Advanced Phlebotomy and Cannulation: two-day course in Manchester

Day 1 (Tuesday) covers venepuncture and cannulation from the start. Day 2 (Wednesday) adds winged needles and syringe collection, blood cultures, difficult veins, more cannulation practice, optional supervised practice and an observed assessment.

Booking options

• 2-day course (Tuesday and Wednesday), 12 CPD hours
• Day 2 only (Wednesday), 6 CPD hours: for people who have done our 1-day venepuncture and cannulation course in the last 2 years, or who already take blood and cannulate at work
• 3-day bundle: this course plus Urinary Catheterisation on the Thursday, 18 CPD hours. We add you to the Thursday course.

Times

09:00 to 17:00 each day, with a sandwich lunch and refreshments.

Optional supervised practice

On day 2 you can practise taking blood from a fellow learner who has volunteered, under direct supervision by a trainer. Taking part is entirely your choice and does not affect your certificate. Volunteers sign a consent form and complete a short health check. Cannulation practice stays on training arms.

What you receive

Certificate of attendance with CPD hours and a workplace competency record for your employer to complete. Your employer signs you off on patients before you practise on your own. We recommend a refresher every 2 years.

Venue: First Floor, 308 Moseley Road, Levenshulme, Manchester M19 2LH.

Basic Surgical Skills (BSS) Course

Royal College of Surgeons of England | Two-day practical course

Learn the safe, standard surgical techniques every trainee is expected to master, taught by experienced surgical faculty in small groups.

PLAB Guide Training Centre is a Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England) approved centre for the official Basic Surgical Skills (BSS) course.

Who should attend

• Foundation doctors (FY1–FY3) planning a surgical career
• Core surgical trainees (CT1–CT2)
• Doctors preparing for MRCS Part B or core surgical training interviews
• Surgical Care Practitioners and Surgical First Assistants

What you will practise

• Scrubbing, gowning and gloving, and theatre safety
• Instrument and tissue handling
• Hand and instrument knots
• Interrupted, mattress and continuous sutures
• Local anaesthetic, skin lesion excision and wound closure
• Principles of safe laparoscopic surgery

Course format

RCS England pre-course e-learning, then two face-to-face days, 9am to 5pm. 12 CPD points.

Before you book

You need an RCS England contact number. If you do not have one, register free on the RCS England website first.

Fee: £520 + VAT.

Full-Day Face-to-Face Training at PLAB Guide Training Centre

Develop the knowledge, understanding and practical skills needed to provide safer, more person-centred care for autistic people and people with a learning disability.

The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism – Tier 2 is the government’s preferred and recommended training package for health and social care staff whose roles involve direct treatment, care or support, or who work with a higher degree of professional autonomy. GOV.UK

Tier 2 combines mandatory online learning with a full-day, face-to-face training session. The programme goes beyond general awareness and helps participants apply learning to real health and social care situations, including communication, reasonable adjustments, diagnostic overshadowing, decision-making and person-centred support. GOV.UK

PLAB Guide Training Centre provides Tier 2 training in a supportive, interactive environment with meaningful involvement from Experts with Lived Experience, ensuring that the perspectives of autistic people and people with a learning disability remain central to the training.

Why Is Oliver McGowan Training Important?

The Health and Care Act 2022 introduced a statutory requirement that CQC-registered health and social care providers in England ensure their staff receive training on learning disability and autism that is appropriate to their role. This requirement has applied since 1 July 2022. GOV.UK

The final Oliver McGowan Code of Practice, which came into force in September 2025, sets standards for the content and delivery of this training. It identifies the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training as the government’s preferred and recommended package for helping registered providers meet these requirements. GOV.UK

The training was developed following the death of Oliver McGowan, whose experience highlighted the potentially serious consequences when health and social care professionals do not adequately understand learning disability, autism, communication needs and reasonable adjustments.

Who Should Complete Tier 2?

Tier 2 is intended for staff who provide direct treatment, care or support to autistic people or people with a learning disability, as well as professionals who exercise a higher degree of autonomy within health and social care services. GOV.UK

This may include:

• Doctors
• Nurses
• Allied healthcare professionals
• Paramedics
• Healthcare assistants
• Support workers
• Care assistants
• Registered managers
• Team leaders
• Students and trainees
• Social care professionals
• Educators working within relevant health and care settings
• Staff carrying out capacity or best-interest assessments
• Professionals involved in Mental Health Act assessments
• Staff responsible for planning or coordinating care
• Other professionals who make decisions affecting people with learning disabilities or autistic people

The appropriate tier should always reflect the individual’s role and responsibilities.

Tier 1 or Tier 2 – Which Do I Need?

Tier 1 is intended primarily for staff who require general awareness of learning disability and autism.

Tier 2 is intended for staff who:

• Provide direct treatment, care or support
• Make decisions affecting patient or service-user care
• Need to make reasonable adjustments
• Exercise professional autonomy
• Assess capacity or best interests
• Manage or supervise care
• Work directly with autistic people or people with a learning disability

Government guidance states that Tier 2 is suitable for staff with direct care responsibilities and other professionals working with a higher degree of autonomy. GOV.UK

Course Structure

The complete Tier 2 package has two components.

Part 1 – Mandatory E-Learning

Before attending the face-to-face training, learners must complete the official Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training e-learning module through NHS England’s e-Learning for Healthcare platform.

This online component provides the foundation knowledge required before progressing to the Tier 2 classroom session.

The current Code of Practice specifies a compulsory e-learning component before the live training. GOV.UK

Part 2 – Full-Day Face-to-Face Tier 2 Training

After completing the e-learning, learners attend a one-day, in-person Tier 2 workshop.

The face-to-face component is interactive and focuses on applying knowledge to real practice rather than simply completing theoretical learning.

The Code of Practice specifies a minimum of one day of in-person training for staff with direct care responsibilities or higher levels of autonomy. GOV.UK

Experts with Lived Experience

A defining feature of Oliver McGowan training is that it is co-produced and co-delivered with people who have lived experience.

The Tier 2 face-to-face programme involves:

• A suitably trained facilitating trainer
• An Expert with Lived Experience of learning disability
• An Expert with Lived Experience of autism

This approach allows learners to hear directly from people whose experiences of health and social care services inform the training.

The Code of Practice specifically requires meaningful involvement of autistic people and people with a learning disability in live and interactive training. GOV.UK

What You Will Learn

During the Tier 2 course, learners develop a deeper understanding of:

• Learning disability
• Autism
• The differences between learning disability and autism
• Person-centred care
• Communication needs
• Reasonable adjustments
• Sensory differences
• Diagnostic overshadowing
• Health inequalities
• Accessible information
• Capacity and decision-making
• Best-interest decision-making
• Professional attitudes and assumptions
• Supporting autonomy and choice
• The impact of healthcare environments
• Appropriate escalation and advocacy
• How to apply learning within your own professional role

Understanding Learning Disability

Learners explore what learning disability means and how it may affect:

• Communication
• Understanding information
• Decision-making
• Access to healthcare
• Independence
• Daily living
• Experiences of health and care services

The course encourages professionals to recognise the individual rather than making assumptions based on a diagnosis.

Understanding Autism

The programme develops awareness of autism and the wide variation in how autistic people experience the world.

Topics include:

• Communication differences
• Sensory processing
• Anxiety
• Predictability and routine
• Different ways of expressing distress
• Environmental barriers
• Individual preferences
• The importance of avoiding stereotypes

The focus is on adapting care to the individual rather than expecting the individual to adapt to the service.

Reasonable Adjustments

Reasonable adjustments are a major part of delivering safe and equitable care.

Learners consider adjustments such as:

• Allowing additional consultation time
• Reducing unnecessary noise or sensory stimulation
• Providing accessible information
• Adjusting communication styles
• Allowing support from familiar carers where appropriate
• Preparing people in advance for procedures
• Making appointments more predictable
• Using visual communication aids
• Taking account of individual sensory needs

Participants are encouraged to consider what adjustments they can make within their own workplace.

Communication

The course explores how communication may need to be adapted for different individuals.

This may include:

• Using clear and direct language
• Allowing additional processing time
• Avoiding unnecessary jargon
• Checking understanding
• Using pictures or visual aids
• Working appropriately with family members and carers
• Recognising non-verbal communication
• Respecting an individual's preferred method of communication

Diagnostic Overshadowing

One of the important concepts covered within Tier 2 is diagnostic overshadowing.

This occurs when symptoms or behavioural changes are incorrectly attributed to a person’s learning disability or autism rather than investigating a possible physical or mental health problem.

Learners consider how diagnostic overshadowing can contribute to:

• Delayed diagnosis
• Missed deterioration
• Inappropriate treatment
• Poorer health outcomes
• Avoidable harm

The course encourages staff to approach new symptoms with appropriate clinical curiosity and avoid assumptions.

Health Inequalities

People with learning disabilities and autistic people can experience substantial barriers when accessing healthcare.

The programme encourages learners to consider:

• Communication barriers
• Difficulties accessing services
• Assumptions about quality of life
• Failure to provide reasonable adjustments
• Delayed recognition of illness
• Diagnostic overshadowing
• Fragmented care
• The importance of advocacy

The overall aim is to improve the safety, experience and quality of care provided.

Mental Capacity and Best Interests

For staff whose roles involve decision-making, the programme considers important principles around:

• Presumption of capacity
• Supporting individuals to make decisions
• Decision-specific capacity
• Accessible communication
• Best-interest decision-making
• Involving the person as fully as possible
• Appropriate involvement of family members, carers and professionals

Participants should continue to follow the Mental Capacity Act, professional guidance and their organisation’s local policies.

Hospital Passports and Accessible Information

Learners consider the value of tools such as:

• Hospital passports
• Communication passports
• Health action plans
• Easy-read information
• Individual care plans
• Reasonable-adjustment records

These resources can help staff understand how an individual communicates, what causes distress and what support they may require.

Applying Learning to Your Own Role

Tier 2 is not intended to be passive awareness training.

The current Code of Practice emphasises that staff should be able to explore how their learning applies to their own setting, responsibilities and day-to-day practice. GOV.UK

Throughout the day, learners are encouraged to consider:

• What would I do differently?
• Which barriers exist within my service?
• What reasonable adjustments could I make?
• How could my communication improve?
• Are assumptions influencing care?
• How can I involve the person more effectively?
• What changes can my team make after this training?

Completion Requirements

To complete the Tier 2 training package, learners must:

1. Complete the mandatory Oliver McGowan e-learning before attendance
2. Attend the full face-to-face Tier 2 training day
3. Participate appropriately in the interactive learning activities
4. Complete any required pre- and post-course evaluation or documentation

Learners who have not completed the required e-learning may not be eligible to participate in or complete the Tier 2 programme.

How Long Is the Training?

Online component: Mandatory e-learning completed before attendance
Face-to-face component: One full day

The face-to-face Tier 2 session is substantially more detailed than the shorter Tier 1 interactive session and is specifically designed for staff with direct care or higher-autonomy responsibilities. GOV.UK

Training Validity

Current NHS arrangements recognise Oliver McGowan learning disability and autism training on a three-year cycle within the statutory and mandatory training portability framework. Individual employers may nevertheless specify their own refresher or update requirements. NHS England

Why Complete Oliver McGowan Tier 2 Training?

This course can help healthcare and social care professionals:

• Meet relevant learning disability and autism training requirements
• Deliver more person-centred care
• Recognise and reduce diagnostic overshadowing
• Make appropriate reasonable adjustments
• Communicate more effectively
• Understand lived experience
• Challenge assumptions and stereotypes
• Reduce barriers to healthcare
• Improve patient and service-user experience
• Support safer clinical and care decisions

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is an approved provider of Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training, delivering Tier 2 training in Manchester for health and social care professionals and organisations.

Learners benefit from:

• Full-day face-to-face Tier 2 delivery
• Trained facilitating faculty
• Co-delivery with Experts with Lived Experience
• Interactive discussion and practical application
• A respectful and inclusive learning environment
• Training relevant to NHS, independent healthcare and social care
• Individual booking options
• Group and organisational bookings
• On-site training arrangements for employers
• A convenient Manchester training location
• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

Our aim is to ensure that learners leave not simply with greater awareness, but with practical ideas they can apply to improve the experience and safety of autistic people and people with learning disabilities.

Training for NHS, Healthcare and Social Care Organisations

We can provide Tier 2 training for organisations including:

• NHS organisations
• Independent healthcare providers
• GP and primary care organisations
• Care homes
• Domiciliary care providers
• Supported-living services
• Mental health services
• Community healthcare organisations
• Charities
• Social care providers
• Education and specialist-support services

Group and on-site training can be arranged according to organisational requirements and trainer availability.

Book Oliver McGowan Tier 2 Training in Manchester

Complete the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism – Tier 2 with PLAB Guide Training Centre.

Format: Mandatory e-learning + full-day face-to-face training
Suitable for: Health and social care staff providing direct treatment, care or support, and professionals with higher levels of autonomy
Location: Manchester
Delivery: Interactive, face-to-face and co-delivered with Experts with Lived Experience

Please complete the required Oliver McGowan e-learning before attending your Tier 2 face-to-face session.

The Health and Care Act requires CQC-registered providers to ensure staff receive learning disability and autism training appropriate to their role; the Oliver McGowan programme is the government’s preferred and recommended training package for supporting providers to meet that requirement. GOV.UK

5-Day Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Course at PLAB Guide Training Centre

Develop the knowledge, practical skills and confidence required to provide first-response emergency care in pre-hospital environments.

The Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF), commonly known as FREC 3, is a nationally regulated qualification designed for people who may be required to provide emergency care before the arrival of, or alongside, more advanced clinical support.

PLAB Guide Training Centre is approved to deliver this Qualsafe qualification in Manchester, providing an intensive five-day, face-to-face programme combining theoretical learning, practical skills and realistic emergency scenarios.

The current qualification carries 35 Guided Learning Hours, with a Total Qualification Time of 53 hours. Assessment includes multiple theory papers plus practical assessments and skills tests. (PHCAW)

Who Is FREC 3 For?

FREC 3 is suitable for people who work, or are looking to work, in roles where they may be expected to provide emergency care in a pre-hospital environment.

This may include:

• Event medical staff

• Community and emergency first responders

• Ambulance support staff

• Security personnel

• Close protection operatives

• Door supervisors with enhanced medical responsibilities

• Police and fire service personnel

• Search and rescue teams

• Outdoor and expedition staff

• Motorsport and sporting-event medical teams

• Military personnel

• Employees working in high-risk industries

• Healthcare professionals wanting stronger pre-hospital emergency-care skills

• Individuals considering progression within pre-hospital care

It can also be an excellent next step for learners who already hold conventional workplace first-aid qualifications and want to develop a substantially broader emergency-care skill set.

What Is FREC 3?

FREC 3 goes significantly beyond standard workplace first aid.

The qualification develops the learner's ability to assess and manage patients experiencing serious illness or injury before hospital arrival.

Candidates learn to approach emergencies systematically, identify immediate threats to life, provide appropriate interventions and monitor the patient while arranging further clinical assistance.

It forms part of Qualsafe's progressive pathway of pre-hospital care qualifications and is widely used by those developing careers in emergency response and event medicine.

What You Will Learn

The course develops knowledge and practical competence in areas such as:

• Scene safety and incident assessment

• Patient assessment

• Primary survey

• Secondary assessment

• Airway management

• Basic and intermediate airway techniques

• Oxygen administration

• Ventilation support

• Adult, child and infant CPR

• Automated external defibrillation

• Recognition and management of cardiac arrest

• Medical emergencies

• Trauma management

• Catastrophic bleeding

• Shock

• Head and spinal injuries

• Chest injuries

• Musculoskeletal injuries

• Burns

• Environmental emergencies

• Patient monitoring

• Vital-sign assessment

• Communication and handover

• Clinical decision-making

• Appropriate escalation of care

Scene Assessment and Patient Safety

Candidates learn how to approach an emergency without creating additional risk.

Training includes:

• Dynamic risk assessment

• Scene safety

• Mechanism of injury

• Number of casualties

• Calling for appropriate resources

• Use of personal protective equipment

• Prioritising immediate threats

The aim is to develop an organised approach before patient treatment begins.

Patient Assessment

Learners develop a structured method of assessing both medical and trauma patients.

This includes:

• Primary survey

• Identification of life-threatening problems

• Immediate interventions

• Reassessment

• Patient history

• Secondary assessment

• Vital signs

• Ongoing monitoring

Candidates learn to recognise deterioration and communicate their findings effectively to other healthcare professionals.

Airway Management

Airway management forms an important part of FREC 3.

Candidates may practise:

• Airway positioning

• Basic airway manoeuvres

• Suction principles

• Oropharyngeal airway use

• Nasopharyngeal airway considerations

• Bag-mask ventilation

• Oxygen administration

• Recognition of airway compromise

The emphasis is on maintaining oxygenation and ventilation within the responder's permitted scope of practice.

CPR and Defibrillation

Candidates practise resuscitation skills across different age groups, including:

• Adult CPR

• Child CPR

• Infant CPR

• AED operation

• Effective ventilation

• Team-based resuscitation

• Minimising interruptions to chest compressions

• Recognition of cardiac arrest

• Safe emergency response

Medical Emergencies

The programme prepares learners to recognise and manage a wide range of acute medical presentations.

Topics may include:

• Chest pain

• Suspected acute coronary syndrome

• Stroke

• Seizures

• Asthma

• Anaphylaxis

• Diabetes-related emergencies

• Reduced consciousness

• Breathing difficulties

• Poisoning

• Other time-critical medical conditions

The focus is on early recognition, appropriate first-response treatment and escalation.

Trauma Management

FREC 3 provides substantially more trauma training than standard first-aid qualifications.

Learners develop a structured approach to:

• Major trauma

• Catastrophic haemorrhage

• Head injury

• Spinal injury

• Chest trauma

• Limb injuries

• Fractures

• Wounds

• Burns

• Shock

Candidates are taught to identify priorities and manage immediate threats before moving to more detailed assessment.

Catastrophic Bleeding

Learners develop an understanding of severe haemorrhage and how rapidly it can become life-threatening.

Training may include:

• Recognition of catastrophic bleeding

• Direct pressure

• Appropriate wound management

• Haemorrhage-control equipment

• Recognition of shock

• Ongoing reassessment

• Rapid escalation

Oxygen and Ventilation

Candidates learn the principles of providing emergency oxygen and supporting ventilation within the scope of the qualification.

Training includes:

• Appropriate oxygen equipment

• Oxygen-delivery devices

• Safe cylinder handling

• Recognition of inadequate breathing

• Bag-mask ventilation

• Monitoring response to treatment

Patient Monitoring

FREC 3 develops a broader approach to monitoring than conventional first-aid courses.

Candidates may practise assessment of:

• Respiratory rate

• Pulse

• Level of consciousness

• Skin signs

• Oxygen saturation where appropriate

• Blood pressure

• Other clinical observations relevant to the situation

The course emphasises trends and reassessment rather than relying on a single observation.

Communication and Handover

Effective communication is essential in pre-hospital care.

Candidates learn how to:

• Communicate calmly with patients

• Obtain relevant history

• Reassure casualties

• Work with other responders

• Request additional resources

• Provide structured clinical handover

• Document relevant findings and treatment

Realistic Scenario-Based Training

FREC 3 is a highly practical qualification.

Candidates should expect to participate in realistic scenarios involving:

• Medical emergencies

• Trauma

• Cardiac arrest

• Deteriorating patients

• Multiple competing priorities

• Patient assessment

• Team communication

• Ongoing reassessment

The purpose of scenario-based training is to help learners apply knowledge under realistic pressure rather than simply memorising facts.

Course Duration

The qualification requires 35 Guided Learning Hours and is commonly delivered as a five-day face-to-face programme. Qualsafe's specification gives a Total Qualification Time of 53 hours. (PHCAW)

Candidates must attend the full programme and complete all required learning and assessments.

Assessment

FREC 3 is formally assessed.

The current Qualsafe qualification specification includes:

• 3 multiple-choice theory assessments

• 1 invigilated examination

• 6 practical assessments and skills tests

Candidates must successfully meet the required standards to achieve the qualification. (PHCAW)

Booking and attendance do not automatically guarantee successful completion.

Certification

Successful learners receive the:

Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF)

Qualification number: 603/6987/5. (Qualsafe Awards)

The qualification certificate is valid for three years. Qualsafe certification also recommends annual BLS refresher training during the certification period, with requalification required before expiry. (Qualsafe Awards)

Progression

FREC 3 can provide a foundation for further development within pre-hospital emergency care.

Depending on the learner's career plans and eligibility, this may include progression into higher-level pre-hospital care qualifications, emergency medical roles, event medicine or related healthcare training.

The qualification itself does not guarantee employment or entitlement to practise beyond an individual's role, competence and organisational governance arrangements.

Why Complete FREC 3?

FREC 3 may be particularly valuable for people who want to:

• Progress beyond standard first aid

• Develop practical pre-hospital emergency-care skills

• Work within event medical services

• Develop toward ambulance or emergency-response work

• Improve trauma-management skills

• Gain greater confidence managing seriously ill patients

• Develop a nationally regulated Level 3 qualification

• Build a foundation for further pre-hospital care training

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is a Qualsafe Approved Centre in Manchester, delivering regulated clinical, emergency-care and first-aid qualifications.

FREC 3 candidates benefit from:

• Qualsafe-regulated training

• Experienced emergency-care instructors

• Extensive practical skills teaching

• Realistic patient scenarios

• Resuscitation training equipment

• Trauma-management practice

• Small-group learning

• Structured instructor feedback

• A professional training environment

• Convenient Manchester location

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Access by road and public transport

Our focus is on helping learners develop a systematic approach to emergency care rather than simply teaching them how to pass the assessments.

Important Course Requirements

Candidates should be prepared for an intensive practical programme.

Learners will be expected to:

• Attend all five days

• Participate fully in practical exercises

• Perform CPR and other floor-level activities

• Complete all required assessments

• Demonstrate safe professional behaviour

• Meet any current Qualsafe entry requirements

• Provide accurate information for qualification registration

Candidates should inform us before the course if they require reasonable adjustments.

Book FREC 3 in Manchester

Take the next step beyond conventional first aid with the Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF).

Book your FREC 3 course at PLAB Guide Training Centre in Manchester and develop the practical knowledge and skills required to respond to a broad range of pre-hospital medical and trauma emergencies.

Qualification: Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF)
Common name: FREC 3
Qualification number: 603/6987/5
Course duration: 5 days / 35 Guided Learning Hours
Certificate validity: 3 years
Delivery: Face-to-face practical training and assessment
Location: PLAB Guide Training Centre, Manchester (PHCAW)

Surgical Skills for Students and Health Professionals (SSSHP)

Royal College of Surgeons of England | One-day practical course

A hands-on introduction to basic surgical skills for medical students, early foundation doctors and theatre staff.

PLAB Guide Training Centre is a Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England) approved centre for the official SSSHP course.

Who should attend

• Medical students, especially those considering surgery
• Early foundation doctors
• Operating Department Practitioners, Surgical First Assistants and Physician Associates
• Allied health professionals moving into a surgical role

What you will practise

• Surgical handwashing, gowning and double-gloving
• Skin preparation and draping
• A variety of surgical knots and instrument handling
• Interrupted, mattress and subcuticular sutures
• Local anaesthetic, skin lesion and sebaceous cyst excision

Included

One year's access to RCS England course videos and a companion handbook. Eligible medical students, foundation and core trainees receive 12 months' complimentary RCS England Affiliate Membership.

Before you book

You need an RCS England contact number. Register free on the RCS England website if you do not have one.

Fee: £212.50 + VAT.

Urinary Catheterisation: one-day course in Manchester

Learn to care for, insert and remove urethral catheters safely. You practise male and female catheterisation on anatomical models in a group of up to 14.

Booking options

• Full day, 09:30 to 16:30, 6 CPD hours: catheter care in the morning, insertion and removal in the afternoon. Refreshments and a sandwich lunch.
• Morning only, 09:30 to 12:30, 3 CPD hours: catheter care for staff who do not insert catheters. Refreshments.

Who it is for

Nurses, nursing associates, healthcare assistants, support workers, care home staff, doctors and students. Whether you may insert catheters at work depends on your employer's policy.

Good to know

Practice is on models only. Your employer supervises and signs you off before you catheterise patients on your own. We recommend a refresher every 2 years. Suprapubic catheter care is covered; suprapubic insertion is not.

Venue: First Floor, 308 Moseley Road, Levenshulme, Manchester M19 2LH.

Venepuncture and Cannulation: one-day course in Manchester

Learn to take blood safely in the morning and insert a peripheral intravenous (IV) cannula in the afternoon. You practise on training arms in a group of up to 14, with a trainer watching every attempt.

Book the full day, or the morning or afternoon on its own.

Times

• Morning, phlebotomy (venepuncture): 09:00 to 12:30
• Lunch: 12:30 to 13:30 (full-day learners)
• Afternoon, peripheral IV cannulation: 13:30 to 17:00

What is included

• Certificate of attendance with CPD hours: 6 for the full day, 3 for a half day
• All equipment and training arms
• Full day: refreshments and a sandwich lunch. Half day: refreshments.

Good to know

This course gives you knowledge and supervised practice on training arms. Your employer supervises and signs you off on patients before you practise on your own. We recommend a refresher every 2 years.

Want more practice? Add the Advanced skills day on the Wednesday of the same week.

Venue: First Floor, 308 Moseley Road, Levenshulme, Manchester M19 2LH. There is limited free parking on site, plus free on-street parking nearby, both on a first-come, first-served basis.

ATLS® – Advanced Trauma Life Support Provider Course

Royal College of Surgeons of England | 11th Edition

Develop a systematic, prioritised and practical approach to the initial assessment and management of seriously injured trauma patients.

The Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS®) Provider Course is an internationally recognised trauma programme developed by the American College of Surgeons and delivered in the UK through the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England). RCS England is the exclusive provider of ATLS® in the UK.

PLAB Guide Training Centre is an approved ATLS® course centre, providing candidates with access to the official RCS England ATLS® Provider programme in Manchester.

The current 11th Edition ATLS® course is a hybrid programme consisting of mandatory pre-course e-learning followed by an intensive two-day face-to-face course. RCS England advises that the online preparation typically takes approximately 20–30 hours and must be completed before attending the practical course.

What Is ATLS®?

ATLS® teaches a structured approach to the early management of trauma patients with potentially life-threatening injuries.

The course is designed around the principle that clinicians should identify and treat the greatest threats to life first, using a repeatable trauma-assessment framework that can be applied even when information, resources or time are limited.

The current 11th Edition places additional emphasis on early control of catastrophic haemorrhage, using the updated xABCDE approach.

Who Is This Course For?

According to RCS England, the ATLS® Provider course is suitable for:

• Doctors at FY2 level and above

• Equivalent staff-grade doctors

• Eligible Advanced Clinical Practitioners

• Eligible hospital-based dentists

Advanced Clinical Practitioners and hospital-based dentists should confirm eligibility with the relevant ATLS® centre or RCS England before booking.

The course is particularly relevant to clinicians working in:

• Emergency Medicine

• Trauma services

• Surgery

• Anaesthesia

• Critical Care

• Orthopaedics

• Acute Care

• Pre-hospital or retrieval medicine where appropriate

What You Will Learn

The course develops a structured approach to:

• Initial assessment of the trauma patient

• Recognition of immediately life-threatening injuries

• Early haemorrhage control

• Airway assessment and protection

• Cervical spine considerations

• Recognition and management of breathing problems

• Circulatory assessment and resuscitation

• Neurological assessment

• Complete patient exposure while preventing hypothermia

• Reassessment following interventions

• Prioritisation of investigations

• Recognition of patients requiring urgent operative or specialist intervention

• Transfer and definitive care planning

• Trauma-team communication and leadership

The xABCDE Approach

The 11th Edition ATLS® curriculum introduces xABCDE, reinforcing the importance of controlling exsanguinating haemorrhage before progressing through the traditional ABCDE sequence.

Candidates develop a disciplined approach to:

x – Exsanguinating Haemorrhage

Identify and control catastrophic external bleeding immediately.

A – Airway with Cervical Spine Considerations

Assess whether the airway is patent, recognise threats to the airway and initiate appropriate intervention while considering potential cervical spine injury.

B – Breathing

Identify and treat immediately life-threatening thoracic conditions.

C – Circulation

Assess perfusion, identify haemorrhage and initiate appropriate circulatory resuscitation.

D – Disability

Perform a rapid neurological assessment and identify significant neurological deterioration.

E – Exposure and Environment

Expose the patient sufficiently to identify injuries while actively preventing heat loss and hypothermia.

Initial Trauma Assessment

Candidates learn how to perform a systematic trauma assessment while treating life-threatening problems as they are found.

The course reinforces:

• Immediate priorities

• Primary survey

• Resuscitation

• Reassessment

• Adjuncts to the primary survey

• Secondary survey

• Definitive care planning

The emphasis is on prioritisation rather than attempting to establish every diagnosis before treatment begins.

Airway and Cervical Spine

Candidates develop their understanding of:

• Recognition of threatened airway

• Basic and advanced airway considerations

• Oxygenation and ventilation

• Cervical spine protection

• Recognition of when airway intervention must take priority

• Appropriate escalation

Thoracic Trauma

The programme covers recognition and initial treatment of serious chest injuries, including conditions capable of causing rapid deterioration.

Candidates learn to integrate:

• Clinical assessment

• Immediate lifesaving treatment

• Imaging where appropriate

• Reassessment

• Specialist escalation

Haemorrhage and Shock

Major haemorrhage remains a central theme of trauma management.

Candidates develop a structured approach to:

• Recognising haemorrhagic shock

• Controlling external bleeding

• Identifying possible internal bleeding

• Initiating appropriate resuscitation

• Avoiding delays to definitive haemorrhage control

• Reassessing response to treatment

Head and Neurological Trauma

Candidates review the initial assessment and management of the trauma patient with neurological injury, including:

• Level of consciousness

• Glasgow Coma Scale

• Pupillary assessment

• Recognition of deterioration

• Prevention of secondary brain injury

• Appropriate imaging and specialist escalation

Musculoskeletal and Other Trauma

The course also addresses broader trauma assessment, including principles relevant to:

• Pelvic injury

• Limb trauma

• Spinal injury

• Burns

• Paediatric trauma

• Trauma in older people

• Trauma in pregnancy

• Other special circumstances covered within the ATLS® curriculum

Trauma Teamwork and Communication

Modern trauma care requires effective teamworking as well as technical competence.

The 11th Edition curriculum includes strengthened content around:

• Team communication

• Shared mental models

• Leadership

• Prioritisation

• Trauma systems

• Disaster preparedness

These areas form part of the wider updates introduced within ATLS® 11.

Course Format

ATLS® is a hybrid course.

Candidates complete:

Mandatory Pre-Course E-Learning

The online component contains the core knowledge required for the face-to-face course.

RCS England states that candidates should allow approximately 20–30 hours to complete this work. The e-learning must be completed in full by the specified deadline before attendance.

Two-Day Face-to-Face Course

The practical course includes:

• Interactive discussions

• Scenario stations

• Initial assessment practice

• Trauma patient assessment and testing

• Triage

• Demonstrations

• Practical trauma-management exercises

RCS England describes the programme as an interactive two-day course designed to develop practical, theoretical and personal trauma-management skills.

Assessment

Candidates are assessed according to the official ATLS® Provider course requirements.

Assessment includes the candidate's ability to demonstrate a safe, prioritised and systematic approach to trauma management.

A candidate who does not meet the required standard for the Provider course will not automatically be offered a repeat assessment session. RCS England states that where the minimum standard is not achieved, the candidate may need to complete another Provider course to obtain ATLS® Provider status.

Booking or attending the course therefore does not guarantee successful completion.

Certification and Provider Status

Successful candidates receive ATLS® Provider status.

Current RCS England guidance states that ATLS® Provider status is valid for four years. Providers approaching expiry may be eligible to complete the appropriate ATLS® reverification course within the permitted timeframe.

CPD Points

The current RCS England ATLS® Provider Course 11th Edition carries 34 CPD points.

This makes ATLS® both a significant clinical training programme and a substantial professional-development activity for eligible clinicians.

Instructor Potential

Candidates who perform particularly strongly may be identified as having Instructor Potential (IP).

RCS England states that faculty consider factors including:

• Excellent core knowledge

• Commitment to ATLS® principles

• Appropriate skills

• Professional attitude

• Suitability for the instructor role

Candidates normally need to be working at ST4 level or equivalent and above to progress through the ATLS® Instructor pathway.

Instructor Potential is awarded solely through the official ATLS® course process and cannot be guaranteed.

Why Complete ATLS®?

ATLS® is particularly valuable for clinicians who:

• Assess seriously injured patients

• Work in Emergency Medicine or trauma care

• Need a structured approach to major trauma

• Want to strengthen trauma-team leadership

• Need trauma training for their specialty pathway

• Want internationally recognised trauma education

• Are developing toward senior clinical roles

• Wish to improve confidence managing time-critical trauma

ATLS® has been used internationally for decades and is taught in more than 80 countries.

Why Complete ATLS® at PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is an approved ATLS® course centre in Manchester.

Candidates can benefit from:

• The official RCS England ATLS® Provider programme

• Experienced ATLS® faculty

• Intensive scenario-based teaching

• Practical trauma assessment

• Realistic resuscitation simulation

• Structured feedback

• Modern clinical training equipment

• A professional and supportive learning environment

• Convenient Manchester location

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Easy access by road and public transport

Our aim is to provide candidates with an organised environment in which they can concentrate fully on developing the systematic trauma-management approach required by the official ATLS® programme.

Important Pre-Course Preparation

ATLS® requires substantial preparation.

Candidates should book early enough to allow sufficient time for:

• RCS registration

• Access to the ATLS® online learning

• Completion of approximately 20–30 hours of mandatory e-learning

• Review of the ATLS® manual

• Consolidation of trauma algorithms

• Completion of all required pre-course activities

Candidates who book close to the course date remain responsible for completing all mandatory preparation before the RCS deadline.

Book Your ATLS® Course in Manchester

Develop a systematic and internationally recognised approach to the assessment and initial management of seriously injured patients.

Book the Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS®) Provider Course – 11th Edition at PLAB Guide Training Centre, Manchester, an approved ATLS® course centre.

Course format: Mandatory online learning + 2 days face-to-face
CPD: 34 points
Provider status: 4 years
Course provider in the UK: Royal College of Surgeons of England
Training centre: PLAB Guide Training Centre, Manchester

Refresher and Reassessment for Existing FREC 3 Providers

Renew and refresh your FREC 3 qualification with focused practical training, scenario-based revision and formal reassessment.

The Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF) Requalification Course is designed for learners who already hold a valid, or recently expired where permitted, FREC 3 qualification and need to renew their certification.

This course revisits the essential knowledge and practical skills required to assess and manage medical and trauma emergencies in the pre-hospital environment, while giving experienced learners the opportunity to demonstrate that they continue to meet the required standard.

Who Is This Course For?

The requalification course is intended for existing FREC 3-qualified learners who need to renew their certification.

It may be suitable for:

• Event medical staff

• Community first responders

• Ambulance support staff

• Security personnel

• Close protection operatives

• Search and rescue personnel

• Fire and rescue staff

• Motorsport and sporting-event medical teams

• Healthcare professionals working in pre-hospital settings

• Individuals progressing within emergency and event medicine

Candidates must meet the current Qualsafe requalification eligibility requirements before attending.

What Does the Course Cover?

The course revisits the core FREC 3 skill set, including:

• Scene safety and dynamic risk assessment

• Primary and secondary patient assessment

• Airway management

• Oxygen administration

• Ventilation support

• Adult, child and infant CPR

• Automated external defibrillation

• Recognition and management of cardiac arrest

• Medical emergencies

• Trauma assessment

• Catastrophic bleeding

• Shock

• Head and spinal injury

• Chest trauma

• Musculoskeletal injuries

• Burns and environmental emergencies

• Patient monitoring

• Clinical observations

• Communication and structured handover

• Reassessment and escalation

Practical Refresher Training

The requalification programme places strong emphasis on practical performance.

Learners can expect to revisit and practise:

• Airway opening and positioning

• Use of airway adjuncts within the scope of the qualification

• Bag-mask ventilation

• Oxygen delivery

• CPR

• AED use

• Haemorrhage control

• Trauma assessment

• Patient positioning

• Monitoring and reassessment

• Team communication

• Clinical handover

The focus is on restoring confidence, correcting bad habits and ensuring that core skills remain safe and effective.

Medical Emergency Scenarios

Learners revisit the recognition and management of acute presentations such as:

• Chest pain

• Suspected acute coronary syndrome

• Stroke

• Seizures

• Asthma

• Anaphylaxis

• Diabetes-related emergencies

• Reduced consciousness

• Breathing difficulties

• Poisoning

• Other time-critical medical conditions

The emphasis is on early recognition, appropriate treatment and timely escalation.

Trauma Refresher

Candidates revise structured trauma management, including:

• Major trauma assessment

• Catastrophic haemorrhage

• Head injury

• Spinal injury

• Chest trauma

• Limb injury

• Fractures

• Burns

• Shock

Scenario practice helps learners maintain a systematic approach under pressure.

Patient Assessment and Monitoring

Candidates review how to:

• Perform a structured primary survey

• Identify life-threatening problems

• Take an appropriate history

• Carry out secondary assessment

• Obtain relevant observations

• Recognise deterioration

• Reassess after interventions

• Escalate care appropriately

Communication and Handover

The course reinforces the importance of:

• Clear communication with patients

• Working effectively with other responders

• Requesting additional resources

• Structured handover

• Accurate documentation

• Professional behaviour in emergency situations

Assessment

Requalification requires successful completion of the current Qualsafe assessment requirements.

Assessment may include:

• Practical assessments

• Skills demonstrations

• Theory assessments

• Scenario-based evaluation

• Ongoing observation

Booking or attendance alone does not guarantee successful requalification.

Certification

Successful learners receive renewed certification for the:

Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF)

The renewed qualification is normally valid for three years, subject to the current Qualsafe specification and certification rules.

Learners should continue regular skills practice and refresher training throughout the certification period.

Eligibility for Requalification

Candidates are responsible for confirming that they are eligible for the requalification route.

Before booking, learners may be asked to provide:

• A copy of their current or previous FREC 3 certificate

• Certificate expiry date

• Identification

• Other evidence required by Qualsafe

If the qualification has expired beyond the permitted requalification period, the learner may need to complete the full FREC 3 provider course instead.

Why Choose Requalification Rather Than the Full Course?

The requalification route is designed for experienced FREC 3 providers who already have the underlying knowledge and practical background.

It allows learners to:

• Refresh essential skills

• Update knowledge

• Practise emergency scenarios

• Identify areas of reduced confidence

• Demonstrate continued competence

• Renew their qualification without unnecessarily repeating the entire initial course

Why Requalify With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is a Qualsafe Approved Centre in Manchester delivering regulated emergency-care and first-aid qualifications.

Learners benefit from:

• Experienced emergency-care instructors

• Practical refresher training

• Realistic medical and trauma scenarios

• Resuscitation equipment

• Structured assessment

• Small-group teaching

• Immediate instructor feedback

• A professional training environment

• Convenient Manchester location

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

Our aim is to help experienced FREC 3 providers return to practice with refreshed knowledge, safer skills and renewed confidence.

Important Course Requirements

Candidates must:

• Meet current requalification eligibility requirements

• Provide evidence of previous FREC 3 certification where requested

• Attend the full requalification programme

• Participate fully in practical training

• Complete all required assessments

• Demonstrate safe professional behaviour

• Inform us in advance of any reasonable adjustment needs

Book Your FREC 3 Requalification Course in Manchester

Keep your pre-hospital emergency-care qualification current with the Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (FREC 3) Requalification Course at PLAB Guide Training Centre.

This course is designed for existing FREC 3 providers who need to refresh their skills, complete formal reassessment and renew their certification.

Qualification: Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF)
Route: Requalification
Suitable for: Existing FREC 3 certificate holders
Certificate validity: Normally 3 years following successful requalification
Delivery: Face-to-face practical refresher training and assessment
Location: PLAB Guide Training Centre, Manchester

ALSG Advanced Paediatric Life Support Course

Develop the knowledge, practical skills and clinical confidence required to recognise, assess, treat and stabilise seriously ill or injured children.

The Advanced Paediatric Life Support (APLS) course is an internationally established paediatric emergency course developed by the Advanced Life Support Group (ALSG). It provides healthcare professionals with a structured and systematic approach to the recognition and management of life-threatening illness and injury in children.

PLAB Guide Training Centre is an approved APLS course centre, providing candidates with the opportunity to complete this highly respected programme in Manchester.

The current APLS 7th Edition is delivered as a blended programme consisting of:

• Two days of face-to-face training
• An additional flexible one-day online learning component through the ALSG Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)

The face-to-face APLS course has also been approved for CPD by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.

What Is APLS?

APLS is designed to help healthcare professionals manage the first critical period of a paediatric emergency using a structured, sequential approach.

The programme focuses on the recognition, assessment, immediate treatment and stabilisation of infants and children with potentially life-threatening conditions.

Since its introduction in 1993, more than 83,000 candidates have completed APLS, and its principles are used internationally in the management of paediatric emergencies.

Who Is This Course For?

APLS is particularly relevant to healthcare professionals involved in the emergency assessment and treatment of seriously ill or injured children.

Candidates commonly include:

• Emergency Medicine doctors
• Paediatricians
• Anaesthetists
• Intensive Care clinicians
• Acute-care doctors
• Consultants
• Specialty trainees
• Advanced Nurse Practitioners
• Resuscitation Training Officers
• Other eligible healthcare professionals regularly involved in acute paediatric care

ALSG specifically identifies candidates from Emergency Medicine, Anaesthesia and Paediatrics among those who commonly attend the course.

Candidates must ensure that they meet the current ALSG eligibility requirements before booking.

What You Will Learn

The course develops a structured approach to the assessment and management of paediatric emergencies, including:

• Recognition of the seriously ill child
• Recognition of the seriously injured child
• Structured paediatric assessment
• Airway assessment and management
• Recognition and treatment of respiratory failure
• Recognition and management of shock
• Paediatric basic and advanced life support
• Management of cardiorespiratory arrest
• Rhythm recognition and defibrillation
• Emergency medication principles
• Neurological emergencies
• Trauma assessment and stabilisation
• Recognition of life-threatening deterioration
• Teamwork during paediatric emergencies
• Leadership and communication
• Reassessment and escalation
• Safe stabilisation prior to definitive care or transfer

A Structured Approach to the Sick Child

A core principle of APLS is the use of a systematic approach when managing a child whose condition may deteriorate rapidly.

Candidates learn to identify immediate threats and prioritise treatment rather than becoming distracted by the final diagnosis.

The emphasis is on:

1. Rapid assessment
2. Recognition of life-threatening problems
3. Immediate treatment
4. Reassessment
5. Escalation and definitive care

This approach helps clinicians remain organised even during complex and stressful paediatric emergencies.

Airway and Breathing Emergencies

Candidates develop their understanding of the recognition and management of paediatric airway and respiratory emergencies.

Teaching may include:

• Recognising airway obstruction
• Basic airway manoeuvres
• Airway adjuncts
• Oxygen therapy
• Bag-mask ventilation
• Recognition of respiratory distress and failure
• Escalation of airway support
• Management of selected respiratory emergencies

The important anatomical and physiological differences between adults and children are reinforced throughout the course.

Circulation and Shock

Candidates learn how to recognise circulatory compromise and initiate immediate treatment.

The course covers principles such as:

• Recognition of compensated and decompensated shock
• Clinical assessment of circulation
• Vascular access
• Fluid and blood-product considerations
• Recognition of different causes of shock
• Reassessment following intervention
• Early escalation in a deteriorating child

Paediatric Cardiac Arrest

Candidates practise a structured approach to paediatric cardiac arrest, including:

• Recognition of arrest
• High-quality paediatric CPR
• Appropriate ventilation
• Rhythm recognition
• Shockable and non-shockable rhythms
• Defibrillation
• Medication considerations
• Identification of reversible causes
• Team roles and communication
• Post-resuscitation stabilisation

Trauma and the Seriously Injured Child

APLS also develops the candidate's ability to assess and stabilise children following serious injury.

Training includes a structured approach to:

• Airway problems following trauma
• Breathing compromise
• Haemorrhage and shock
• Neurological deterioration
• Head injury
• Spinal considerations
• Major trauma assessment
• Safe stabilisation and transfer

The focus remains on recognising and treating immediately life-threatening problems before moving to more detailed assessment.

Neurological Emergencies

Candidates are introduced to the structured assessment and management of important neurological presentations, which may include:

• Reduced consciousness
• Seizures
• Status epilepticus
• Raised intracranial pressure
• Acute neurological deterioration

Clinical scenarios encourage candidates to combine assessment, treatment and reassessment in a time-critical environment.

Online VLE Learning

The APLS 7th Edition incorporates a flexible online learning component through the ALSG Virtual Learning Environment.

This component is an important part of the course and should be completed in accordance with the instructions provided before or alongside the face-to-face programme.

The blended structure allows candidates to complete core theoretical learning online and use the two face-to-face days for practical skills, workshops, discussion and simulation.

Two Days of Face-to-Face Training

The face-to-face component is highly interactive and practical.

Candidates can expect a combination of:

• Skills stations
• Workshops
• Interactive teaching
• Scenario-based learning
• Paediatric resuscitation simulations
• Team-based exercises
• Continuous faculty feedback
• Formal assessment as required by the course programme

The emphasis is on applying knowledge rather than simply recalling information.

The APLS Manual

The current course is supported by the Advanced Paediatric Life Support, 7th Edition manual.

The manual provides the structured approach used throughout the programme and is designed to support doctors, nurses and allied healthcare professionals dealing with paediatric emergencies.

Candidates should complete all required reading and VLE preparation before attending the face-to-face component.

Assessment

Candidates are assessed according to the current ALSG APLS course requirements.

Assessment may include:

• Continuous faculty observation
• Practical performance
• Structured clinical scenarios
• Application of the APLS approach
• Teamwork and communication
• Required knowledge assessments

Candidates must demonstrate a safe and systematic approach to the recognition, treatment and stabilisation of paediatric emergencies.

Booking or attendance does not automatically guarantee successful completion.

Certification

Candidates who successfully complete all required components of the course receive the relevant ALSG APLS certification.

The full APLS course is the initial provider programme. ALSG also offers a one-day APLS recertification course for eligible candidates who have previously completed the full APLS course and later require recertification.

Why Complete APLS?

APLS can be particularly valuable for clinicians who want to:

• Improve confidence managing critically ill children
• Develop a reliable approach to paediatric emergencies
• Strengthen paediatric resuscitation skills
• Improve trauma assessment
• Develop leadership during paediatric emergencies
• Improve team communication
• Prepare for work in Emergency Medicine or Paediatrics
• Strengthen their acute-care portfolio
• Maintain structured paediatric emergency knowledge
• Develop skills applicable to real clinical emergencies

Why Complete APLS at PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is now an approved APLS course centre in Manchester.

Candidates can benefit from:

• An approved ALSG APLS programme
• Experienced paediatric emergency and resuscitation faculty
• Practical simulation-based learning
• Modern resuscitation equipment
• Structured small-group teaching
• Realistic paediatric emergency scenarios
• A supportive professional learning environment
• Convenient Manchester location
• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)
• Easy access by road and public transport

Our focus is to provide a well-organised learning environment where candidates can concentrate on developing the clinical judgement, technical skills and teamwork required during serious paediatric emergencies.

Important Course Preparation

APLS is an intensive advanced course.

Candidates should book sufficiently early to allow time to:

• Complete registration
• Access the ALSG VLE
• Work through the online learning
• Review the APLS manual
• Refresh paediatric resuscitation knowledge
• Complete any required pre-course assessments
• Prepare fully for the practical course

Candidates booking close to the course date must still complete all mandatory preparation before attendance.

Book Your APLS Course in Manchester

Develop a systematic approach to the recognition, treatment and stabilisation of critically ill and injured children with the Advanced Paediatric Life Support course from ALSG.

Book your APLS course at PLAB Guide Training Centre, Manchester, an approved APLS course centre, and complete the current blended programme consisting of the flexible online learning component followed by two days of intensive face-to-face paediatric emergency training.

One-Day Royal College of Surgeons of England Course at PLAB Guide Training Centre

Refresh your trauma knowledge, update your practical approach and reverify your ATLS® Provider status without repeating the full two-day provider course.

The Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS®) Reverification Course – 11th Edition is a one-day revision and reassessment programme for experienced ATLS® Providers who regularly manage severely injured patients.

PLAB Guide Training Centre is an approved ATLS® course centre in Manchester, delivering the official Royal College of Surgeons of England ATLS® Reverification programme.

ATLS® Provider status is valid for four years. Eligible providers may complete the Reverification course up to six months after their Provider status has expired. If more than six months have passed after expiry, candidates must normally repeat the full two-day ATLS® Provider course. (rcseng.ac.uk)

Who Is This Course For?

The ATLS® Reverification course is intended for existing ATLS® Providers who:

• Regularly manage severely injured patients

• Have previously completed the ATLS® Provider course

• Need to renew their ATLS® Provider status

• Completed their previous ATLS® course within the last four and a half years

• Remain familiar with trauma resuscitation and ATLS® principles

RCS England advises that clinicians who do not regularly manage severely injured patients should reverify by completing the full two-day ATLS® Provider course instead. The one-day Reverification course assumes a high degree of familiarity with trauma assessment and resuscitation.

Important Eligibility Requirement

All candidates must provide evidence of their existing ATLS® Provider status when applying for the Reverification course.

Provider status obtained outside the UK may require verification through the American College of Surgeons before the booking can be confirmed.

Course Format

ATLS® Reverification is a hybrid programme consisting of:

• Mandatory pre-course e-learning

• One full day of face-to-face training

• Interactive discussions

• Clinical trauma scenarios

• Embedded practical skills

• Demonstrations

• Formal assessment

The mandatory online learning must be completed in full by the deadline specified by RCS England before attending the face-to-face course.

What You Will Refresh

The course revisits the core principles of the ATLS® approach, helping experienced providers consolidate a safe and systematic method for managing seriously injured patients.

Topics include:

• Initial trauma assessment and management

• xABCDE trauma assessment

• Catastrophic haemorrhage control

• Airway assessment and management

• Cervical spine considerations

• Ventilatory support

• Recognition of life-threatening chest injuries

• Chest decompression principles

• Assessment and treatment of haemorrhagic shock

• Neurological assessment

• Exposure and prevention of hypothermia

• Reassessment after intervention

• Secondary survey

• Trauma prioritisation

• Communication and teamwork

• Transfer and definitive care planning

Initial Trauma Assessment

Candidates revisit the structured ATLS® approach to the trauma patient, including:

1. Immediate identification of catastrophic haemorrhage

2. Airway assessment and protection

3. Breathing and ventilation

4. Circulation and haemorrhage control

5. Disability and neurological assessment

6. Exposure and environmental control

7. Continuous reassessment

8. Secondary survey and definitive planning

The emphasis is on identifying and treating the greatest threat to life first.

Airway and Ventilation

Candidates refresh their approach to:

• Recognition of threatened airway

• Airway positioning and protection

• Oxygenation

• Ventilation

• Cervical spine considerations

• Escalation to advanced airway management

• Emergency surgical airway principles

RCS England specifically includes airway and ventilatory management, including cricothyroidotomy, among the areas refreshed during ATLS® Reverification.

Chest Trauma

The course revisits the rapid recognition and immediate management of life-threatening chest injuries.

Candidates refresh:

• Clinical assessment

• Identification of respiratory compromise

• Recognition of tension physiology

• Chest decompression principles

• Reassessment following intervention

• Escalation and definitive care

Haemorrhagic Shock

Candidates revisit the recognition and initial management of traumatic shock, including:

• Identifying major haemorrhage

• Controlling external bleeding

• Recognising possible internal bleeding

• Assessing perfusion

• Prioritising haemorrhage control

• Appropriate resuscitation

• Reassessment of response

Assessment and management of haemorrhagic shock are explicitly included within the RCS England learning outcomes for Reverification.

Trauma Team Communication

The Reverification course also reinforces the use of standardised trauma language and structured communication.

Candidates are expected to demonstrate:

• Clear prioritisation

• Effective delegation

• Closed-loop communication

• Appropriate escalation

• Structured reassessment

• Concise handover

RCS England identifies effective use of the standardised language of trauma care as a formal learning outcome of the course.

Learning Outcomes

Following successful completion, candidates should be able to:

• Demonstrate refreshed knowledge of ATLS® principles

• Apply the ATLS® approach to the immediate management of trauma

• Recognise and treat life-threatening injuries in priority order

• Use a systematic trauma-assessment framework

• Communicate using standardised trauma terminology

• Integrate practical and theoretical trauma-management skills

• Reassess and escalate appropriately

• Continue providing safe, structured trauma care

Assessment

Candidates must meet the current RCS England ATLS® Reverification assessment requirements.

The course assumes prior ATLS® knowledge and recent trauma-management experience, so candidates should prepare thoroughly and complete all mandatory online learning before attendance.

Booking and attendance do not automatically guarantee successful reverification.

Reverification and Provider Status

Successful completion renews the candidate’s ATLS® Provider status.

ATLS® Provider status is valid for four years. The Reverification course may be completed at any point within the permitted renewal period, including up to six months after expiry.

Candidates who exceed the six-month post-expiry window must normally complete the full two-day ATLS® Provider course again.

CPD Points

The current ATLS® Reverification Course – 11th Edition carries 10 CPD points from the Royal College of Surgeons of England.

Instructor Potential

Eligible candidates may also be identified as having ATLS® Instructor Potential (IP) during an ATLS® Reverification course.

RCS England confirms that Instructor Potential can be awarded following either an ATLS® Provider or ATLS® Reverification course, subject to the candidate meeting the relevant standards and instructor eligibility requirements.

Instructor Potential is based on faculty assessment and cannot be guaranteed.

Reverification or Full ATLS® Provider Course?

Choose ATLS® Reverification if:

• You currently hold or recently held ATLS® Provider status

• Your provider status is within the permitted reverification window

• You regularly manage severely injured patients

• You remain familiar with trauma resuscitation

• You want to renew your existing provider status

Choose the Full ATLS® Provider Course if:

• You have never completed ATLS®

• Your Provider status expired more than six months ago

• You do not regularly manage severely injured patients

• You would benefit from the more extensive two-day programme

• You are not eligible for Reverification

Why Reverify at PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is an approved ATLS® course centre in Manchester.

Candidates benefit from:

• The official RCS England ATLS® Reverification programme

• Experienced ATLS® faculty

• Interactive trauma scenarios

• Practical trauma-management revision

• Structured assessment

• Modern simulation equipment

• A professional and supportive learning environment

• Convenient Manchester location

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Easy access by road and public transport

Our aim is to provide experienced trauma clinicians with an efficient and well-organised opportunity to update their knowledge and renew their ATLS® Provider status.

Important Pre-Course Preparation

Candidates should book sufficiently early to allow time for:

• Verification of previous ATLS® Provider status

• RCS registration

• Access to mandatory e-learning

• Completion of all required pre-course learning

• Review of current ATLS® principles

• Preparation for the practical and assessment components

Candidates booking close to the course date remain responsible for meeting all mandatory pre-course requirements before the specified deadline.

Book Your ATLS® Reverification Course in Manchester

Keep your trauma-management knowledge current and renew your ATLS® Provider status through the official one-day ATLS® Reverification programme.

Book your Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS®) Reverification Course – 11th Edition at PLAB Guide Training Centre, Manchester.

Course: ATLS® Reverification – 11th Edition
Provider: Royal College of Surgeons of England
Format: Mandatory e-learning + 1 day face-to-face
CPD: 10 points
Eligibility: Existing ATLS® Providers within the permitted reverification window who regularly manage severely injured patients
Provider status after successful completion: 4 years
Location: PLAB Guide Training Centre, Manchester

Emergency First Aid at Work Training

Qualsafe Level 3 Award | One-Day Course

Develop the practical skills and confidence required to respond safely and effectively when someone becomes injured or suddenly unwell at work.

The Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work (RQF) is a regulated, one-day qualification designed for employees who may be appointed as emergency first aiders within the workplace.

The course provides candidates with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to assess an incident, manage an emergency and provide immediate first aid until professional medical assistance arrives.

Emergency First Aid at Work training enables a first aider to provide emergency assistance to someone who is injured or becomes ill at work. Employers must assess their workplace first-aid needs and provide appropriate equipment, facilities and trained personnel.

What You Will Learn

During the course, candidates learn how to:

• Understand the role and responsibilities of an emergency first aider

• Assess an incident safely

• Protect themselves, the casualty and bystanders

• Check a casualty’s level of response

• Open and maintain the airway

• Check for normal breathing

• Manage an unresponsive breathing casualty

• Place a casualty in the recovery position

• Perform effective adult cardiopulmonary resuscitation

• Use an automated external defibrillator safely

• Manage choking in an adult casualty

• Control external bleeding

• Recognise and manage shock

• Manage minor injuries

• Respond appropriately to seizures

• Call the emergency services and provide a clear handover

• Monitor a casualty until further help arrives

Course Content

Role of the First Aider

Candidates learn about:

• Their responsibilities during an emergency

• The importance of personal safety

• Infection-prevention measures

• Consent and casualty communication

• Calling for appropriate assistance

• Recording and reporting workplace incidents

Assessing an Emergency

Candidates practise a structured approach to:

• Identifying hazards

• Checking for danger

• Assessing responsiveness

• Establishing immediate priorities

• Summoning help

• Providing safe and appropriate first aid

Unresponsive Casualty

Candidates learn how to:

• Open the airway

• Assess breathing

• Place a breathing casualty in the recovery position

• Monitor the casualty

• Respond if the casualty vomits or regurgitates

• Recognise when CPR is required

CPR and AED

Candidates practise:

• Correct hand positioning

• High-quality chest compressions

• Rescue breaths

• Minimising interruptions

• Switching on and operating an AED

• Correct AED pad placement

• Following visual and spoken instructions

• Delivering a shock safely

• Resuming CPR immediately

Choking

Candidates learn how to recognise and manage:

• Mild airway obstruction

• Severe airway obstruction

• Conscious choking

• An unresponsive choking casualty

• The need for medical assessment following treatment

Bleeding and Shock

Candidates learn how to:

• Identify significant external bleeding

• Apply direct pressure

• Use dressings appropriately

• Recognise the signs of shock

• Position and reassure the casualty

• Arrange urgent medical assistance

Seizures and Minor Injuries

The course also covers the immediate management of:

• Seizures

• Minor cuts and grazes

• Bruises

• Small splinters

• Minor burns and scalds

Who Is This Course For?

This qualification is suitable for:

• Employees nominated as workplace emergency first aiders

• Staff working in offices, shops and hospitality

• Construction and warehouse employees

• School and education staff

• Care and support workers

• Reception and administrative staff

• Security and public-facing employees

• Sports and leisure staff

• Volunteers and community workers

• Self-employed professionals

• Anyone who wants a recognised workplace first-aid qualification

Employers should select the appropriate level of first-aid training after completing a workplace first-aid needs assessment. EFAW may be suitable where that assessment identifies a need for emergency first-aid provision rather than the broader First Aid at Work qualification.

Course Format

This is a one-day, classroom-based course combining theory with practical training.

The programme includes:

• Instructor-led teaching

• Practical demonstrations

• CPR practice

• AED training

• Recovery-position practice

• Choking management

• Bleeding-control exercises

• Scenario-based learning

• Practical assessment

• Theory assessment where required

• Instructor feedback

Candidates should be prepared to participate fully in practical activities, including kneeling on the floor and performing chest compressions.

Assessment

Candidates are assessed through practical demonstrations, ongoing observation and any required theory assessment.

To successfully complete the qualification, candidates must demonstrate that they can:

• Assess an incident safely

• Manage an unresponsive casualty

• Perform effective CPR

• Use an AED safely

• Manage choking

• Control external bleeding

• Recognise and manage shock

• Respond appropriately to seizures and minor injuries

Booking or attending the course does not automatically guarantee successful completion.

Certification

Successful candidates receive the Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work (RQF).

The qualification certificate is valid for three years. Annual refresher training is strongly recommended to help first aiders maintain their practical skills and confidence.

Candidates should complete appropriate requalification training before their certificate expires.

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre provides professional and practical first-aid training at our Manchester centre.

Candidates benefit from:

• Qualified and experienced instructors

• Hands-on CPR and AED practice

• Modern first-aid training equipment

• Realistic workplace emergency scenarios

• Structured instructor feedback

• A supportive and inclusive learning environment

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Convenient access by road and public transport

• Individual and group booking options

Our aim is to ensure that candidates leave with the practical competence and confidence required to respond appropriately during a workplace emergency.

Book Emergency First Aid at Work Training in Manchester

Gain a nationally recognised workplace first-aid qualification in one day.

Book your Qualsafe Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work course in Manchester with PLAB Guide Training Centre.

Individual bookings and private group training are available for businesses, healthcare organisations, schools, care providers and community groups.

EPALS – European Paediatric Advanced Life Support Course

Develop the knowledge, practical skills and confidence required to recognise and manage seriously ill or injured infants and children with the Resuscitation Council UK European Paediatric Advanced Life Support (EPALS) course.

EPALS is an intensive, practical two-day course designed for healthcare professionals who may be involved in assessing, treating or resuscitating deteriorating children. The course follows current evidence-based paediatric resuscitation guidance and focuses on the structured management of respiratory failure, circulatory failure, neurological deterioration, serious illness, trauma and cardiorespiratory arrest.

What You Will Learn

Throughout the course, candidates develop a systematic approach to paediatric emergencies, including:

• Structured assessment of the seriously ill or injured child

• Recognition and management of respiratory distress and respiratory failure

• Recognition and treatment of shock and circulatory failure

• Management of paediatric cardiac arrest

• Effective paediatric basic and advanced life support

• Safe defibrillation and emergency medication use

• Management of common paediatric medical emergencies

• Assessment and initial management of the seriously injured child

• Effective teamwork, communication and leadership during emergencies

• Reassessment, stabilisation and safe escalation of care

Teaching is delivered through a combination of interactive discussions, practical skill stations, workshops and realistic scenario-based simulations. Candidates are encouraged to apply their knowledge, demonstrate clinical decision-making and work effectively as part of a resuscitation team.

Who Is This Course For?

The EPALS course is suitable for healthcare professionals who are expected to manage paediatric emergencies as part of their clinical role, including:

• Doctors working in paediatrics, emergency medicine, anaesthesia, intensive care and acute specialties

• Foundation and specialty trainees

• Nurses working in paediatric, emergency, critical care and acute clinical environments

• Paramedics and other appropriately experienced healthcare professionals

• Eligible final-year healthcare students where an established local arrangement is in place

Healthcare professionals who require paediatric emergency skills but do not routinely lead advanced paediatric resuscitation may find the Paediatric Immediate Life Support course more appropriate.

Pre-Course Preparation

Candidates are expected to prepare thoroughly before attending. Course materials and pre-course learning instructions are provided in advance, allowing candidates to review essential knowledge and arrive ready to participate fully in practical teaching and assessment.

The official EPALS manual follows the latest UK resuscitation guidance and provides the core clinical knowledge required for the course.

Assessment and Certification

Candidates are assessed throughout the course through practical participation, clinical scenarios and formal assessment components. Successful candidates receive a Resuscitation Council UK EPALS Provider certificate, which is valid for four years. Current certificates can also be independently verified by candidates and employers through the Resuscitation Council UK system.

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is an established and approved Resuscitation Council UK course centre in Manchester. Our EPALS courses are delivered in a professional, supportive and simulation-focused learning environment.

Candidates benefit from:

• Experienced and supportive EPALS faculty

• Realistic paediatric emergency simulations

• Practical, hands-on training

• Structured feedback throughout the course

• Modern training facilities

• Small-group learning opportunities

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Convenient access by road and public transport

• A central Manchester training location

Our aim is not simply to help candidates complete the course, but to develop the confidence, clinical judgement and teamwork skills needed to respond effectively when a child becomes critically unwell.

Book Your EPALS Course in Manchester

Strengthen your paediatric emergency and resuscitation skills with high-quality, practical training at PLAB Guide Training Centre.

Places on each course are limited. Early booking is recommended to allow sufficient time for registration, delivery of course materials and completion of the required pre-course preparation.

Qualsafe Level 3 Award | Three-Day Course

Develop the knowledge, practical competence and confidence required to manage a broad range of workplace injuries, illnesses and medical emergencies.

The Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work (RQF) is a comprehensive, regulated workplace first-aid qualification delivered over three days. It is designed for employees who are appointed to act as qualified first aiders, particularly in workplaces where a first-aid needs assessment identifies higher risks or the need for more extensive first-aid provision.

A First Aid at Work-qualified first aider can provide the emergency assistance covered by Emergency First Aid at Work while also responding to a wider range of specific injuries and illnesses. Employers should determine the appropriate level of training through their workplace first-aid needs assessment.

What You Will Learn

During the course, candidates learn how to:

• Understand the role and responsibilities of a workplace first aider

• Assess an emergency scene safely

• Protect themselves, the casualty and bystanders

• Carry out a structured casualty assessment

• Recognise and manage an unresponsive casualty

• Open and maintain the airway

• Perform effective adult cardiopulmonary resuscitation

• Use an automated external defibrillator safely

• Place a breathing casualty in the recovery position

• Recognise and manage choking

• Control minor and severe external bleeding

• Recognise and manage shock

• Respond appropriately to seizures

• Recognise and manage suspected spinal injuries

• Manage fractures, dislocations, sprains and strains

• Respond to head, chest and abdominal injuries

• Manage burns and scalds

• Respond to eye injuries

• Recognise poisoning and provide appropriate first aid

• Manage anaphylaxis and severe allergic reactions

• Recognise and respond to heart attacks

• Recognise and respond to strokes

• Manage asthma attacks

• Respond to diabetic emergencies

• Recognise and manage fainting

• Respond to hypothermia and heat-related illness

• Provide safe casualty monitoring and handover

• Record and report workplace incidents appropriately

Course Content

The Role of the First Aider

Candidates learn about:

• Responsibilities and limitations of a workplace first aider

• Maintaining personal and casualty safety

• Infection-prevention measures

• Consent and respectful casualty communication

• Prioritising treatment

• Contacting emergency services

• Accident reporting and record keeping

• First-aid equipment and workplace arrangements

Assessing an Emergency

Candidates practise a structured approach to:

• Identifying hazards

• Checking for danger

• Assessing responsiveness

• Opening the airway

• Checking breathing

• Identifying life-threatening conditions

• Calling for appropriate assistance

• Monitoring the casualty until help arrives

CPR and AED

Candidates develop practical competence in:

• Recognising cardiac arrest

• Performing high-quality chest compressions

• Delivering rescue breaths

• Minimising interruptions to CPR

• Preparing and operating an AED

• Positioning AED pads correctly

• Delivering a shock safely

• Resuming CPR promptly

• Following AED prompts until emergency help takes over

Unresponsive Casualty

Candidates learn how to:

• Manage an unresponsive breathing casualty

• Use the recovery position

• Protect the airway

• Monitor breathing continuously

• Respond to vomiting or regurgitation

• Recognise deterioration requiring CPR

Choking

Training covers:

• Recognition of mild and severe choking

• Encouraging effective coughing

• Back blows

• Abdominal thrusts

• Management of an unresponsive choking casualty

• Arranging appropriate medical follow-up

Bleeding, Wounds and Shock

Candidates practise:

• Applying direct pressure

• Using dressings safely

• Managing embedded objects

• Recognising life-threatening bleeding

• Preventing deterioration

• Recognising the signs and symptoms of shock

• Reassuring and monitoring the casualty

• Calling for urgent emergency assistance

Injuries to Bones, Muscles and Joints

Candidates learn how to recognise and manage:

• Fractures

• Dislocations

• Sprains

• Strains

• Suspected spinal injuries

• Head injuries

• Chest injuries

• Abdominal injuries

The course emphasises avoiding unnecessary movement and arranging appropriate emergency care.

Burns, Scalds and Eye Injuries

Training includes the immediate management of:

• Thermal burns

• Chemical burns

• Electrical burns

• Scalds

• Contamination of the eye

• Foreign objects in the eye

• Serious eye injuries

Medical Emergencies

Candidates learn to recognise and respond to common workplace medical emergencies, including:

• Heart attack

• Stroke

• Seizure

• Asthma attack

• Diabetic emergency

• Anaphylaxis

• Fainting

• Poisoning

• Heat exhaustion and heatstroke

• Hypothermia

Who Is This Course For?

This qualification may be suitable for:

• Employees appointed as workplace first aiders

• Construction and engineering staff

• Manufacturing and warehouse teams

• Care-home and healthcare support staff

• School and education employees

• Hospitality and retail teams

• Security personnel

• Sports and leisure staff

• Transport and logistics workers

• Office employees in larger organisations

• Supervisors and managers

• Employees working in higher-risk environments

• Self-employed professionals

• Volunteers with first-aid responsibilities

Employers are responsible for completing a workplace first-aid needs assessment and deciding whether the three-day First Aid at Work qualification is appropriate for their organisation.

Course Format

The course is normally delivered over a minimum of three days and combines instructor-led learning with practical training and assessment. HSE guidance permits delivery over a longer period, provided the full course is completed within the applicable timeframe.

The programme includes:

• Interactive classroom teaching

• Practical demonstrations

• Individual and group exercises

• CPR and AED practice

• Recovery-position practice

• Choking-management exercises

• Bleeding-control techniques

• Injury-management scenarios

• Medical-emergency scenarios

• Practical assessments

• Theory assessments

• Structured instructor feedback

Candidates must attend and participate fully on all three course days.

Assessment

Candidates are assessed throughout the course through practical demonstrations, ongoing observation and required theory assessments.

To successfully complete the qualification, candidates must demonstrate that they can:

• Assess incidents safely

• Prioritise casualty care

• Manage an unresponsive casualty

• Perform effective CPR

• Use an AED safely

• Manage choking

• Control bleeding

• Recognise and manage shock

• Respond appropriately to injuries

• Recognise and manage common medical emergencies

• Communicate effectively and arrange appropriate help

Booking and attendance do not automatically guarantee successful completion.

Certification

Successful candidates receive the Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work (RQF).

First Aid at Work certificates are valid for three years. Before the certificate expires, the first aider must complete an appropriate requalification course to obtain a new certificate. Once a certificate has expired, the individual is no longer regarded as currently competent to act as a workplace first aider for regulatory purposes.

Regular refresher training is recommended to help candidates maintain their practical skills, knowledge and confidence between formal qualifications.

First Aid at Work or Emergency First Aid at Work?

The one-day Emergency First Aid at Work course focuses on essential emergency response skills.

The three-day First Aid at Work course covers those emergency skills while providing broader training in the management of workplace injuries and medical conditions.

The appropriate qualification depends on factors such as:

• Workplace hazards

• Number of employees

• Accident history

• Distance from emergency medical services

• Working patterns and shifts

• Employees with particular health risks

• Members of the public present

• Lone or remote working

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre provides professional, practical and supportive first-aid training at our Manchester centre.

Candidates benefit from:

• Qualified and experienced instructors

• Practical, scenario-based learning

• Modern CPR and AED training equipment

• Workplace-focused emergency simulations

• Structured instructor feedback

• A professional and inclusive learning environment

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Convenient access by road and public transport

• Individual and organisational booking options

Our aim is to ensure that successful candidates leave with the competence and confidence required to respond effectively to workplace injuries and medical emergencies.

Book First Aid at Work Training in Manchester

Gain a nationally regulated workplace first-aid qualification through comprehensive three-day training.

Book your Qualsafe Level 3 First Aid at Work course in Manchester with PLAB Guide Training Centre.

Individual bookings and private group courses are available for businesses, healthcare organisations, schools, care providers, construction companies and community organisations.

2-Hour Ofqual-Regulated Course | Certificate Valid for 1 Year

Help make your school or education setting safer for children and young people living with allergies.

The Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Allergy and Anaphylaxis Awareness (RQF) is a focused two-hour regulated qualification designed to give staff and volunteers the knowledge and confidence to recognise allergic reactions, respond appropriately to anaphylaxis and asthma, and understand their responsibilities for allergy safety within education settings.

The qualification has become particularly important following the introduction of new statutory allergy-safety requirements for schools in England, often referred to as Benedict’s Law. From the 2026–27 academic year, schools are subject to strengthened requirements around allergy policies, staff training, emergency preparedness and the management of pupils with allergies.

Why This Training Is Important

Severe allergic reactions can develop rapidly and may become life-threatening within minutes.

School staff may be the first people to recognise that a child is developing an allergic reaction. Prompt recognition, appropriate first aid and rapid access to emergency treatment can therefore be critical.

The new statutory allergy-safety framework requires schools to take a more consistent whole-school approach to allergy management. Department for Education guidance includes requirements around allergy-safety policies, staff training, individual healthcare planning, incident reporting and emergency preparedness.

This qualification helps staff understand what allergy is, how reactions may present and what action should be taken when a child or young person becomes unwell.

Who Is This Course For?

The course is designed for staff and volunteers working in schools and education settings who may be responsible for the care, supervision or safety of children and young people.

It may be particularly suitable for:

• Teachers

• Teaching assistants

• Headteachers and senior leaders

• School administrators

• Reception staff

• Lunchtime supervisors

• School catering staff

• School nurses and healthcare staff

• SEND staff

• Pastoral and safeguarding teams

• Sports coaches

• PE staff

• Minibus and transport staff

• Caretakers and site staff

• Volunteers

• After-school club staff

• Anyone who may need to recognise or respond to an allergic emergency

Because a reaction can occur anywhere on school premises, allergy awareness should not be limited only to designated first aiders. Current guidance expects a whole-school approach to staff awareness and emergency response.

What You Will Learn

The course covers the key knowledge and practical awareness required to recognise and respond to allergy-related emergencies.

Learners will develop an understanding of:

• How to manage allergies safely within a school environment

• What an allergy is

• How allergic reactions occur

• Common triggers and allergens

• Mild, moderate and severe allergic reactions

• The signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis

• The signs and symptoms of asthma

• How to provide first aid for suspected anaphylaxis

• How to respond to an asthma attack

• How allergic reactions should be treated

• The importance of early escalation

• The impact allergies can have on a child’s physical and emotional wellbeing

• How allergy-related incidents should be reported and recorded

These learning areas reflect the core content identified in the Qualsafe course materials.

Understanding Allergies

Learners are introduced to the basic principles of allergy, including:

• What happens during an allergic reaction

• Common food and environmental allergens

• How reactions can vary between individuals

• Why a previously mild reaction does not necessarily predict the severity of a future reaction

• The importance of individual allergy management plans

• Avoidance and risk-reduction measures

The course encourages staff to understand that allergy management is not simply about reacting to emergencies; it also requires prevention, awareness and good communication.

Recognising Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening systemic allergic reaction.

Learners are taught to recognise important warning signs, which may include:

• Airway swelling

• Difficulty breathing

• Wheeze

• Persistent cough

• Voice change

• Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat

• Collapse

• Dizziness

• Reduced responsiveness

• Widespread skin changes

• Rapid clinical deterioration

The course emphasises the importance of acting quickly when anaphylaxis is suspected.

Emergency Response

Learners develop an understanding of what to do when an allergic emergency occurs, including:

• Recognising the reaction promptly

• Calling for appropriate assistance

• Following the individual child’s emergency plan where available

• Calling 999 when required

• Understanding the role of adrenaline auto-injectors

• Providing appropriate first aid

• Monitoring the child

• Communicating clearly with emergency services

• Providing an effective handover

• Recording and reporting the incident afterwards

Adrenaline Auto-Injectors

The new allergy-safety framework places increased emphasis on preparedness for anaphylaxis, including access to emergency adrenaline devices.

Schools are expected to have appropriate arrangements for adrenaline auto-injectors and staff training as part of their allergy-safety provision.

The course helps learners understand:

• Why adrenaline is used in anaphylaxis

• When emergency escalation is required

• The role of prescribed and emergency adrenaline devices

• The importance of following school procedures and individual healthcare plans

• The need for ongoing monitoring after treatment

Asthma Awareness

Allergic disease and asthma can overlap, and respiratory symptoms may complicate the assessment of an unwell child.

The qualification therefore includes recognition of:

• Common asthma symptoms

• Signs of worsening respiratory distress

• How to respond to an asthma attack

• When emergency assistance is required

• The importance of following the child’s individual care plan

Allergy Safety in Schools

The course also develops awareness of broader allergy management responsibilities.

Learners consider:

• Creating a safer school environment

• Identifying pupils with known allergies

• Understanding individual healthcare plans

• Reducing avoidable exposure to allergens

• Communication between staff, pupils and parents

• Managing school trips and activities

• Catering and food-related considerations

• Responding to incidents and near misses

• Learning from previous events

• Promoting inclusion rather than unnecessary exclusion

From September 2026, statutory guidance requires relevant schools in England to have an allergy-safety policy and to take structured action to support pupils with allergies.

Supporting the Child’s Wellbeing

Allergies can affect much more than physical health.

Children with severe allergies may experience:

• Anxiety

• Fear of eating

• Social exclusion

• Worry about school trips

• Concern about bullying or stigma

• Reduced participation in activities

• Anxiety around unfamiliar staff or environments

The Qualsafe syllabus specifically includes understanding the impact allergies can have on a child’s wellbeing.

Staff are encouraged to support children in a way that promotes both safety and inclusion.

Reporting and Recording

Following an allergy-related incident, appropriate documentation is essential.

Learners develop awareness of:

• Recording what happened

• Documenting actions taken

• Reporting serious incidents and near misses

• Communicating with relevant school leaders and parents or carers

• Reviewing whether further preventative measures are required

Incident reporting and learning from near misses are also highlighted within the new statutory school-allergy framework.

Course Duration

This is a 2-hour course.

It provides focused training that can be delivered efficiently to school and education staff while still leading to a nationally regulated qualification.

Assessment

Learners must successfully complete the required assessment in accordance with Qualsafe requirements.

Booking and attendance alone do not automatically guarantee certification.

Certification

Successful learners receive the:

Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Allergy and Anaphylaxis Awareness (RQF)

The qualification is Ofqual regulated, and the certificate is valid for one year.

Annual training is particularly relevant because allergy awareness and emergency response training for school staff is now part of the strengthened statutory allergy-safety arrangements in England.

Benedict’s Law and the New School Allergy Requirements

The new measures follow campaigning after the death of Benedict Blythe, a five-year-old child who died following an allergic reaction at school.

The resulting changes introduced through the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 strengthen allergy-safety responsibilities for schools and provide a statutory basis for measures including allergy policies, staff training, incident reporting and emergency medication arrangements.

From September 2026, relevant schools in England are expected to implement the new allergy-safety requirements as part of their statutory responsibilities.

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is a Qualsafe registered training centre providing regulated healthcare, first aid and emergency training.

We can support schools and education organisations with:

• Individual staff bookings

• Whole-school training

• Group bookings

• On-site training for organisations

• Regulated Qualsafe certification

• Experienced healthcare and first-aid instructors

• Practical, clinically focused teaching

• Training for teachers and non-clinical school staff

• Flexible arrangements for larger organisations

• Training at our Manchester centre or, where arranged, at the client’s venue

Our aim is to help schools move beyond simple awareness and ensure staff understand how to recognise an allergic emergency and take appropriate action.

Training for Your Whole School

With allergy awareness now forming part of the strengthened statutory safety arrangements for schools, organisations may wish to arrange training for multiple staff members rather than relying solely on designated first aiders.

PLAB Guide Training Centre can provide group training for:

• Primary schools

• Secondary schools

• Academies

• Special schools

• Alternative provision

• Education trusts

• School groups

• Local education organisations

Please contact us for group and on-site training arrangements.

Book the Allergy and Anaphylaxis Awareness Course

Prepare your staff to recognise and respond appropriately to allergy-related emergencies.

Book the Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Allergy and Anaphylaxis Awareness (RQF) with PLAB Guide Training Centre.

Course duration: 2 hours
Qualification: Ofqual-regulated Level 3 Award
Certificate validity: 1 year
Ideal for: School staff, education professionals and volunteers responsible for children and young people

Resuscitation Council UK | One-Day Provider Course

Develop the knowledge, practical skills and confidence required to assess and resuscitate a newborn infant during the critical first minutes after birth.

The Resuscitation Council UK Newborn Life Support (NLS) course is a one-day, practical provider course for healthcare professionals involved in the delivery and care of newborn infants.

The course focuses specifically on the newborn who requires assistance at birth and teaches candidates how to recognise poor condition, support breathing, manage the airway and initiate effective newborn resuscitation in a structured and systematic way.

NLS has been delivered since 1999 and is undertaken by thousands of healthcare professionals each year. It is particularly relevant to clinicians working in maternity, neonatal, paediatric, emergency and pre-hospital environments. (resus.org.uk)

Who Is This Course For?

The NLS course is designed for healthcare professionals who are regularly involved in the delivery or immediate care of newborn infants.

This includes:

• Paediatric doctors

• Neonatal doctors

• Obstetric doctors

• Anaesthetists

• Emergency Medicine doctors

• Foundation and specialty trainees

• Midwives

• Neonatal nurses

• Paediatric nurses

• Advanced neonatal nurse practitioners

• Paramedics

• Resuscitation officers

• Other eligible healthcare professionals involved in newborn care

Candidates must hold a professional healthcare qualification or be training toward an appropriate healthcare qualification. (resus.org.uk)

What You Will Learn

The course develops a structured approach to the newborn infant who requires assistance immediately after birth.

Candidates learn how to:

• Assess the newborn infant rapidly

• Recognise when intervention is required

• Understand the causes of apnoea, bradycardia and poor condition at birth

• Maintain temperature and minimise heat loss

• Position and open the newborn airway

• Provide effective airway support

• Deliver appropriate inflation and ventilation breaths

• Assess the effectiveness of ventilation

• Recognise improvement or deterioration

• Perform chest compressions when indicated

• Coordinate ventilation and compressions

• Understand the role of oxygen during newborn resuscitation

• Recognise when advanced assistance is required

• Communicate effectively within the resuscitation team

• Reassess continuously during resuscitation

• Stabilise the newborn after successful initial resuscitation

The First Minutes After Birth

The first few minutes after delivery can be critical for an infant who does not establish effective breathing.

Candidates learn to approach the newborn systematically and prioritise:

1. Temperature control

2. Airway positioning

3. Assessment of breathing

4. Assessment of heart rate

5. Lung inflation and ventilation

6. Reassessment

7. Chest compressions and further intervention where required

The course helps candidates understand that effective ventilation is central to successful newborn resuscitation.

Understanding Newborn Physiology

Candidates review the physiological transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life and how problems during this transition can result in:

• Apnoea

• Bradycardia

• Poor respiratory effort

• Cyanosis

• Reduced tone

• Cardiovascular compromise

Understanding these principles helps candidates recognise why newborn resuscitation differs from adult and paediatric life support.

Airway Management and Ventilation

Airway management forms a major part of the NLS course.

Candidates practise:

• Correct head positioning

• Opening the airway

• Mask positioning

• Appropriate mask seal

• Inflation breaths

• Positive-pressure ventilation

• Recognising effective chest movement

• Correcting ineffective ventilation

• Reassessing heart rate after intervention

A structured approach to airway troubleshooting is emphasised throughout the course.

Chest Compressions

Candidates learn when chest compressions are indicated and how they should be coordinated with ventilation.

Practical training includes:

• Appropriate hand position

• Correct compression technique

• Compression depth

• Compression-to-ventilation coordination

• Reassessment of heart rate

• Recognition of response to treatment

Teamwork and Communication

Newborn resuscitation often requires effective multidisciplinary working.

Candidates practise:

• Clear communication

• Allocation of tasks

• Calling for additional help

• Sharing clinical findings

• Coordinating airway and circulatory interventions

• Maintaining situational awareness

• Structured reassessment

• Safe handover following stabilisation

Course Structure

NLS is delivered as a one-day face-to-face course at an approved Resuscitation Council UK course centre.

The programme includes:

• Lectures

• Practical skill stations

• Airway training

• Ventilation practice

• Newborn resuscitation simulations

• Team-based scenarios

• Instructor feedback

• Formal practical assessment

The emphasis is on applying the NLS approach in realistic simulated emergencies rather than classroom learning alone. (resus.org.uk)

Pre-Course Preparation

Candidates receive the official NLS manual in advance of the course and are expected to prepare thoroughly before attending.

Resuscitation Council UK currently advises that candidates receive the manual approximately one month before the course.

Candidates should:

• Read the NLS manual

• Review newborn resuscitation principles

• Complete the required online MCQ paper

• Familiarise themselves with the NLS algorithm

• Arrive prepared to participate fully in practical teaching and assessment

Early booking is strongly recommended because adequate preparation is an important part of the course. (resus.org.uk)

Assessment

The NLS course includes a formal practical assessment focused on essential newborn airway management skills.

Candidates are expected to demonstrate that they can:

• Assess the newborn appropriately

• Position and manage the airway

• Deliver effective ventilatory support

• Recognise whether ventilation is working

• Correct ineffective ventilation

• Apply the structured newborn life support approach safely

Booking and attendance do not automatically guarantee successful completion.

Certification

Successful candidates receive a Resuscitation Council UK NLS Provider certificate, valid for four years. (resus.org.uk)

The course is also recognised for continuing professional development by relevant Medical, Dental and Nursing Royal Colleges and the Health and Care Professions Council, subject to the requirements of the individual professional body. RCUK currently lists 5 CPD points for NLS provider-course candidates. (resus.org.uk)

NLS and Recertification

The full NLS Provider course is the appropriate initial course for candidates who have not previously completed NLS or whose previous certification falls outside the current recertification eligibility window.

Resuscitation Council UK also offers a separate NLS Recertification course for eligible experienced clinicians who already hold, or have recently held, an NLS Provider certificate. (resus.org.uk)

Why Complete NLS?

NLS may be particularly valuable for healthcare professionals who want to:

• Improve confidence during newborn emergencies

• Develop a structured neonatal resuscitation approach

• Strengthen airway and ventilation skills

• Improve recognition of newborn deterioration

• Practise newborn resuscitation before encountering it clinically

• Develop multidisciplinary teamwork skills

• Meet relevant training or employment requirements

• Strengthen a paediatric, neonatal, maternity or acute-care professional portfolio

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre provides a professional, supportive and simulation-focused learning environment for healthcare professionals.

Candidates benefit from:

• Experienced newborn resuscitation faculty

• Practical airway and ventilation training

• Newborn resuscitation manikins

• Realistic simulation scenarios

• Small-group practical learning

• Structured instructor feedback

• Modern training facilities

• A supportive learning environment

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Convenient access by road and public transport

• A Manchester training location

Our aim is to help candidates understand the principles behind newborn resuscitation and apply them confidently in a structured manner during a real emergency.

Book Your NLS Course in Manchester

Develop the skills required to assess, ventilate and resuscitate a newborn infant during the critical first minutes after birth.

Book your Resuscitation Council UK Newborn Life Support (NLS) course in Manchester with PLAB Guide Training Centre.

Early booking is strongly recommended to allow sufficient time for registration, receipt of the official NLS manual and completion of the required pre-course preparation.

Full-Day Resuscitation Council UK Course

Develop the practical skills, clinical judgement and confidence required to recognise the deteriorating adult patient, respond to cardiorespiratory arrest and provide effective immediate treatment as part of a resuscitation team.

The Immediate Life Support (ILS) course is a full-day, practical programme designed for healthcare professionals who may be required to respond to acutely unwell patients or cardiac arrest in hospitals, clinics and other healthcare environments.

The course combines structured assessment, airway management, high-quality CPR, defibrillation, teamwork and realistic clinical simulations to help candidates respond safely and effectively during time-critical emergencies.

Who Is This Course For?

The ILS course is particularly suitable for:

• Doctors

• Foundation and specialty trainees

• Nurses and nursing associates

• Paramedics

• Operating Department Practitioners

• Physician Associates

• Advanced Clinical Practitioners

• Dentists and dental professionals where relevant

• Allied healthcare professionals

• Healthcare professionals working in acute, community or independent settings

• Clinicians returning to practice

• International Medical Graduates working or preparing to work within the UK

It is particularly useful for professionals who may be expected to recognise deterioration, initiate resuscitation or participate in a cardiac arrest team.

What You Will Learn

During the course, candidates develop a structured approach to:

• Recognising the deteriorating adult patient

• Performing an ABCDE assessment

• Identifying immediately life-threatening problems

• Calling for appropriate help

• Recognising cardiorespiratory arrest

• Performing high-quality CPR

• Providing basic airway management

• Delivering effective ventilation

• Using an automated or manual defibrillator appropriately

• Recognising shockable and non-shockable cardiac arrest rhythms

• Applying the adult resuscitation algorithm

• Identifying reversible causes of cardiac arrest

• Working effectively within a resuscitation team

• Communicating clearly during emergencies

• Reassessing the patient following interventions

• Providing structured handover and escalation

Recognition of the Deteriorating Patient

A major focus of ILS is recognising deterioration before cardiac arrest occurs.

Candidates practise the ABCDE approach to assess:

• Airway

• Breathing

• Circulation

• Disability

• Exposure

The course encourages candidates to identify problems early, treat life-threatening abnormalities promptly and escalate appropriately.

Airway and Breathing

Candidates develop practical skills in:

• Opening and maintaining the airway

• Basic airway manoeuvres

• Use of simple airway adjuncts

• Bag-mask ventilation

• Oxygen delivery

• Recognition of inadequate ventilation

• Appropriate escalation to more advanced airway support

The emphasis is on providing safe initial airway and breathing support until more experienced assistance becomes available.

CPR and Defibrillation

Candidates practise:

• Recognition of cardiac arrest

• High-quality chest compressions

• Effective ventilation

• Minimising interruptions

• Correct pad placement

• Safe defibrillator operation

• Rhythm assessment

• Shock delivery

• Immediate resumption of CPR

Repeated practical training helps candidates become more confident using defibrillation equipment in realistic resuscitation scenarios.

Cardiac Arrest Rhythms

Candidates learn to recognise and respond appropriately to:

• Ventricular fibrillation

• Pulseless ventricular tachycardia

• Pulseless electrical activity

• Asystole

The course focuses on recognising whether the rhythm is shockable or non-shockable and applying the appropriate immediate management.

Reversible Causes

Candidates review the important reversible causes of cardiac arrest and how they should influence assessment and treatment.

These include the commonly recognised 4 Hs and 4 Ts, with emphasis on identifying and treating reversible pathology alongside ongoing resuscitation.

Teamwork and Communication

Effective resuscitation depends on more than technical knowledge.

Candidates practise:

• Clear allocation of roles

• Closed-loop communication

• Speaking up when concerned

• Maintaining situational awareness

• Prioritising tasks

• Supporting the team leader

• Structured handover

• Reassessment after interventions

The course helps candidates develop confidence functioning as part of a multidisciplinary resuscitation team.

Practical Scenario-Based Training

The ILS course is highly practical.

Candidates participate in clinical scenarios that may include:

• Deteriorating patients

• Respiratory compromise

• Circulatory deterioration

• Cardiac arrest

• Defibrillation

• Airway management

• Team-based resuscitation

Candidates receive constructive feedback throughout the day to help identify strengths and areas requiring improvement.

Course Format

The full-day ILS course combines:

• Focused interactive teaching

• Practical skills stations

• Airway training

• CPR practice

• Defibrillation training

• ABCDE assessment

• Teamwork exercises

• Cardiac arrest simulations

• Continuous instructor feedback

• Formal assessment where required

Candidates should expect an active course with significant practical participation rather than classroom teaching alone.

Pre-Course Preparation

Candidates receive the relevant course information and learning materials before attendance.

Candidates are expected to:

• Read the provided course materials

• Review the adult resuscitation algorithm

• Refresh their basic life support knowledge

• Familiarise themselves with the ABCDE approach

• Complete any required pre-course learning

• Arrive prepared to participate fully in practical teaching

Early booking is strongly recommended to allow sufficient time for preparation.

Assessment

Candidates are assessed throughout the course through:

• Practical participation

• Airway and resuscitation skills

• Clinical scenarios

• Teamwork and communication

• Application of the structured approach

Candidates must demonstrate a safe and effective approach to the deteriorating patient and cardiac arrest.

Booking and attendance do not automatically guarantee successful completion.

Certification

Candidates who successfully meet the required course standards receive the relevant Resuscitation Council UK ILS Provider certification.

Candidates should retain access to their certification and ensure they complete appropriate refresher or recertification training according to their professional and employer requirements.

Why Complete an ILS Course?

Completing ILS training can help healthcare professionals:

• Recognise deterioration earlier

• Respond more confidently to cardiac arrest

• Improve CPR and defibrillation skills

• Develop a structured ABCDE approach

• Communicate more effectively in emergencies

• Work confidently within a resuscitation team

• Strengthen their professional portfolio

• Meet relevant workplace resuscitation-training requirements

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is an established Resuscitation Council UK course centre in Manchester.

Candidates benefit from:

• Experienced and supportive instructors

• Practical, scenario-based learning

• Modern resuscitation equipment

• Realistic adult resuscitation simulations

• Small-group practical teaching

• Structured instructor feedback

• A professional and welcoming training environment

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Convenient access by road and public transport

Our focus is not simply on memorising algorithms. We aim to help candidates understand the clinical reasoning behind the approach so they can respond more confidently when faced with a real emergency.

Full-Day Face-to-Face Training

This booking is for the full-day face-to-face ILS course.

Candidates who prefer a blended-learning format should ensure they select the appropriate course option where available.

Book Your ILS Course in Manchester

Develop the practical skills and confidence required to recognise deterioration, initiate immediate treatment and contribute effectively during adult resuscitation.

Book your full-day Immediate Life Support (ILS) course with PLAB Guide Training Centre in Manchester and gain practical, instructor-led resuscitation training in a supportive clinical environment.

Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid (RQF)

Full Paediatric First Aid Qualification | Two-Day Course

Develop the knowledge, practical skills and confidence required to respond safely and effectively to a wide range of illnesses, injuries and medical emergencies involving infants and children.

The Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid (RQF) is a regulated, full paediatric first aid qualification delivered over two days. It has been specifically designed to meet the paediatric first aid criteria set out within the Department for Education’s Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework.

The course is suitable for early years professionals, registered childminders and others who are responsible for the care and safety of infants and children.

Meeting Early Years Foundation Stage Requirements

The Early Years Foundation Stage framework requires early years providers in England to ensure that at least one person with a current and full paediatric first aid certificate is available on the premises whenever children are present.

Providers should consider:

• The number of children in their care

• The number of staff on duty

• The size and layout of the premises

• Staff working patterns

• Outings and off-site activities

• How quickly a qualified paediatric first aider can respond

Organisations may therefore need more than one trained paediatric first aider to maintain appropriate cover throughout the working day.

Who Is This Course For?

The qualification is particularly suitable for:

• Nursery and preschool practitioners

• Early years educators

• Registered childminders

• Childminding assistants

• Teaching assistants

• School support staff

• Nannies and au pairs

• Children’s activity leaders

• Sports and leisure staff working with children

• Parents, grandparents and carers

• Anyone responsible for the welfare of infants or children

It is also suitable for individuals who have completed a Level 2 or Level 3 childcare qualification and wish to meet relevant Early Years Foundation Stage requirements.

Newly qualified entrants to an early years setting may be required to obtain an appropriate paediatric first aid qualification within the applicable timeframe after starting work.

What You Will Learn

Over the two-day course, learners develop the skills and knowledge needed to manage a wide range of paediatric emergencies.

Course content includes:

• Understanding the role and responsibilities of a paediatric first aider

• Assessing an emergency situation safely

• Protecting the infant, child, first aider and bystanders

• Checking an infant or child’s level of response

• Opening and maintaining the airway

• Assessing breathing

• Managing an unresponsive infant or child

• Placing a child in the recovery position

• Performing infant CPR

• Performing child CPR

• Using an automated external defibrillator appropriately

• Managing choking in infants and children

• Recognising and managing anaphylaxis

• Responding to asthma attacks

• Recognising meningitis

• Managing seizures

• Recognising and responding to shock

• Controlling external bleeding

• Managing wounds and minor injuries

• Responding to burns and scalds

• Managing suspected fractures

• Responding to head injuries

• Managing suspected spinal injuries

• Dealing with poisoning

• Responding to eye injuries

• Managing bites and stings

• Monitoring a child until professional help arrives

• Communicating with parents, carers and emergency services

• Recording and reporting incidents appropriately

Infant and Child CPR

Learners practise the important differences between infant and child resuscitation, including:

• Safe airway positioning

• Initial rescue breaths

• Correct hand and finger placement

• Appropriate chest compression techniques

• Compression depth and rate

• Effective rescue breaths

• Minimising interruptions

• Calling for emergency assistance

• Continuing CPR safely until help arrives

Choking

The course covers the recognition and management of:

• Mild choking

• Severe airway obstruction

• Choking in a conscious infant

• Choking in a conscious child

• An infant or child who becomes unresponsive

• Appropriate post-incident medical assessment

Serious Illness and Medical Emergencies

Learners are taught how to recognise and respond to important childhood medical emergencies, including:

• Anaphylaxis

• Asthma

• Meningitis

• Seizures

• Febrile convulsions

• Diabetic emergencies

• Shock

• Sudden deterioration

The course places strong emphasis on early recognition, prompt escalation and safe monitoring.

Injuries

Training includes the immediate management of:

• External bleeding

• Wounds

• Burns and scalds

• Fractures

• Head injuries

• Suspected spinal injuries

• Eye injuries

• Poisoning

• Bites and stings

Learners are taught how to provide appropriate first aid while avoiding actions that may cause further harm.

Course Format

The qualification is delivered over two days and combines classroom teaching with extensive practical training.

The programme includes:

• Instructor-led teaching

• Practical demonstrations

• Infant CPR practice

• Child CPR practice

• AED training

• Recovery-position practice

• Choking-management exercises

• Bleeding-control techniques

• Injury-management scenarios

• Medical-emergency scenarios

• Group activities

• Practical assessments

• Multiple-choice theory assessments

• Structured instructor feedback

Prefer to spend less time in the classroom? Our blended format leads to the same qualification: six hours of online learning followed by one classroom day, for £75 + VAT. Compare the two formats.

Assessment

Learners are assessed through:

• Seven practical assessments

• Two multiple-choice theory assessments

• Ongoing observation throughout the course

To successfully complete the qualification, candidates must demonstrate that they can safely assess and manage a range of paediatric first aid emergencies.

Booking and attendance do not automatically guarantee successful completion.

Certification

Successful learners receive a personalised Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid (RQF) e-certificate after their results have been submitted and approved, subject to the training centre’s certification arrangements and any required actions.

Printed certificates may be available at an additional cost.

The qualification is normally valid for three years. Learners should complete appropriate requalification training before their certificate expires and undertake regular refresher training to maintain their knowledge and practical skills.

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre provides professional, practical and supportive paediatric first aid training at our Manchester centre.

Learners benefit from:

• Qualified and experienced instructors

• Infant and child resuscitation manikins

• Hands-on CPR and AED training

• Realistic paediatric emergency scenarios

• Modern first aid equipment

• Small-group practical learning

• Structured instructor feedback

• A professional and inclusive learning environment

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Convenient access by road and public transport

• Individual and organisational booking options

Our aim is to ensure that successful learners leave with the practical competence and confidence required to respond appropriately when an infant or child becomes ill or injured.

Book Paediatric First Aid Training in Manchester

Complete a full, regulated paediatric first aid qualification designed to meet Early Years Foundation Stage requirements.

Book your Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid course in Manchester with PLAB Guide Training Centre.

Individual bookings and private group training are available for nurseries, schools, childcare providers, childminders, healthcare organisations and community groups.

Paediatric First Aid: Blended Learning

Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid (RQF) | Online learning + one classroom day

This is the blended format of our full paediatric first aid course. You complete six hours of online learning first, then attend one classroom day at our Levenshulme centre for hands-on practice and all of your assessments. It leads to the same qualification as our two-day classroom course.

The Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid (RQF) is designed to meet the paediatric first aid training requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework in England. It suits nursery practitioners, childminders, nannies, early years staff, teaching assistants and anyone responsible for infants and children.

How blended learning works

• After you book, we enrol you on Qualsafe's online learning platform.
• You complete six hours of online learning there before your classroom day. You cannot attend the classroom day until it is finished.
• You must provide the evidence of completion we ask for before the classroom day.
• The classroom day covers practical skills and all of the assessments, which take place face to face.
• The online learning on its own does not lead to the qualification.
• Blended learning reduces the time you spend in the classroom, not the total training: the full course is still at least 12 hours.

What you will learn

• The role of the paediatric first aider, assessing an emergency and calling for help
• Infant and child CPR and safe use of an AED
• Choking, the unresponsive infant and child, seizures, bleeding and shock
• Fractures, sprains, and head and spinal injuries
• Asthma, allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, meningitis, febrile convulsions and hypoglycaemia
• Burns and scalds, electric shock, poisoning, extremes of temperature, and eye, ear and nose conditions

Assessment and certification

On your classroom day your trainer observes seven practical assessments, and you complete two multiple-choice theory papers. When you pass every assessment you receive the Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid (RQF), valid for three years. Qualsafe recommends annual refresher training.

Your classroom day

Classroom days run from 09:00 to 17:00 on the Wednesday after the first Friday of each month at PLAB Guide Training Centre, First Floor, 308 Moseley Road, Levenshulme, Manchester M19 2LH. The training rooms are on the first and second floors and can be reached by stairs only. Please contact us before booking if you have accessibility, learning-support or practical-assessment needs.

Bring photo ID in the same name as your booking, and wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes.

Price

£75 + VAT. The price includes access to the online learning, tuition, course reference materials, assessment and your Qualsafe certificate.

Prefer to learn everything in the classroom? Compare our two-day course. Booking for a team? Request a group booking.

Questions: firstaid@plabguide.co.uk, 0161 564 6162 or 07447 183842.

Emergency Paediatric First Aid: One Day

Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Emergency Paediatric First Aid (RQF) | One day face to face

A one-day course in what to do when a baby or child is unresponsive, not breathing, choking or bleeding heavily. You spend the day at our Levenshulme centre practising on infant and child manikins, and you are assessed as you go.

This is a separate, shorter qualification from our full Paediatric First Aid course. Early years providers in England must have at least one person with a current full paediatric first aid certificate on the premises and on outings. If your role needs the full certificate, book Paediatric First Aid instead.

What you will learn

• The role of the paediatric first aider, assessing an emergency and calling for help
• Infant and child CPR and safe use of an AED
• The unresponsive infant and child who is breathing, including seizures
• Choking, external bleeding and shock
• Minor injuries such as bites, stings, cuts and nosebleeds

Assessment and certificate

Five practical assessments observed by your trainer and one multiple-choice paper. When you pass you receive the Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Emergency Paediatric First Aid (RQF), valid for three years.

Price and times

£60 + VAT. The price includes tuition, course reference materials, assessment and your Qualsafe certificate. The course runs from 09:00 to 16:00.

Before you book

You must be at least 14 years old and able to kneel at floor level to practise CPR. Bring photo ID and wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes. The training rooms are on the first and second floors and can be reached by stairs only; please contact firstaid@plabguide.co.uk or call 0161 564 6162 before booking if you have any access or learning needs.

PILS and ePILS – Paediatric Immediate Life Support Courses

Develop the knowledge, practical skills and confidence required to recognise and manage a seriously ill or injured infant or child.

The Resuscitation Council UK Paediatric Immediate Life Support course is designed for healthcare professionals who may be required to assess a deteriorating child, provide immediate treatment and manage respiratory or cardiorespiratory arrest until a specialist resuscitation team or more experienced assistance arrives.

Candidates may choose between two approved learning formats:

• PILS: a full-day, face-to-face course

• ePILS: a blended course combining online learning with a half-day, face-to-face practical session

Both routes cover the same essential Paediatric Immediate Life Support principles and lead to a Resuscitation Council UK PILS Provider certificate for successful candidates.

What You Will Learn

During the course, candidates develop the knowledge and skills required to:

• Recognise a seriously ill or deteriorating infant or child

• Apply a structured paediatric ABCDE assessment

• Identify possible causes of clinical deterioration

• Provide appropriate immediate treatment

• Prevent progression to cardiorespiratory arrest

• Recognise respiratory and cardiorespiratory arrest

• Perform effective paediatric basic life support

• Provide bag-mask ventilation

• Use appropriate emergency equipment

• Participate effectively in a paediatric resuscitation team

• Communicate clearly during time-critical emergencies

• Treat a child until a resuscitation team or more experienced assistance arrives

PILS is particularly suitable for healthcare professionals who require skills beyond basic life support but do not require the more comprehensive training provided by the two-day EPALS course.

PILS – Full-Day Face-to-Face Course

The traditional PILS course is delivered as a full day of face-to-face training at our Manchester training centre.

Candidates complete focused teaching, practical skill stations, workshops and realistic paediatric emergency simulations throughout the day.

This format may be particularly suitable for candidates who:

• Prefer direct, instructor-led learning

• Benefit from completing theory and practical training in one setting

• Want more face-to-face contact with instructors

• Prefer a full day of structured teaching and simulation

Candidates must complete all required pre-course preparation and review the course materials before attending.

ePILS – Online Learning and Half-Day Practical Course

The ePILS course is a flexible blended-learning alternative. It combines online pre-course learning with a half-day, face-to-face practical session.

After enrolment, candidates receive access to the required e-learning through the Resuscitation Council UK Learning Management System. The online modules must be completed before attending the face-to-face course.

The half-day practical session focuses on:

• Essential paediatric resuscitation skills

• Recognition and management of the deteriorating child

• Practical airway and ventilation skills

• Teamwork and communication

• Cardiorespiratory arrest simulations

• Continuous practical assessment

The ePILS format allows candidates to complete the theoretical component in their own time before attending the practical training session. Resuscitation Council UK describes ePILS as half a day of e-learning followed by half a day of face-to-face learning.

Immediate Access to ePILS Learning

Candidates booking ePILS are normally provided access to the online learning shortly after successful enrolment and registration.

It is the candidate’s responsibility to:

• Log in to the learning platform promptly

• Check that their access is working

• Complete all required modules

• Complete any required pre-course assessment

• Finish the e-learning before the face-to-face session

Candidates should not leave their online learning until the day before the course.

Who Is the Course For?

PILS and ePILS are suitable for a wide range of professionals who may be involved in caring for infants or children, including:

• Doctors

• Nurses and nursing associates

• Paramedics and ambulance clinicians

• Operating department practitioners

• Health visitors

• School nurses

• Midwives

• Resuscitation officers

• Physiotherapists

• Dental professionals

• Healthcare assistants

• Allied healthcare professionals

• Eligible final-year medical and nursing students

Candidates are responsible for ensuring that the course is appropriate for their role, experience and professional requirements.

Course Assessment

Assessment is continuous throughout the course and includes participation in practical skills, structured patient assessment and simulated paediatric emergencies.

Candidates must demonstrate:

• Safe and structured clinical assessment

• Appropriate initial management

• Effective paediatric resuscitation skills

• Good communication and teamwork

• Satisfactory performance in practical scenarios

Booking or attending the course does not guarantee successful completion.

Certification

Successful candidates completing either PILS or ePILS receive a Resuscitation Council UK PILS Provider certificate.

The certificate is valid for one year from the course completion date and can be downloaded from the candidate’s Resuscitation Council UK LMS account. In-date provider certificates can also be independently verified by candidates and employers.

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is an established and approved Resuscitation Council UK course centre in Manchester.

Candidates benefit from:

• Qualified and supportive instructors

• Realistic paediatric emergency simulations

• Practical, hands-on training

• Structured instructor feedback

• Modern resuscitation equipment

• Small-group teaching

• A professional and supportive learning environment

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Convenient access by train, bus and road

Our aim is to help candidates develop a reliable and confident approach to paediatric deterioration and emergency resuscitation.

Book Your PILS or ePILS Course in Manchester

Choose the format that best suits your learning needs:

PILS: full-day, face-to-face training
ePILS: online learning followed by a half-day, face-to-face practical session

Early booking is strongly recommended to allow sufficient time for enrolment, access to learning materials and completion of all pre-course requirements.

ILS – Immediate Life Support Course

Develop the practical skills and confidence required to recognise a deteriorating adult patient, prevent cardiorespiratory arrest and provide effective immediate treatment during a medical emergency.

The Resuscitation Council UK Immediate Life Support (ILS) course is a practical, one-day programme for healthcare professionals who may be required to respond to deteriorating patients or cardiac arrest while awaiting the arrival of a specialist resuscitation team. The course combines structured assessment, high-quality resuscitation skills and effective teamworking in realistic clinical scenarios.

What You Will Learn

During the ILS course, candidates learn how to:

• Recognise and assess a deteriorating adult patient

• Use the structured ABCDE approach

• Identify and treat immediately life-threatening problems

• Recognise patients at risk of cardiorespiratory arrest

• Call for appropriate senior or emergency assistance

• Perform high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation

• Use an automated external defibrillator or manual defibrillator appropriately

• Deliver simple and effective airway interventions

• Identify potentially reversible causes of cardiac arrest

• Participate effectively as a member of a resuscitation team

• Demonstrate initial leadership during an emergency

• Communicate clearly and safely in time-critical situations

The course places strong emphasis on early recognition, prompt intervention and effective teamwork to improve patient safety and clinical outcomes.

Course Structure

The ILS course is delivered over one day through a combination of:

• Focused interactive teaching

• Practical skill stations

• Airway management practice

• CPR and defibrillation training

• ABCDE assessment workshops

• Cardiac arrest simulations

• Team-based clinical scenarios

• Continuous instructor feedback

Candidates are given opportunities to practise managing realistic emergencies in a supportive learning environment. The focus is on developing a reliable, structured approach that can be applied within hospitals, clinics and other healthcare settings.

Who Is This Course For?

The ILS course is suitable for healthcare professionals who may be expected to respond to adult clinical deterioration or cardiorespiratory arrest, including:

• Doctors and dentists

• Nurses and nursing associates

• Paramedics

• Physician associates

• Operating department practitioners

• Pharmacists working in clinical environments

• Allied healthcare professionals

• Healthcare staff working in acute, community or independent settings

• Eligible healthcare students approaching professional qualification

It is particularly relevant to professionals who are members of a resuscitation team or who may need to provide immediate care before more experienced assistance arrives.

Pre-Course Preparation

Candidates receive access to the relevant course information and learning materials before attending. Adequate preparation is important because the training day is practical and candidates are expected to participate actively in skill stations and simulations.

The current Immediate Life Support manual follows the 2025 UK Resuscitation Guidelines and provides the essential knowledge required to manage adult patients in cardiac arrest before the arrival of a specialist resuscitation team or experienced assistance.

Candidates should review their pre-course materials carefully and arrive familiar with the core principles of:

• Adult basic life support

• ABCDE assessment

• Airway management

• Recognition of cardiac arrest

• Defibrillation

• Resuscitation team roles

Assessment and Certification

Candidates are assessed continuously throughout the course through their participation in practical skills, structured patient assessments and simulated emergency scenarios.

Successful candidates receive a Resuscitation Council UK ILS Provider certificate, valid for one year from the course completion date.

Candidates who require continued certification should complete an appropriate ILS recertification course or repeat the provider course before their certificate expires.

Why Complete an ILS Course?

Clinical deterioration can occur in any healthcare environment. Prompt recognition and early treatment may prevent further deterioration and cardiorespiratory arrest.

Completing the ILS course can help healthcare professionals:

• Respond to emergencies in a calm and structured manner

• Improve their recognition of critically unwell patients

• Strengthen their CPR and defibrillation skills

• Communicate more effectively during emergencies

• Contribute safely to a resuscitation team

• Develop confidence in managing patients until senior help arrives

• Demonstrate relevant resuscitation training for employment and professional development

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is an established and approved Resuscitation Council UK course centre in Manchester.

Our ILS courses are delivered in a professional, practical and supportive environment, with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and realistic simulation.

Candidates benefit from:

• Qualified and supportive ILS instructors

• Practical, scenario-based teaching

• Modern resuscitation training equipment

• Realistic adult patient simulations

• Structured instructor feedback

• Small-group learning opportunities

• A welcoming and professional training environment

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Convenient access by train, bus and road

• A well-equipped Manchester training centre

Our faculty aim to help every candidate understand the clinical reasoning behind each intervention rather than simply memorising an algorithm.

Book Your ILS Course in Manchester

Build the skills and confidence needed to recognise deterioration, initiate immediate treatment and respond effectively during an adult medical emergency.

Book your Resuscitation Council UK ILS course in Manchester with PLAB Guide Training Centre.

Course places are limited. Early booking is recommended to allow sufficient time for enrolment and pre-course preparation.

Basic Life Support and AED for Adults, Children and Infants

Qualsafe Level 3 Award | One-Day Course

Gain the practical skills and confidence required to recognise cardiac arrest, perform effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation and use an automated external defibrillator safely on adults, children and infants.

The Qualsafe Level 3 Award in Basic Life Support and Automated External Defibrillation for Adults, Children and Infants (RQF) is a nationally regulated qualification designed for people who may have a workplace, professional, voluntary or community responsibility to respond to a life-threatening emergency.

The qualification develops the practical competencies required to provide basic life support and automated external defibrillation across all three age groups. Its learning outcomes are informed by Resuscitation Council UK recommendations and expert emergency-care guidance.

Course Overview

This one-day course combines essential theory with extensive hands-on practice. Candidates learn how to assess an emergency safely, recognise an unresponsive casualty, summon appropriate help and provide effective CPR until emergency medical assistance arrives.

The training covers the important differences between adult, child and infant resuscitation, enabling candidates to adapt their approach appropriately according to the casualty’s age and condition.

Candidates also practise using an AED in realistic emergency scenarios and learn how to deliver a shock safely while continuing high-quality CPR.

What You Will Learn

During the course, candidates learn how to:

• Assess an emergency scene safely

• Reduce risks to themselves, the casualty and bystanders

• Check a casualty’s response

• Open and maintain the airway

• Assess normal and abnormal breathing

• Recognise cardiorespiratory arrest

• Contact the emergency services promptly

• Perform high-quality adult CPR

• Perform child CPR

• Perform infant CPR

• Deliver effective rescue breaths

• Use an automated external defibrillator safely

• Follow AED voice and visual instructions

• Position AED pads correctly

• Adapt AED use for children and infants

• Minimise interruptions to chest compressions

• Place a breathing casualty in the recovery position

• Monitor the casualty until professional help arrives

• Respond appropriately if a casualty vomits or regurgitates

• Recognise when CPR should be continued or stopped

• Work calmly and effectively during an emergency

Adult Basic Life Support

Candidates practise a structured approach to an unresponsive adult, including:

• Checking for danger

• Assessing responsiveness

• Opening the airway

• Checking breathing

• Calling 999 or 112

• Starting chest compressions

• Delivering rescue breaths

• Requesting and using an AED

• Continuing CPR until help arrives

Practical training allows candidates to develop the correct compression position, depth, rate and recoil while minimising unnecessary interruptions.

Child and Infant Basic Life Support

The course explains and demonstrates the important differences between adult, child and infant resuscitation.

Candidates practise:

• Safe airway positioning

• Initial rescue breaths

• Child chest-compression techniques

• Infant chest-compression techniques

• Appropriate compression depth

• Effective ventilation

• Calling for emergency assistance

• Continuing CPR safely until help arrives

Automated External Defibrillator Training

Candidates learn how an AED analyses the heart rhythm and provides instructions to deliver a shock when appropriate.

Training includes:

• Switching on the AED

• Preparing the casualty’s chest

• Correct pad placement

• Following the AED prompts

• Ensuring nobody touches the casualty during analysis

• Delivering a shock safely

• Resuming CPR immediately

• Using paediatric pads or settings where available

• Managing practical considerations such as wet chests, excessive chest hair, medication patches and implanted devices

The objective is to prepare learners to use an AED safely and provide basic life support to adults, children and infants during an emergency.

Who Is This Course For?

This qualification is suitable for people who have a particular interest or responsibility to provide basic life support and use an AED in the workplace, during voluntary activities or within the community.

It may be appropriate for:

• Doctors and nurses

• Healthcare assistants

• Dental professionals

• Pharmacists and pharmacy staff

• Allied healthcare professionals

• Care-home and domiciliary-care staff

• School and nursery staff

• Sports coaches and fitness professionals

• Workplace first aiders

• Community and voluntary-sector workers

• Security and public-facing staff

• Parents and carers

• Members of the public seeking accredited resuscitation training

Candidates are responsible for confirming that the qualification meets the requirements of their employer, regulator or professional body.

Course Format

The course is delivered over one day and includes:

• Instructor-led teaching

• Demonstrations

• Adult CPR practice

• Child CPR practice

• Infant CPR practice

• AED training

• Recovery-position practice

• Scenario-based exercises

• Practical assessment

• Constructive instructor feedback

The course is highly practical. Candidates should be prepared to kneel, bend and perform CPR at floor level.

Assessment

Candidates are assessed through practical demonstrations and ongoing observation during the course.

To successfully complete the qualification, candidates must demonstrate that they can:

• Assess an emergency safely

• Recognise an unresponsive casualty

• Perform effective adult CPR

• Perform effective child CPR

• Perform effective infant CPR

• Use an AED safely

• Follow an appropriate emergency sequence

• Demonstrate safe and competent practical performance

Booking or attending the course does not automatically guarantee successful completion.

Certification

Candidates who successfully complete the required learning and assessment receive the relevant Qualsafe Level 3 regulated qualification certificate.

Candidates should retain their certificate as evidence of training and check with their employer or professional body regarding any required refresher-training frequency.

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre provides practical, supportive and professionally delivered emergency-care training at our Manchester centre.

Candidates benefit from:

• Qualified and experienced instructors

• Adult, child and infant resuscitation manikins

• Hands-on AED training

• Realistic emergency scenarios

• Small-group practical learning

• Structured instructor feedback

• A professional and inclusive training environment

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Convenient access by road and public transport

• Training suitable for individuals and organisations

Our aim is to ensure that candidates leave with practical competence and the confidence to take immediate action during a life-threatening emergency.

Book Your BLS and AED Course in Manchester

Learn how to provide effective basic life support and use an AED for casualties of all ages.

Book your Qualsafe Level 3 Basic Life Support and AED course for Adults, Children and Infants with PLAB Guide Training Centre.

Individual and group bookings are available. Training can also be arranged for healthcare organisations, schools, care providers, businesses and community groups.

ILSi – Immediate Life Support Instructor Course

Develop the educational, communication and facilitation skills required to teach Resuscitation Council UK Immediate Life Support and Paediatric Immediate Life Support courses.

The Immediate Life Support Instructor course (ILSi) is a specialist, one-day instructor programme for healthcare professionals who have been identified as having Instructor Potential (IP) while attending an eligible Resuscitation Council UK provider course.

The course prepares candidates to deliver effective, inclusive and structured teaching on:

• Immediate Life Support courses

• Paediatric Immediate Life Support courses

• Practical skills stations

• Clinical simulations

• Scenario-based discussions

• Candidate assessment and feedback

ILSi is not an open-entry course. Candidates must normally have been formally recommended as having Instructor Potential and invited to progress through the Resuscitation Council UK instructor pathway.

What You Will Learn

During the course, candidates develop the skills required to:

• Plan and deliver effective clinical teaching

• Understand how adults learn

• Facilitate practical skills stations

• Teach within simulated clinical scenarios

• Provide clear instructions and demonstrations

• Encourage active candidate participation

• Recognise different learning needs

• Give constructive and supportive feedback

• Assess candidate performance consistently

• Manage candidates who are experiencing difficulty

• Promote effective teamwork and communication

• Maintain a safe and inclusive learning environment

• Understand the organisation and delivery of ILS and PILS courses

• Apply Resuscitation Council UK teaching and assessment principles

Course Structure

The ILSi course is delivered over one full day at an approved Resuscitation Council UK course centre.

The programme includes:

• Interactive teaching sessions

• Educational discussions

• Practical teaching exercises

• Skills-station teaching

• Simulation facilitation

• Candidate assessment practice

• Feedback exercises

• Continuous faculty observation and assessment

Candidates are expected to take an active role throughout the course and deliver an allocated teaching session.

Pre-Course Preparation

Candidates receive teaching resources, assessment documentation and the relevant clinical instructor pocket guide before the course.

Candidates must:

• Read all pre-course materials

• Review their allocated teaching topic

• Prepare to deliver the assigned session

• Refresh their current ILS or PILS knowledge

• Bring any requested documents or materials

• Arrive ready to participate fully in teaching and assessment activities

Resuscitation Council UK states that candidates should receive their preparation materials at least four weeks before the course where possible. Candidates should therefore book promptly after receiving their invitation.

Who Can Attend?

The ILSi course is intended for healthcare professionals who:

• Hold the relevant Resuscitation Council UK provider qualification

• Have been identified as having Instructor Potential

• Have received the appropriate invitation or recommendation

• Have current knowledge and practical competence in ILS or PILS

• Are willing to teach and support other healthcare professionals

• Can communicate effectively in a clinical education environment

A candidate cannot normally enrol solely because they wish to become an instructor. Evidence of Instructor Potential and eligibility may be required before the booking is confirmed.

Assessment

Assessment is continuous throughout the course.

Candidates are assessed on their ability to:

• Deliver clear and structured teaching

• Facilitate practical learning

• Communicate effectively

• Involve and support learners

• Provide constructive feedback

• Assess performance appropriately

• Demonstrate professional behaviour

• Apply the principles taught during the course

Booking and attending the course do not automatically guarantee successful completion.

After the ILSi Course

Following successful completion, candidates enter the next stage of the Resuscitation Council UK instructor pathway.

New Instructor Candidates are normally supported and assessed while teaching on their first two relevant provider courses. This allows them to consolidate the educational skills developed during ILSi and demonstrate that they can teach safely and consistently in the provider-course environment.

Candidates are responsible for arranging suitable teaching opportunities and completing the required instructor-development process within the applicable timeframe.

Certification

Candidates who successfully complete the ILSi course receive the relevant Resuscitation Council UK instructor-course certification through the RCUK Learning Management System.

Completion of the classroom course alone should not be interpreted as confirmation that all stages of the instructor pathway have been completed. Candidates must also satisfy any required supervised teaching and assessment requirements.

Why Complete the ILSi Course?

The ILSi course can help experienced healthcare professionals:

• Develop formal clinical teaching skills

• Improve confidence when facilitating simulations

• Learn how to assess candidates fairly

• Deliver effective feedback

• Contribute to ILS and PILS training

• Support safer resuscitation practice

• Join a recognised instructor-development pathway

• Strengthen their educational and professional portfolio

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

PLAB Guide Training Centre is an established and approved Resuscitation Council UK course centre in Manchester.

Candidates benefit from:

• Experienced and supportive instructor faculty

• Structured teaching practice

• Realistic simulation facilities

• Practical feedback from experienced educators

• Modern resuscitation training equipment

• A professional and inclusive learning environment

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Convenient access by road and public transport

Our aim is to help future instructors develop the confidence, educational judgement and practical teaching skills required to support healthcare professionals effectively.

Book Your ILSi Course in Manchester

Candidates must hold the required Instructor Potential nomination or invitation before attending.

Early booking is strongly recommended to allow sufficient time to receive the course materials, prepare the allocated teaching session and complete all pre-course requirements.

ALS Preparation Course

Build Confidence Before Your Official ALS Course

Feeling anxious, overwhelmed or underprepared for Advanced Life Support training?

Our ALS Preparation Course is a practical, supportive programme designed to help healthcare professionals understand the ALS approach, strengthen their resuscitation skills and attend their official Resuscitation Council UK ALS course with greater confidence.

This is particularly valuable for candidates who understand the theory but feel shaky when managing a simulated cardiac arrest, interpreting rhythms, choosing treatments, leading a team or communicating under pressure.

Important Course Status

This is an independent preparation course developed and delivered by PLAB Guide Training Centre.

It is:

• Not an official Resuscitation Council UK course

• Not approved, accredited or certified by RCUK

• Not a substitute for the official RCUK ALS Provider course

• Not an ALS qualification

• Not able to award an RCUK ALS certificate

• Not able to guarantee an Instructor Potential nomination

Its purpose is to prepare candidates for their official course, clinical practice and relevant postgraduate examinations.

Who Is This Course For?

The course is designed for healthcare professionals who:

• Feel anxious about attending an official ALS course

• Have previously found ALS algorithms overwhelming

• Understand the theory but lack practical confidence

• Feel shaky when leading cardiac arrest scenarios

• Struggle with rhythm recognition or treatment decisions

• Want more practice before formal assessment

• Are worried about failing their official ALS course

• Have been away from acute clinical practice

• Want to refresh their advanced resuscitation knowledge

• Are preparing for MRCEM OSCE, FRCEM OSCE or similar examinations

• Want to improve leadership and team communication

• Hope to demonstrate strong performance and be considered for Instructor Potential

• Prefer to practise in a supportive environment before being formally assessed

No previous ALS qualification is required, although candidates should have an appropriate healthcare background and basic resuscitation knowledge.

What You Will Learn

The course helps candidates develop a clear and structured approach to:

• Recognising the deteriorating adult patient

• Using the ABCDE assessment

• Identifying and treating life-threatening problems

• Recognising cardiorespiratory arrest

• Delivering high-quality CPR

• Using a manual defibrillator safely

• Recognising shockable and non-shockable rhythms

• Managing ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia

• Managing pulseless electrical activity and asystole

• Understanding the advanced life support algorithm

• Identifying reversible causes of cardiac arrest

• Using the 4 Hs and 4 Ts effectively

• Understanding appropriate emergency medications

• Managing peri-arrest arrhythmias

• Planning safe post-resuscitation care

• Communicating effectively during emergencies

• Leading and participating in a resuscitation team

• Structuring answers for OSCE-style resuscitation stations

• Performing confidently during simulated assessments

Practical, Scenario-Based Training

This is not simply a lecture or algorithm-review session.

Candidates participate in realistic scenarios that allow them to practise:

• Initial assessment and recognition of cardiac arrest

• Calling for help and allocating team roles

• CPR quality and interruption control

• Rhythm interpretation

• Safe defibrillation

• Medication planning

• Identification of reversible causes

• Reassessment after each intervention

• Team leadership

• Closed-loop communication

• Structured handover

• Post-resuscitation management

Scenarios are followed by constructive feedback so candidates can understand what went well, identify weaknesses and repeat key elements with greater confidence.

Preparation for MRCEM and FRCEM OSCEs

The course is also suitable for candidates preparing for postgraduate emergency medicine examinations.

Candidates can practise how to:

• Verbalise a safe resuscitation approach

• Lead a time-critical emergency station

• Interpret cardiac rhythms

• Explain treatment priorities

• Delegate tasks appropriately

• Communicate with the resuscitation team

• Demonstrate leadership without losing clinical structure

• Summarise ongoing management and disposition

The course does not reproduce confidential examination content and does not guarantee success in any postgraduate examination.

Preparing for Instructor Potential

Candidates hoping to be considered for Instructor Potential may use the course to strengthen:

• Clinical knowledge

• Algorithm familiarity

• Practical confidence

• Leadership

• Communication

• Team awareness

• Receptiveness to feedback

• Professional behaviour

Instructor Potential is awarded only through the relevant official provider-course process. Attendance at this preparation course does not guarantee nomination or influence any independent RCUK faculty decision.

Our Pass Confidence Guarantee

We are confident in the value of our preparation programme.

A candidate who completes our ALS Preparation Course and subsequently fails an eligible official RCUK ALS Provider course may apply for a refund of the ALS Preparation Course tuition fee, provided that:

• The official ALS course is taken within three months of completing our preparation course

• The candidate attended the full preparation course

• All required preparatory activities were completed

• The candidate participated fully in teaching and simulations

• The candidate attended and completed the official ALS course

• Valid documentary evidence of the unsuccessful official ALS result is supplied

• All other guarantee conditions are satisfied

The guarantee applies only to the fee paid directly for our ALS Preparation Course. It does not cover the cost of the official ALS course, travel, accommodation, study materials, loss of earnings or any other associated expense.

Why Train With PLAB Guide Training Centre?

Candidates benefit from:

• Experienced resuscitation educators

• A supportive, non-judgemental environment

• Realistic cardiac arrest simulations

• Manual-defibrillation practice

• Rhythm-recognition training

• Repeated leadership opportunities

• Individualised feedback

• OSCE-focused teaching where relevant

• Modern resuscitation equipment

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• A convenient Manchester location

Our focus is to help candidates move from feeling uncertain and overwhelmed to approaching advanced resuscitation in a calm, systematic and clinically safe manner.

Attend Your Official ALS Course With Confidence

Do not wait until formal assessment to discover which areas require improvement.

Practise the algorithms, develop your leadership and work through realistic scenarios before attending your official ALS Provider course.

Book the ALS Preparation Course at PLAB Guide Training Centre in Manchester and prepare with confidence.

Medical Appraisal Service for Doctors

Professional, Supportive and Confidential Appraisal

Complete your medical appraisal with structured guidance, a supportive discussion and clear documentation for your professional development and revalidation portfolio.

PLAB Guide Training Centre’s Medical Appraisal Service is designed for licensed doctors who require an independent, professional appraisal of their medical practice. The service provides an opportunity to review your work, reflect on your achievements and challenges, discuss your supporting information and agree a meaningful Personal Development Plan for the year ahead.

The appraisal is intended to be constructive and developmental rather than intimidating. Our aim is to help you present your professional practice clearly, identify any gaps in your portfolio and approach the appraisal process with confidence.

Who Is This Service For?

The service may be suitable for:

• Doctors without a connection to a designated body

• Doctors working independently or in private practice

• Locum doctors

• Doctors working through agencies

• Doctors undertaking portfolio careers

• Doctors working overseas while maintaining a UK licence

• International medical graduates

• Doctors returning to UK clinical practice

• Doctors undertaking a low volume of UK medical work

• Doctors whose practice includes several organisations or professional roles

• Doctors who require support organising their appraisal evidence

• Doctors seeking a reflective and professionally supportive appraisal experience

All licensed doctors are required to participate in revalidation. The process they must follow depends on whether they are connected to a designated body, a responsible officer or a suitable person.

Important Eligibility Information

Before booking an independent appraisal, you must check your GMC revalidation connection.

Where a doctor has a responsible officer through a designated body, the GMC states that the doctor must normally use the appraisal system provided by that designated body unless the responsible officer agrees to an alternative arrangement.

You should obtain written confirmation from your responsible officer before booking an independent appraisal where this applies.

Doctors without a designated-body connection may have additional requirements and should ensure that the chosen appraisal arrangements are suitable for their individual GMC revalidation pathway.

What Is Included?

Your appraisal service may include:

• Initial review of your appraisal circumstances

• Guidance on the evidence required

• Review of your submitted appraisal portfolio

• Identification of missing or incomplete supporting information

• A confidential appraisal meeting with an experienced medical appraiser

• Reflection on your full scope of practice

• Review of continuing professional development

• Discussion of quality-improvement activity

• Review of significant events

• Discussion of complaints and compliments

• Review of patient and colleague feedback, where applicable

• Discussion of health, wellbeing and professional sustainability

• Review of your previous Personal Development Plan

• Agreement of a new Personal Development Plan

• Completion of the relevant appraisal summary documentation

• Opportunity to review the written appraisal summary for factual accuracy

• Post-appraisal guidance where further evidence or action is required

The appraisal discussion should cover the doctor’s whole scope of practice, including clinical and non-clinical work, NHS and independent work, voluntary roles, teaching, research, leadership and management responsibilities.

Preparing Your Appraisal Portfolio

You will normally be asked to provide information covering your work since your previous appraisal, including:

• Your current scope of practice

• Places and organisations where you have worked

• Clinical and non-clinical professional roles

• Continuing professional development

• Quality-improvement activities

• Significant events

• Complaints and compliments

• Patient feedback, where required

• Colleague feedback, where required

• Health and probity declarations

• Evidence of reflection

• Your previous appraisal summary

• Progress against your previous Personal Development Plan

• Professional achievements and challenges

• Proposed development objectives

The supporting information should be relevant, proportionate and reflective of the work you actually undertake.

Your Appraisal Meeting

The appraisal meeting is a confidential, structured and supportive professional discussion.

During the meeting, you and your appraiser will explore:

• Your professional roles and responsibilities

• Changes in your practice

• Achievements since your previous appraisal

• Challenges or barriers affecting your work

• Learning from your supporting information

• Your professional wellbeing

• Development needs

• Career goals

• Plans for maintaining and improving patient care

Medical appraisal is intended to support professional development and help doctors provide high-quality care. NHS England’s Medical Appraisal Guide describes appraisal as a consistent and proportionate process supporting doctors in providing the best professional care for patients.

Personal Development Plan

As part of the appraisal process, you will agree a focused Personal Development Plan for the next appraisal period.

Your objectives should be:

• Relevant to your professional roles

• Realistic and achievable

• Linked to your learning or development needs

• Appropriate to your scope of practice

• Capable of being reviewed at your next appraisal

The plan may include clinical learning, teaching, leadership, quality improvement, career development or professional wellbeing objectives.

Doctors Working Across Several Organisations

Doctors working in multiple settings must include information from across their entire professional practice.

This may include:

• NHS employment

• Private or independent practice

• Agency and locum work

• Remote consultations

• Overseas clinical work

• Teaching and examining

• Research

• Management and leadership

• Medico-legal work

• Voluntary medical roles

Relevant governance information may also need to be obtained from organisations where the doctor has worked. Responsible officers are expected to consider appropriate clinical governance information when making revalidation recommendations.

Support for International Medical Graduates

PLAB Guide Training Centre has extensive experience supporting international medical graduates as they progress through UK medical practice.

We understand that doctors who qualified overseas may be unfamiliar with:

• The UK appraisal structure

• GMC revalidation terminology

• Reflective writing

• Quality-improvement evidence

• Personal Development Plans

• Patient and colleague feedback

• Whole-scope-of-practice declarations

• Expectations around complaints and significant events

• Differences between appraisal and revalidation

Our approach is respectful, supportive and focused on helping you understand the process while maintaining the professional independence of the appraisal.

Appraisal and Revalidation Are Different

Medical appraisal supports the revalidation process, but an appraisal alone does not revalidate a doctor.

A revalidation recommendation is made through the doctor’s responsible officer, suitable person or the relevant GMC process, depending on the doctor’s connection status.

Booking this service does not guarantee:

• A positive revalidation recommendation

• Acceptance of the appraisal by a designated body

• GMC revalidation

• Continuation of a licence to practise

• Resolution of outstanding regulatory or employment matters

Doctors remain responsible for confirming that the appraisal arrangement is appropriate for their individual circumstances.

Complex Appraisal Circumstances

Please contact us before booking where your circumstances include:

• A current or previous GMC investigation

• Fitness-to-practise proceedings

• Conditions or restrictions on your registration

• Suspension from practice

• Employer investigations

• Disciplinary proceedings

• Significant unresolved complaints

• Criminal proceedings or convictions

• Extended absence from medical practice

• Significant gaps in supporting information

• Several missed appraisals

• Approaching revalidation with incomplete evidence

• Uncertainty regarding your designated-body connection

Additional review time, documentation or specialist support may be required before an appraisal can be accepted.

Why Choose PLAB Guide Training Centre?

Doctors booking through PLAB Guide Training Centre benefit from:

• A supportive and non-judgemental approach

• Experience working with international medical graduates

• Clear guidance before the appraisal

• Structured portfolio review

• Confidential professional discussion

• Flexible online appointment options

• Face-to-face appointments in Manchester where available

• Support understanding appraisal and revalidation terminology

• A convenient Manchester training centre

• Limited free on-site parking, plus free on-street parking nearby (first come, first served)

• Access to wider professional-development and clinical-training opportunities

How the Booking Process Works

1. Book Your Appraisal

Select the available appraisal option and provide accurate information about your current professional circumstances.

2. Eligibility Review

We will review your connection status and confirm whether any further information or responsible-officer approval is required.

3. Submit Your Portfolio

You will receive instructions explaining which documents and supporting information to provide.

4. Portfolio Review

Your submitted information will be reviewed before the meeting. You may be asked to provide clarification or additional evidence.

5. Attend Your Appraisal

Meet your appraiser online or in person, depending on the service selected.

6. Review the Summary

Following the meeting, the appraisal documentation will be prepared and you will have an opportunity to check it for factual accuracy before completion.

Book Your Medical Appraisal

Arrange a professional and supportive medical appraisal with PLAB Guide Training Centre.

Please ensure that:

• You understand your GMC connection status

• You have permission from your responsible officer where required

• Your appraisal portfolio is sufficiently complete

• You disclose any complex regulatory or employment circumstances before booking

• You provide enough time for portfolio review and completion of the appraisal process

Early booking is recommended, particularly where you have an approaching appraisal, annual return or revalidation deadline.