Blended First Aid at Work Training That Strengthened Skills and Teamwork
In January 2026, First Aid and Safety Training delivered a Level 3 First Aid at Work (FAW) course using a blended learning format for Groundwork South and North Tyneside. The practical elements were completed on 5th and 7th January 2026 at Marsden Road Community Centre, offering a familiar and accessible training space for staff working across South Tyneside.
The course brought together 8 learners from different areas of the organisation, including supervisory staff, lone workers, archaeology teams, outdoor and green experience leaders, front-of-house roles, and management. Ages ranged from early 20s to learners in their 60s, creating a diverse and well-balanced group.
More Than Compliance: Understanding Why First Aid Matters
While the primary aim was to achieve First Aid at Work compliance, the course quickly became much more than a qualification. Some learners were renewing existing certificates, while others were completing their first formal first aid qualification and understandably felt nervous at the start.
As the practical sessions progressed, group discussions revealed just how relevant first aid training was to the team’s real working lives. Learners shared previous experiences, including:
- A team member living with Type 1 diabetes
- A learner who had previously dealt with serious burn injuries
- A real incident where the Air Ambulance had been called to assist a casualty
Many were surprised by how many serious incidents had already been encountered across the team. These shared experiences helped learners understand not only the importance of first aid, but how often skills can be needed in both work and everyday life.
Practical, Scenario-Based Learning
The blended learning model allowed learners to complete theory online before attending face-to-face sessions focused on hands-on practice and realistic scenarios.
Practical skills included:
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) use
- Managing the unconscious casualty
- Choking emergencies
- Bleeding, wounds, and cuts
- Fractures and soft tissue injuries
Scenario-based learning and discussion also covered:
- Head injuries
- Anaphylaxis
- Diabetes emergencies
- Electric shock
- Falls from height
- Spinal injuries
By linking these topics directly to learners’ own experiences, the training helped turn theory into practical confidence.
Team Building Through Shared Learning
An unexpected but valuable outcome of the course was the team-building effect. Staff who did not normally work together had the opportunity to:
- Learn about each other’s roles and responsibilities
- Understand the different risks faced across the organisation
- Share real-life experiences in a supportive environment
This mix of backgrounds and experiences encouraged open discussion and mutual support, reinforcing that first aid is everyone’s responsibility, regardless of job role.
Outcomes and Learner Feedback
All learners successfully passed both theory and practical assessments, leaving the course confident in their ability to respond to workplace emergencies.
Feedback highlighted the engaging delivery style and the positive learning environment:
“It was fun and enjoyable. It was made fun which I think makes the learning side more enjoyable.” – John
“Informative, relaxed setting and great experience.” – Clare
“Super fun and informative – put the online theory into context, overall paced well.” – Lucy
“Adam and Helen were both great! Kept the course engaging and well-paced and I think we all learned a lot.” – Ellie
“Great course, knowledgeable and friendly trainers. Would highly recommend.” – Kate
Helping Businesses Choose the Right First Aid Training
This course shows how Level 3 First Aid at Work training can deliver far more than a certificate. When learners are encouraged to share experiences and practise together, training becomes relevant, memorable, and confidence-building.
If you are unsure what first aid training your business needs, we are currently developing a free booklet titled:
“What First Aid Training Do I Need For My Business?”
The guide will help employers understand legal requirements, risk-based decisions, and the differences between Emergency First Aid at Work, First Aid at Work, and Paediatric First Aid.
Looking for First Aid Training in the North East?
First Aid and Safety Training deliver on-site first aid training and monthly open courses across the region. Get in touch to discuss the right option for your team.
