ICTQual Level 1 Award in First Aid
The ICTQual Level 1 Award in First Aid is a practical entry-level qualification designed to provide learners with the essential knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively in emergency situations. First aid is a vital life skill, and this course ensures that learners are equipped to deliver immediate and appropriate care until professional medical support arrives.
Throughout this programme, learners will gain a solid understanding of the principles of first aid, including how to assess an incident, ensure personal and bystander safety, and provide basic but critical assistance in common medical emergencies. Key areas covered include managing minor injuries, bleeding, burns, and shock, as well as recognising the signs of serious conditions such as cardiac arrest, choking, and seizures.
The qualification also introduces learners to the correct use of first aid equipment and reinforces the importance of maintaining calm, clear communication in high-pressure situations. By focusing on both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice, the course helps learners build confidence in applying first aid techniques in real-life scenarios.
The ICTQual Level 1 Award in First Aid is suitable for individuals of all backgrounds, whether they are seeking to improve personal safety skills, enhance employability, or take the first step towards a career in health, social care, or emergency response. Upon completion, learners will not only hold a recognised qualification but also contribute to creating safer workplaces, communities, and everyday environments.
Level 1 Award in First Aid
The ICTQual Level 1 Award in First Aid is an entry-level qualification designed to be accessible to a wide range of learners. While the course has no complex academic or professional prerequisites, there are some essential requirements to ensure learners can participate effectively and gain maximum benefit from the training.
This qualification, the ICTQual Level 1 Award , consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Introduction to First Aid
- Assessment of the Scene and Casualty
- Basic Life Support (BLS) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
- Management of Breathing Emergencies
- Management of Circulatory Emergencies
- Management of Minor Injuries and Illnesses
Here are the learning outcomes:
Introduction to First Aid
- Gain an understanding of the role and significance of first aid in both daily life and workplace settings.
- Recognise how early intervention can prevent minor situations from becoming more serious emergencies.
- Identify the responsibilities of a first aider, including safeguarding themselves, supporting the casualty, and protecting others present.
- Understand legal and ethical considerations, such as consent, confidentiality, and role limitations.
- Learn the importance of accurate record-keeping and incident reporting.
- Develop techniques to remain calm, organised, and confident when dealing with high-pressure situations.
Assessment of the Scene and Casualty
- Learn how to approach an incident safely and ensure the area is secure before providing assistance.
- Identify common hazards such as fire, traffic, or hazardous substances, and understand how to minimise risks.
- Develop the ability to carry out a structured scene survey and recognise potential dangers.
- Practise assessing a casualty’s condition, including their level of consciousness, breathing, and circulation.
- Recognise when to call for professional help and learn how to communicate essential details clearly and effectively.
Basic Life Support (BLS) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
- Understand the chain of survival and its role in emergency care.
- Practise CPR techniques for adults, children, and infants, noting the differences for each age group.
- Learn how to maintain an open airway and deliver effective chest compressions and rescue breaths.
- Gain familiarity with the function and correct use of an automated external defibrillator (AED).
- Understand how defibrillation supports survival in cases of cardiac arrest.
Management of Breathing Emergencies
- Identify the signs and symptoms of breathing difficulties such as choking, asthma, allergic reactions, and hyperventilation.
- Learn step-by-step techniques for assisting someone who is choking, including back blows and abdominal thrusts.
- Understand how to provide support during asthma attacks or allergic reactions, including the use of inhalers and auto-injectors where appropriate.
- Build confidence in monitoring a casualty’s condition and offering reassurance while awaiting professional medical care.
Management of Circulatory Emergencies
- Gain knowledge of circulatory emergencies such as shock, heart attack, and stroke.
- Learn how to recognise early signs and symptoms of these conditions.
- Practise the correct responses, including positioning the casualty and providing reassurance.
- Develop skills in monitoring and recording vital signs while waiting for medical assistance.
- Understand how quick and effective action can reduce risks and improve recovery outcomes.
Management of Minor Injuries and Illnesses
- Recognise and treat common minor injuries such as cuts, grazes, burns, bruises, and sprains.
- Learn how to clean wounds, apply dressings, and bandage injuries to prevent infection and aid healing.
- Understand how to manage urgent but less severe conditions such as nosebleeds, fainting, and mild allergic reactions.
- Gain awareness of the correct use of basic first aid equipment and supplies.
- Appreciate the importance of preparation and having the right resources available to respond effectively.
Completing the ICTQual Level 1 Award in First Aid gives learners a strong foundation in essential life-saving skills. While this course focuses on the basics of responding to emergencies, it also acts as a valuable stepping stone for further training and development. Learners who complete this award can explore a variety of progression routes, ranging from higher-level qualifications to sector-specific training. In addition to enhancing employability, it also contributes to personal growth and continuous professional development, ensuring learners remain confident and prepared in both everyday and workplace situations.
Progression to Higher-Level First Aid Qualifications
- Learners can advance to more comprehensive courses that build on the foundation gained at Level 1.
- Higher-level training introduces advanced techniques, longer response procedures, and specialised modules for different environments.
- These courses are particularly useful for those wishing to take on greater responsibility in workplaces, schools, or community roles.
Pathways into Health and Safety Training
- Completing this award provides a strong starting point for further study in workplace health and safety.
- Progression to broader health and safety qualifications enables learners to expand their knowledge beyond immediate care, covering risk prevention and safe practices in a range of industries.
- Such training is especially valuable for those working in settings where legal compliance and safe operations are essential.
Opportunities in Care and Support Sectors
- Learners may use this qualification as a stepping stone into the care, education, or community support sectors.
- First aid knowledge complements roles in childcare, elderly care, and social support, where responding to everyday health concerns is often required.
- The award also demonstrates responsibility and readiness to employers within these areas.
Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
- For those already employed, this award contributes to ongoing professional development by enhancing workplace readiness.
- Many employers encourage staff to refresh or update their skills regularly, and this award can form part of that development plan.
- Continuous training also ensures learners stay confident and capable in responding to unexpected incidents.
Specialist Training Opportunities
- After completing Level 1, learners may wish to pursue training in niche areas such as paediatric first aid, outdoor and sports-related care, or emergency response for specific industries.
- Specialist training equips individuals with the ability to respond effectively in unique environments and contexts.
- These pathways are particularly suited for learners seeking to align their skills with their career goals or personal interests.
