Since 2020, we’ve been on a journey to make training more flexible, impactful, and accessible – especially for those working in busy education and childcare settings. Our blended training model—2 hours of Zoom training, 4 hours of self-guided learning, and 6 hours face-to-face – has been met with a lot of positive feedback. In line with HSE Guidance, all assessment is face to face.
But we also listen closely to the practical realities of our clients. Many are school staff, childminders, and nursery workers, and finding time to release staff for two full days of training can be a real challenge. That’s where the next phase of our development came in.
Introducing Our Bespoke PFA Course: Flexible, Accessible, Effective
In response to these needs, we developed a new Paediatric First Aid (PFA) course that blends e-learning with face-to-face practical training. The idea was to create something that retains the high-quality learning outcomes of our previous format but offers greater flexibility and meets a wider range of learning styles.
Learners can now access six hours of high-quality, self-paced e-learning before attending their in-person practical session. This format gives them time to reflect, revisit material, and approach the face-to-face component feeling informed and confident.
Different Learners, Different Styles
The beauty of this blended approach is that it meets people where they’re at:
- Visual learners appreciate the mix of videos and graphics.
- Reflective learners benefit from being able to pause, think, and re-engage in their own time.
- Practical learners thrive in the hands-on face-to-face component.
- And for busy professionals, the ability to log in and out as needed is invaluable.
As one learner shared: “I found it easier to understand and retain the information. It was a lot easier being able to access it when I wanted.”
Another told us the course had: “Really good use of different styles and media…it’s not just watching videos—it makes you use what you’ve read.”
What Are People Saying?
We’ve been so pleased with the response so far:
“The course was really well informed.”
“Very friendly and informative trainer with very relevant knowledge.”
“We do these [courses] every three years and this is one of the best ones we’ve done.”
“E-learning very easy to follow and navigate… more flexible for childminders.”
“I learnt everything I needed to know and would be confident performing first aid.”
Of the 27 learners who completed our online module, 25 gave positive feedback, and even those with suggestions still praised the structure and content.
And Yes, We Know There’s Always Room to Grow
We’re already acting on feedback and looking at improvements like downloadable resources, wider device testing, and quick access IT support.
So… Is It Really Working?
From what learners have told us so far, it seems we’re heading in the right direction—and we’re really encouraged by that.
Reflecting on the feedback so far highlights how much can be achieved when we take the time to listen, evolve, and respond to what learners really need. The updated PFA course has shown that training can be flexible and engaging, without compromising on effectiveness.
We’re excited to keep building on this success—and helping even more professionals feel confident and equipped to deliver first aid when it matters most.