recommended by the Health and Safety Executive that the learner attends annual refresher training.