Outdoor First Aid Reviews
36 reviews for ODFA 2 Day Reviews
36 reviews for ODFA 2 Day Reviews
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Testimonials often seem to be implausible, however, I can honestly say that this two-day course was very informative, with no pressure of formal exams, although it was clear that we were being assessed. There were many real-life stories that brought the training alive and into reality. I suffer from high levels of anxiety and this causes eczema, however, I can honestly say this is the first time in a long time that the flare-ups that I am so used to having never appeared as I was feeling so reassured by this training. I would definitely recommend this course to anyone regardless of their employment. The only downside to this two-day course is the time disappears so quickly and before you realise it you are saying goodbye.
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The first aid training with ELST was fantastic. Andy and his team are engaging and hilarious while also being incredibly professional.
This is a very hands on, practical training with not an acronym or PowerPoint in site. As a team, we all agreed ELST is by far the best first aid training we have ever had and most importantly we’ve all retained the information and feel confident that we would know what to do in an emergency situation. I highly recommend ELST to anyone looking to do their first aid training and as an organisation we will be returning to Andy in three years to renew it.
Thank you so much Andy from the Project Rewild team. -
This is by far the best first aid training out there.
I myself come from an emergency services background and found it to be a very engaging and interactive course, that taught first aid in an exciting and refreshing way.
Highly recommend! -
The best thing about this course and Andy and Saun, is that they know what actually happens in an emergency and perhaps more importantly what happens in the minds of those who arrive at the scene. Trying to remember a million rules at that point is not going to happen, so being given permission and the confidence to exercise one’s own initiative alongside sensible observations and techniques, makes perfect COMMON SENSE. I now know how to recognise which emergency is which, how to deal with them, how to know when it’s time to just hold someone’s hand AND…. how to stop someone snoring. AWESOME!…. And no, not with an axe.
Worth noting: I also learnt the simplest technique to save a life that most first aiders haven’t got a clue about, which they SERIOUSLY SHOULD. So next time you happen to be hanging from a cliff edge, make sure you call an ELST first aider you will have a much higher survival rate.
Thanks Gents, see you in 3 years
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Absolutely fantastic outdoor first aid course. Andy and Shaun are amazing teachers. They have such a wealth of experience between them. They deliver the course in a way that is both fun and informative. It’s the second time I have booked with elst and I am already looking forward to my next renewal! The outdoor scenarios make the course very interesting, there will not be a dull moment! Don’t hesitate and book today!
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Brilliant training course. Andy and Shaun share their fantastic knowledge of real life situations and the course really brings it all to life. Both really encouraging and get the group motiviated and working together. I was really impressed with how they consider not only the physical health of the patient but the mental health of all those involved in a First Aid incident. Thanks very much, Neil. Secondary School Pastoral Support, DofE Coordinator, Outdoor Wilderness Practioner.
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I have just finished the 2 day Outdoor First Aid course…. what can I say…Andy & Shaun were brilliant! Despite having done many first aid courses through my work in outdoor ed and teaching, this is the first time I have come away feeling a level of confidence that I would have a good idea of what to do & be able to help, rather than feeling a bit overwhelmed with all that I don’t know and a kind of fear about not remembering everything or getting it wrong. The 2 days absolutely highlighted the importance of keeping it simple, and even touched on the importance of simple breathing techniques to help you keep calm & think more clearly. Andy clearly has an incredible amount of experience & knowledge, and his use of examples of real life situations, his own reactions, the people he has learned from, are not only fascinating, but also highlight the importance of doing your best – it could save a life. I also found it fascinating to understand more about how first aid can be a huge help to the emergency services and the incredible knowledge & skill they have. The outdoor scenarios were highly engaging & thought provoking – Sean’s acting really drew me in to feel as close to the real thing as they could be. Both Andy & Shaun talked refreshingly openly about the importance of looking after your own mental health generally, the value in sharing with others, in particular in relation to experiencing a personal or first aid related trauma. I highly HIGHLY recommend this course to anyone working with people in the outdoors and or anyone keen to feel as confident as you can be with your ability to get involved with, deal with, offer help in a first aid situation. Thank you so much.
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This is my fourth 2-Day Outdoor First Aid course, but by far the best. Andy and Shaun’s approach took the fear out of ‘doing something wrong’ by focussing on what can practically be achieved in various situations. On previous courses, participants were separated into groups, with one member of the group playing victim whilst the others try to work out what the problem is. Since we are not expert actors, this isn’t always easy. This course also separates participants into groups, but our victim is Shaun, who with appropriate makeup, props and expertise, is able to portray various life-threatening injuries and health problems with much better accuracy. It almost felt like the real thing, rather than a simulation. It is hard to illustrate protruding bones and catastrophic blood loss, but Shaun managed it. Not only did I learn more on this course than on previous ones, I enjoyed it more because it was fun. Andy and Shaun are both characters and their anecdotes concerning their own First Aid experiences added authenticity to their teaching. If I am still walk-leading in my 70’s than these are the guys I will be seeing again in three years’ time.
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I’ve completed first aid training for our multiple businesses a number of times in the past but this course really bought the teaching home with the interactive way Shaun and Andy teach. We run a couple of garages plus a motocross track and a diverse range of accidents were covered. At motocross it’s not uncommon to get injuries or potentially life threatening situations like broken femer so going through the role play situations was really helpful to re-create that element of pressure and stress you feel when someone is howling in pain or bleeding and you need to think and act fast and remember what you’ve learnt. I really enjoyed the two days and feel more confident in dealing with situations now.
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This is my fourth 2-Day Outdoor First Aid course, but by far the best. Andy and Shaun’s approach took the fear out of ‘doing something wrong’ by focussing on what can practically be achieved in various situations. On previous courses, participants were separated into groups, with one member of the group playing victim whilst the others try to work out what the problem is. Since we are not expert actors, this isn’t always easy. This course also separates participants into groups, but our victim is Instructor Shaun, who with appropriate makeup, props and acting expertise, is able to portray various life-threatening injuries and health problems with much better accuracy. It almost felt like the real thing, rather than a simulation. It is hard to illustrate protruding bones and catastrophic blood loss, but Shaun managed it. Not only did I learn more on this course than on previous ones, I enjoyed it more because it was fun. Andy and Shaun are both characters and their anecdotes concerning their own First Aid experiences added authenticity to their teaching. If I am still walk-leading in my 70’s then these are the guys I will be seeing again in three years’ time.
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Honestly the best First Aid Course that I’ve done over the years. Very informative and interesting, and Andy clearly has extensive knowledge and experience behind him. Also efficient sending certificates over once the course waw completed. Lovely guy, and a friendly, open atmosphere over the course if the 2 days. Would definitely recommend.
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By far and away the best course I’ve ever attended. Andy & Shaun’s approach is both personal & effective. Their teaching style really engages everyone and by making it not just hands on but very real, you can’t help but throw yourself in & gain confidence in your own abilities. With not only no fear of getting it wrong but actually so encouraging to learn from your mistakes.
Can’t recommend them or their courses enough.
The whole team, from admin to delivery of the course is 1st class.
Thanks guys! -
Fresh from the course and wow what a fantastic one it was. Hardly any classroom-based learning all outside and hands on what is great for me being hands on learner and dyslexic. Even better it’s an ongoing assessment so now need to worry about the dreaded test wanting us to recite numbers, as Andy and Shaun said on the course when if you need to use these skills with adrenaline and stress you are not going to remember.
Having done a few first aid courses, my first outdoor I left feeling confident with what I have learned, and it is staying in. I can say I am looking forward to seeing you guys for the next one.
Give Shaun an Oscar for his acting! And Andy a colour chart for the shade or orange -
Brilliant. Intuitive. Refreshing. Engaging. FUN!
I’ve just returned from a 2-day Outdoor Emergency First Aid course with Andy Sullivan. I could list the numerous life-saving techniques I have learnt in the last 2 days, but the most important takeaway is Andy’s ability to inspire confidence in your abilities. His evidence-based approach instils the belief that just being on the scene and carrying out the basics could be the difference between life or death for someone. That confidence in your own abilities is vital in these situations.
No complex numbers or particular order of how to do things, Andy goes into the biology of what we do giving you a far better understanding of why we do it.
I’ve been on first aid courses before, which are primarily PowerPoint-based with some mannequin work, but this was next level. Real, acted-out scenarios with prosthetics and make-up and discussions after each scenario about how the teams tackled it. This really allows you to understand potential situations far more accurately than just looking at a slide.
Andy has years of real-life experience and the outdoor environment we trained in added to the authenticity and memorability of the situations we encountered. He tells of his own experiences to make everything relatable.
He is genuinely a top guy with a natural aptitude for passing on his knowledge and skillsets.
It was also a great team bonding exercise for my colleagues and me; everyone had a fantastic time.
(I’m sure the sunshine helped as well!)I cannot recommend this course highly enough. It was the best course I’ve attended.
Thanks, Andy.
All the best!
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This without a doubt is the best first aid course I have ever been on.
A bit about my background, I own a small outdoor adventure business in Cornwall, I have been in the outdoor pursuits industry for over 15 years where I have always had to have up to date first aid training, on top of this I am a qualified Rescue diver, Beach Lifeguard, Support Worker and Health Care assistant, as such I have a great background knowledge in first aid and health care.
For years first aid courses have almost just been a tick in the box for insurance reasons and I have not felt that I have learnt anything new by the end of the training however, after this course I walked away feeling even more confident in my abilities especially after being given multiple different and realistic first aid scenarios to deal with, which involved some amazing acting, props, makeup, fake blood and a real sense of urgency.
I also learnt some new skills and about some extremely useful first aid equipment that I will be adding to my kits.As well as learning first aid we were also taught skills and given advice on how to deal with our own mental health before and after dealing with a traumatic event, which is something that I don’t believe has ever been covered on any of my previous first aid courses over the years, but is actually a very important lesson.
Andy the course director is an awesome guy, very friendly and approachable, an excellent teacher and his vast experience is obvious. The venue was stunning with great access near the A30 and the owner of the venue Dave is equally awesome.
If you need first aid training this is the company to go with and I will always use them myself and will always highly recommend them to colleagues, friends and family.
Trevone Bay Adventures – Cornwall
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Well I have to agree with all the previous reviews. 1st class trainers in a great format, but then icing on the cake was the superb stooging by Shaun. Very realistic and so much more interactive than practicing on a colleague or manakin.
The knowledge that they both bring to the table was invaluable. I will most definitely be recommending to our Police cadet co-ordinators and I will be back.
Thank you both for making it enjoyable, memorable and informative.
Best regards Julia – Met Police
Lauren Jasper –
Hello,
I hope you are well. Firstly, thank you for organising the course EFAW+F course with Cornwall Wildlife Trust.
Secondly, I thought the course was fantastic! A few key points below:
1. Andy had lots of real-life first responder experience and he communicated the content very clearly. He managed to make the whole course engaging and I really enjoyed the two days.
2. The course was very practical (no power point or acronyms) and hands on, which I found a great way to learn.
3. I had never participated in a first aid course before, and after the 2 days I feel confident I could give someone first aid, if needed.
4. Andy used lots of training equipment (demo defibrillator, demo EpiPen, first aid kit with various equipment). As I had never used this equipment before, this has helped me to learn how to use the tools and provided me with further confidence.
5. We split into teams and went through lots of real-life scenarios, these were great for putting our knowledge to use and thinking about problem solving.
6. Andy gave insights into the best equipment to use, as well as made us think about what first aid equipment might be useful for our jobs.
Cornwall Wildlife Trust
Cornelia –
Andy’s outdoor first aid course was amazing! The set-up and Andy’s teaching style were super conducive to learning and you were learning even when you didn’t realise that you were. It was a lot less of an info dump compared to the lifeguard first aid I did and at the same time I learnt a lot more and feel infinitely more confident about actually giving first aid in practice. I now feel a lot more comfortable both on a personal and professional level knowing that I could safeguard both my colleagues, members of the public I’m responsible for at work, but also my family.
Being thrown into the scenarios and doing a lot of practical techniques has made me feel so much more confident. I’m not going to give first aid perfectly, but I would definitely give a lot of the techniques a go (whereas before I would have been too scared of getting them wrong to want to actually do them on someone) and I think I would do the key things to help prolong someone’s life until the emergency services arrive. I also feel that my knowledge of my first aid equipment is greatly improved. I think it was an exceptionally good first aid and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it. I hope to do the refresher in a few years with Andy when the time comes.
Cornwall Wildlife Trust
Julia Carter –
Well I have to agree with all the previous reviews. 1st class trainers in a great format, but then icing on the cake was the superb stooging by Shaun. Very realistic and so much more interactive than practicing on a colleague or manakin.
The knowledge that they both bring to the table was invaluable. I will most definitely be recommending to our Police cadet co-ordinators and I will be back.
Thank you both for making it enjoyable, memorable and informative.
Best regards Julia – Met Police
Sam Martinhull –
This without a doubt is the best first aid course I have ever been on.
A bit about my background, I own a small outdoor adventure business in Cornwall, I have been in the outdoor pursuits industry for over 15 years where I have always had to have up to date first aid training, on top of this I am a qualified Rescue diver, Beach Lifeguard, Support Worker and Health Care assistant, as such I have a great background knowledge in first aid and health care.
For years first aid courses have almost just been a tick in the box for insurance reasons and I have not felt that I have learnt anything new by the end of the training however, after this course I walked away feeling even more confident in my abilities especially after being given multiple different and realistic first aid scenarios to deal with, which involved some amazing acting, props, makeup, fake blood and a real sense of urgency.
I also learnt some new skills and about some extremely useful first aid equipment that I will be adding to my kits.
As well as learning first aid we were also taught skills and given advice on how to deal with our own mental health before and after dealing with a traumatic event, which is something that I don’t believe has ever been covered on any of my previous first aid courses over the years, but is actually a very important lesson.
Andy the course director is an awesome guy, very friendly and approachable, an excellent teacher and his vast experience is obvious. The venue was stunning with great access near the A30 and the owner of the venue Dave is equally awesome.
If you need first aid training this is the company to go with and I will always use them myself and will always highly recommend them to colleagues, friends and family.
Trevone Bay Adventures – Cornwall
Aaron Coward –
Brilliant. Intuitive. Refreshing. Engaging. FUN!
I’ve just returned from a 2-day Outdoor Emergency First Aid course with Andy Sullivan. I could list the numerous life-saving techniques I have learnt in the last 2 days, but the most important takeaway is Andy’s ability to inspire confidence in your abilities. His evidence-based approach instils the belief that just being on the scene and carrying out the basics could be the difference between life or death for someone. That confidence in your own abilities is vital in these situations.
No complex numbers or particular order of how to do things, Andy goes into the biology of what we do giving you a far better understanding of why we do it.
I’ve been on first aid courses before, which are primarily PowerPoint-based with some mannequin work, but this was next level. Real, acted-out scenarios with prosthetics and make-up and discussions after each scenario about how the teams tackled it. This really allows you to understand potential situations far more accurately than just looking at a slide.
Andy has years of real-life experience and the outdoor environment we trained in added to the authenticity and memorability of the situations we encountered. He tells of his own experiences to make everything relatable.
He is genuinely a top guy with a natural aptitude for passing on his knowledge and skillsets.
It was also a great team bonding exercise for my colleagues and me; everyone had a fantastic time.
(I’m sure the sunshine helped as well!)
I cannot recommend this course highly enough. It was the best course I’ve attended.
Thanks, Andy.
All the best!
Nick Ward –
I have now attended two Outdoor First Aid courses run by Andy Sullivan of Emergency Life Support Team and I cannot recommend Andy and his team highly enough. Booking on to the courses is extremely easy through the excellent website and certificates are issued via email within a couple of days after course completion. Andy teaches real life skills through years of his experience in the fire service, in a way that is extremely engaging and although a serious subject, Andy makes it fun. The training days are extremely well structured with a nice balance of theoretical tuition and practical scenarios……and of course, tea breaks! Andy and his team give 100% of their time to you throughout the course answering any questions and giving advice and are always happy to pick up the phone after the course to help with any queries. I’ll definitely be using Emergency Life Support Team in the future and recommending to others.
Ben –
Fresh from the course and wow what a fantastic one it was. Hardly any classroom-based learning all outside and hands on what is great for me being hands on learner and dyslexic. Even better it’s an ongoing assessment so now need to worry about the dreaded test wanting us to recite numbers, as Andy and Shaun said on the course when if you need to use these skills with adrenaline and stress you are not going to remember.
Having done a few first aid courses, my first outdoor I left feeling confident with what I have learned, and it is staying in. I can say I am looking forward to seeing you guys for the next one.
Give Shaun an Oscar for his acting! And Andy a colour chart for the shade or orange
Claire Woodhouse –
By far and away the best course I’ve ever attended. Andy & Shaun’s approach is both personal & effective. Their teaching style really engages everyone and by making it not just hands on but very real, you can’t help but throw yourself in & gain confidence in your own abilities. With not only no fear of getting it wrong but actually so encouraging to learn from your mistakes.
Can’t recommend them or their courses enough.
The whole team, from admin to delivery of the course is 1st class.
Thanks guys!
Suzanne –
Honestly the best First Aid Course that I’ve done over the years. Very informative and interesting, and Andy clearly has extensive knowledge and experience behind him. Also efficient sending certificates over once the course waw completed. Lovely guy, and a friendly, open atmosphere over the course if the 2 days. Would definitely recommend.
Jim McDonnell – St Bede’s School –
“Attended Andy and Sean’s 2-day course as a refresher for my now out-of-date outdoor first aid qualification, and came away refreshed in more ways than I expected. I need the course as a Duke of Edinburgh award leader; there were other DofE staff there, as well as some Forest School staff and Forestry Commission workers. Alongside all the practical scenarios (fabulously realised by Sean, who might have missed his calling in Hollywood), Andy managed to include philosophical and practical thoughts about mental health, first aid outside the bounds of our specific needs, the neuropsychology of dealing with trauma and much more. As just 1 concrete example of a change in my thinking having done this course, day 1 set me thinking about how I would cope with a first aid situation at home or in the car and I realised that although well prepared with first aid resources on a DofE expedition, I’m woefully underprepared at home or in the car (beyond the plasters-in-the-bathroom-cabinet level; first aid kits, plasters, hi-vis etc. all duly ordered for home use now!). There was a good mix of anecdote, shared experience among all of us, and always a pragmatic and practical approach to first aid. It was informative, thought-provoking and at times very funny. If my taught lessons at school had the same variety of methods of delivery and engagement (not that they don’t, of course…) I’d go home happy each night. I’m almost sorry that I won’t need to do this course again for another three years. Thank you, Andy and Sean and ELST. Great work.”
Annie Brown –
I am quite a squeamish person but I needed the Outdoor First Aid for work. I expected to learn about common injuries and signs of serious illness and what was best to do. I remember feeling overwhelmed with information at other first aid courses, which made me feel a little uncertain when I needed to recall what to do. Andy simplified the role of a first aider and despite the wealth of knowledge that he shared it all seemed to make sense. We practised real-life scenarios with an actor and I can’t explain the benefits of that compared to approaching a dummy. I have a new confidence to go into a situation and offer my help and knowledge, which I wasn’t expecting to gain from this course. I even bought a first aid kit for my car and genuinely feel I could help if god forbid I came across a road traffic collision. This is a course for everyone no matter what your job and I can’t recommend it enough. We need more first-aiders in the world and especially in the UK right now. I am proud of my new skills and confidence and will be back to see Andy in a few years for a top up ? Thank you.
Steve Hughes (HF Holidays Walk Leader) –
This is my fourth 2-Day Outdoor First Aid course, but by far the best. Andy and Shaun’s approach took the fear out of ‘doing something wrong’ by focussing on what can practically be achieved in various situations. On previous courses, participants were separated into groups, with one member of the group playing victim whilst the others try to work out what the problem is. Since we are not expert actors, this isn’t always easy. This course also separates participants into groups, but our victim is Instructor Shaun, who with appropriate makeup, props and acting expertise, is able to portray various life-threatening injuries and health problems with much better accuracy. It almost felt like the real thing, rather than a simulation. It is hard to illustrate protruding bones and catastrophic blood loss, but Shaun managed it. Not only did I learn more on this course than on previous ones, I enjoyed it more because it was fun. Andy and Shaun are both characters and their anecdotes concerning their own First Aid experiences added authenticity to their teaching. If I am still walk-leading in my 70’s then these are the guys I will be seeing again in three years’ time.
Simone Laughton –
I’ve completed first aid training for our multiple businesses a number of times in the past but this course really bought the teaching home with the interactive way Shaun and Andy teach. We run a couple of garages plus a motocross track and a diverse range of accidents were covered. At motocross it’s not uncommon to get injuries or potentially life threatening situations like broken femer so going through the role play situations was really helpful to re-create that element of pressure and stress you feel when someone is howling in pain or bleeding and you need to think and act fast and remember what you’ve learnt. I really enjoyed the two days and feel more confident in dealing with situations now.
Steve Hughes (HF Holidays Walk Leader) –
This is my fourth 2-Day Outdoor First Aid course, but by far the best. Andy and Shaun’s approach took the fear out of ‘doing something wrong’ by focussing on what can practically be achieved in various situations. On previous courses, participants were separated into groups, with one member of the group playing victim whilst the others try to work out what the problem is. Since we are not expert actors, this isn’t always easy. This course also separates participants into groups, but our victim is Shaun, who with appropriate makeup, props and expertise, is able to portray various life-threatening injuries and health problems with much better accuracy. It almost felt like the real thing, rather than a simulation. It is hard to illustrate protruding bones and catastrophic blood loss, but Shaun managed it. Not only did I learn more on this course than on previous ones, I enjoyed it more because it was fun. Andy and Shaun are both characters and their anecdotes concerning their own First Aid experiences added authenticity to their teaching. If I am still walk-leading in my 70’s than these are the guys I will be seeing again in three years’ time.
Cathy Ford –
I have just finished the 2 day Outdoor First Aid course…. what can I say…Andy & Shaun were brilliant! Despite having done many first aid courses through my work in outdoor ed and teaching, this is the first time I have come away feeling a level of confidence that I would have a good idea of what to do & be able to help, rather than feeling a bit overwhelmed with all that I don’t know and a kind of fear about not remembering everything or getting it wrong. The 2 days absolutely highlighted the importance of keeping it simple, and even touched on the importance of simple breathing techniques to help you keep calm & think more clearly. Andy clearly has an incredible amount of experience & knowledge, and his use of examples of real life situations, his own reactions, the people he has learned from, are not only fascinating, but also highlight the importance of doing your best – it could save a life. I also found it fascinating to understand more about how first aid can be a huge help to the emergency services and the incredible knowledge & skill they have. The outdoor scenarios were highly engaging & thought provoking – Sean’s acting really drew me in to feel as close to the real thing as they could be. Both Andy & Shaun talked refreshingly openly about the importance of looking after your own mental health generally, the value in sharing with others, in particular in relation to experiencing a personal or first aid related trauma. I highly HIGHLY recommend this course to anyone working with people in the outdoors and or anyone keen to feel as confident as you can be with your ability to get involved with, deal with, offer help in a first aid situation. Thank you so much.
Neil Beckett –
Brilliant training course. Andy and Shaun share their fantastic knowledge of real life situations and the course really brings it all to life. Both really encouraging and get the group motiviated and working together. I was really impressed with how they consider not only the physical health of the patient but the mental health of all those involved in a First Aid incident. Thanks very much, Neil. Secondary School Pastoral Support, DofE Coordinator, Outdoor Wilderness Practioner.
Emily Clarke –
Absolutely fantastic outdoor first aid course. Andy and Shaun are amazing teachers. They have such a wealth of experience between them. They deliver the course in a way that is both fun and informative. It’s the second time I have booked with elst and I am already looking forward to my next renewal! The outdoor scenarios make the course very interesting, there will not be a dull moment! Don’t hesitate and book today!
M Jamison –
The best thing about this course and Andy and Saun, is that they know what actually happens in an emergency and perhaps more importantly what happens in the minds of those who arrive at the scene. Trying to remember a million rules at that point is not going to happen, so being given permission and the confidence to exercise one’s own initiative alongside sensible observations and techniques, makes perfect COMMON SENSE. I now know how to recognise which emergency is which, how to deal with them, how to know when it’s time to just hold someone’s hand AND…. how to stop someone snoring. AWESOME!…. And no, not with an axe.
Worth noting: I also learnt the simplest technique to save a life that most first aiders haven’t got a clue about, which they SERIOUSLY SHOULD. So next time you happen to be hanging from a cliff edge, make sure you call an ELST first aider you will have a much higher survival rate.
Thanks Gents, see you in 3 years
Claire –
This is by far the best first aid training out there.
I myself come from an emergency services background and found it to be a very engaging and interactive course, that taught first aid in an exciting and refreshing way.
Highly recommend!
Project Rewild –
The first aid training with ELST was fantastic. Andy and his team are engaging and hilarious while also being incredibly professional.
This is a very hands on, practical training with not an acronym or PowerPoint in site. As a team, we all agreed ELST is by far the best first aid training we have ever had and most importantly we’ve all retained the information and feel confident that we would know what to do in an emergency situation. I highly recommend ELST to anyone looking to do their first aid training and as an organisation we will be returning to Andy in three years to renew it.
Thank you so much Andy from the Project Rewild team.
Tam jenkins –
Testimonials often seem to be implausible, however, I can honestly say that this two-day course was very informative, with no pressure of formal exams, although it was clear that we were being assessed. There were many real-life stories that brought the training alive and into reality. I suffer from high levels of anxiety and this causes eczema, however, I can honestly say this is the first time in a long time that the flare-ups that I am so used to having never appeared as I was feeling so reassured by this training. I would definitely recommend this course to anyone regardless of their employment. The only downside to this two-day course is the time disappears so quickly and before you realise it you are saying goodbye.
Graeme Bartholomew –
I have just completed a first aid course with ELST and I would recommend them to anyone for their first aid training.
I have over thirty years of experience as a first aider and I have to say that in all that time, the course I have just completed with Andy and Shaun was the most instructive and informative of any of the previous training received.
They are very knowledgeable and approachable instructors, and their training methods are some of the best I have seen and certainly the most memorable.
Thank you very much ELST and I will be returning for the refresher when required.
(Duke of Edinburgh Supervisor and Assessor)
Andy Gooch –
During my 30 year career as a police officer, and as a keen mountain trekker, I have had to apply my first aid knowledge on a number of occasions for real. I have recently completed the two day ‘Outdoor First Aid’ course with Andy and Sean, and I wish that I’d had this particular input years ago. The manner in which the training is delivered is wholly professional, practical and easy to remember, yet relaxed and enjoyable. Even with the course being ‘Covid compliant’ there is still good opportunity to practice the skills taught. This was probably the best first aid training I have received. If you need an Outdoor First Aid qualification, I recommended ELST.
Outdoor Leader and Retired Police Officer
Jess Ringwood –
I would like to thank the amazing team at ELST for creating a highly engaging and practical First Aid course that has surpassed any course I’ve been on of this kind. I was so pleased I made the decision to join Andy, Shaun and Tim down in Hailsham for what I can only describe as an empowering two days. The guys’ firsthand experiences made every minute interesting, engaging and accessible. I signed up to the course as a legal requirement for my job but left feeling grateful, informed, and confident to deliver lifesaving aid, if ever the situation requires it. The real-life scenarios brought our learning to life and allowed us to have a go at practicing the skills on an actual person in a very realistic reenactment. This made such a difference to my understanding of the essential yet simple parts of First Aid that will make the immediate difference to the person you are helping. We were not bombarded with Dos and Don’ts, PowerPoints or worksheets, instead we were met with friendly, easy-going guys who welcomed us all and put us at ease every step of the way. Thanks again, I looked forward to next time!
Many thanks,
Jess Ringwood |Outdoor Learning and Forest School Teacher| Broomhill Bank School
Elliott Crook –
I spent the weekend on this course at Bushy Wood campsite and it was the best First Aid course I’ve ever attended.
It was so refreshing to hear from Andy that it’s the end goal that is important in First Aid and he showed us lots of different ways to get there.
In a Covid safe way, we were able to be hands on with “real people” to practise the skills we were taught and that made such a difference.
Shaun’s acting in the real life scenarios was amazing and getting stuck in, to help him, was a brilliant way to learn (and make mistakes) before we had a debrief, where we could all participate.
A huge thanks to both Andy and Shaun for making the weekend so much fun, when learning such vital skills.
Elliott Crook
Alison Cordner –
Forget about any first aid course you may have done in the past and just do this one instead! I had an absolutely amazing experience with the ELS Team on my first aid course this weekend, it was like no other I have attended. Our group were encouraged to get hands on straight away (in a ‘COVID secure’ way) without any of the usual awkward role play and classroom based powerpoint presentations. The real-life scenarios and actively getting involved has given me so much confidence in my ability to administer first aid. Having attended first aid courses with other providers, I never felt prepared to deal with emergency first aid situations but after this weekend with ELST I can honestly say I feel ready to deal with (or at least attempt to deal with) a variety of emergency situations. The training is thorough and interesting with a good opportunity for everyone to get involved. Plus you get front row seats to some Oscar level performances! I will definitely be returning in three years time!
Alison Cordner
Roman Humphreys –
Just wanted to drop a little thanks…
The past couple of days have been fantastic in every way and I genuinely loved it all.
I think the course was outstanding. It was engaging, educational, and great fun.
Your delivery of the whole event was exceptional, and so captivating. I could have easily sat and listened to more stories, tips and tricks for hours or even days more!
There was a couple of very important things you’ve helped me with…
First is setting my mind at rest about expectations. After the first First Aid course I did, I had a lot of worry about “should I let people know about this… What if something happens, people look to me, and I can’t help..” Some of those worries even came back before this course. But, after this weekend, and understand standing what we’re there to do, and what we’re NOT there to do has helped so much.
Second, highlighting the goal and not the process… the stand out example of the weekend is the recovery position (although there were many others). All I could remember from the other course I did was the emphasis on getting the positioning process done right and not WHY I was positioning them. I genuinely thought it was to promote blood flow or something!! Demonstrating that we’re just making sure it’s there mouth facing down, and really how you do that is less important was so simple but so helpful.
A note on Shaun. What.a.guy. wow… where to begin. Those performances were on another level. You may have over heard some of it, but coming away from the sections everyone was talking about how amazing and immersive his performances were, and that the value it adds to the experience is immeasurable. Also, When he’s not covered in blood, mumbling through a stroke, or being an aggressive diabetic, he’s wonderful to chat to! First aid needs more Shaun’s!
Again, a massive thanks to both you and Shaun not only for the incredibly well put together weekend, but for actually doing what you do, sharing all your knowledge and experience.
Roman Humphreys
Antigone Nikiteas –
I just wanted to write and say thank you so much for a really interesting, engaging and informative two days doing the outdoor first aid course. Of all the first aid courses I’ve done this has left me the most enthused and empowered to feel like I know what I need for my first aid kit and what help I can provide in the unfortunate event of needing to give first aid.
The way the two of you brought scenarios to life with very realistic acting and props, whilst talking through processes clearly and inviting group interactivity has really helped those all important messages and knowledge sink in. I really appreciated hearing you’re real life stories as well.
One particular element that I was impressed with was your focus on mental health throughout the course. It is the first, first aid course I have done where the mental health impact on both the victim of an event and particularly yourself as first aider has been thought about and the suggestions you gave for managing this were both practical and thoughtful.
I also especially appreciated how relaxed the course was in terms of not stressing about detailed technique because that is not realistic. The learn and evaluate as we go approach really made me feel at ease and because I wasn’t stressing about being ‘tested’, it made me more open to absorbing the information and more confident to engage.
Finally and on a more personal note, I am so glad I was doing your course as my first two days away from my 10 month old baby. Honestly, I was dreading it, but given all of the above – the relaxed atmosphere, how engaging and interactive the content was – I couldn’t have asked for a more positive distraction. And I am now really excited to share this knowledge and skills with my son when he is a little older. Thank you for being so caring and empathic to this particular circumstance throughout the course.
Antigone Nikiteas
elsteam999 –
In the current situation surrounding Covid-19, I found it difficult to find an Outdoor First Aid course nearby, but I was lucky enough to come across the one run by the Emergency Life Support Team. Andy and Shaun were quick to put me at ease when I arrived and, while adhering to Covid restrictions, they delivered two days’ training that was interesting and engaging. Andy’s wealth of experience meant that he always had a story up his sleeve to illustrate a point and these really embedded the learning. The realistic scenarios certainly got the adrenaline pumping and gave you a real feel for how you would react, while making you feel prepared to handle these situations.
Whereas on previous first aid courses I left feeling nervous that I wouldn’t remember everything, I left this course feeling that I could really make a difference if I was first on the scene. I would highly recommend this course to anyone, whether you ‘need’ it or not.
Best wishes
Melissa Kosar
Dr Mary Gearey –
The School of Environment and Technology staff really go the extra mile for their colleagues and students. Over two stormy days several members of the school’s academic and technical team braved high winds and rain to learn the ins and outs of emergency first aid response in the wilderness. The setting was Wood Mills Nature Reserve near Henfield in West Sussex. The team battled the elements to get to grips with handling severed limbs, cardiac arrests, seizures, head injuries and even paper cuts. Academic life, in all its forms, can get messy.
Our aim was to ensure that the field trips we undertake as part of our students’ learning, give as much focus (if not more) on safety as to academic rigour and practical skills. Given that our Geography, Geology, Ecology and Environmental Sciences students will participate in residential experiences that can include remote locations in Brazil, South Africa, Spain, Morocco and Sicily, we are always updating the skillsets of the team to ensure everyone’s welfare is prioritised.
man lying on floor with tourniquet around legActivities on the two day training course included diagnosing and stabilising hypothermia, building stretchers from on-hand materials and using tourniquets to remedy more severe injuries. We learnt, amongst many things, to identify if an unconscious person is ‘snoring’. This indicates a restricted airway, and the approach is to gently tip their jaw up and forward to open up their airway. Even basic manoeuvres such as this can save a person’s life.
Our expert tutors Andy and Sean from Emergency Life Support Team, went the whole hog to make the more extreme learning scenarios as realistic as possible – including staging lost limbs to chainsaw accidents.
Safely back in doors for a debrief at the end of day two, limbs reattached, we all agreed that there is no such thing as over preparation – whether applied to field trip risk assessments; or for the student group presentations at the end of each learning activity. And we also all now know for sure that where you find a defibrillator you will surely find a razor…
Dr Mary Gearey
Senior Lecturer in Human Geography
University of Brighton
James Andrew –
I’ve just got home after completing the 2-day Outdoor First Aid course, and really feel that we should all be looking to ELST to provide first aid training. I’ve been on several first aid courses, and have needed to use first aid (or my attempts at it) on numerous occasions in the real world, just as a teacher, a member of the public, and a road-user. What I can say about ELST is that their scenario training is outstanding, and provides what I feel is an invaluable, real-as-possible experience, that can help you to feel more prepared should you find yourself in similar life-threatening (or otherwise) situations.
We spent the first day in the classroom, and spent the second day in the woods getting muddy and (fake) bloody. The course content was very good and as described, but whereas on previous courses, where I’ve gone home full of questions, concerns, doubts, and dare I say, fears about my memory and abilities to deal with anything, actually having a hands-on experience and a running commentary, I have come away from ELST reassured that I’ll do my best, that doing my best WILL help (if possible), and that that’d good enough for the situation I’m presented with. I have no doubt that it’ll save lives.
Thanks ever so much both to Andy, for his expert instruction, and to Sean, for his frighteningly-real scenarios and helping to bring things to life (or death!). The pair make a great team, have a vast wealth of experience between them, and are approachable and easy to talk to. I can’t recommend this course enough to anyone in any walk of life, frankly. I did this through work, but if you’ve never had any first aid training, just book yourself on it. You could save a loved-one (or anyone, really) with just a bit of knowledge, and the confidence to have a go.
Thanks again,
James Andrew
Julie Butler –
I first did the two day course 3 years ago and without a doubt it was the best first aid course I’d ever attended so I had no hesitation in booking on another this year to renew my qualifications. Andy is friendly, welcoming and delivers a wealth of information and examples in a professional, knowledgeable but easily understandable way. On the two courses Andy has been joined by Shaun and the two of them work really well together both with a great sense of humour which is not normally found on first aid courses.
They create outdoor scenarios which provide fantastic practical opportunities to fulfil the role of first responder and use the knowledge discussed, followed by appropriate feedback and reflection afterwards. Highly recommended to anyone looking for an introduction to first aid and especially those needing the outdoor first aid qualification. Definitely a fresh approach to teaching first aid which leaves much more of an impression than traditional courses. Thanks Andy and Shaun!
Julie Butler
Tabitha McConnell –
A very engaging day accompanied by an instructor with real life experience making it more applicable and realistic. Thoroughly enjoyed the day and learnt a lot of important skills. Would defiantly recommend!
Tabitha McConnell
Rowena Gerrett –
The two day course was, without a doubt, the best first aid course I’ve ever done. It was packed with information, which was delivered in a professional, knowledgeable and digestible way, with many examples given. Andy was friendly and welcoming and scenarios created outdoors provided fantastic practical opportunities to put the theory into practice, with appropriate reflection afterwards.
Andy and Shaun also had a sense of humour – not something always found on first aid courses! I highly recommend.
Rowena Gerrett
Chrissy Higgins –
I have been a motorcyclist (in an accident of my own making), and a witness to three serious road traffic incidents at which I was the first on the scene. In each of these situations I wished that I had been more able to help. For this reason, I decided that and ELST course was for me.
To say that I had reservations about a) doing an Outdoor First Aid course, and b) that I would be observed whilst carrying out actions on a real person with very lifelike injuries would be an understatement! The reality, however, was that it was informative, fun, immersive and gave me a bonding experience with my fellow trainees that was totally unexpected.
I genuinely did not know what to expect from this course (I attended a 2-day outdoor course). I’d been on a workplace First Aid course, which was pretty much all theory and took place over three days in a hotel somewhere. I found the Outdoor First aid course to be a completely different experience. I don’t want to spoil any surprises for anyone but, boy, is the make-up good! I had also been concerned about being watched as I employed my new-found knowledge and skills in the woods. I needn’t have worried – there is no criticism, only encouragement, and I became so immersed in the reality of the situations we were presented with that at one stage I found myself getting quite emotional at the prospect of one of my “patients” dying from a pretend heart attack!
Andy and his team know how to make you understand what you are facing, how to use facilities that are at your disposal in the outdoors, how to treat an accident as a “resolvable situation” rather than a crisis and, more importantly, to accept that you cannot solve everything.
My lesson learnt? As long as you have done your best to help, then that is better than standing by and doing nothing. I now carry a pink high viz jacket and a “proper” first aid kit in my car as a matter of course, confident that, should the need to use it arise I will be able to do something more useful than simply call for help.
Chrissy Higgins
Nick Baldwin-Charles –
Thank you Andy and Shaun for an excellent two days outdoor first aid course.
I have served for 32 years, military and Police patrolling and responding to incidents. Now working in the outdoors industry I need to maintain and update my First Aid capability, this course did that and more. Practical scenarios and a no pressure learning environment being the thread throughout.
The demonstrations and hands with trauma techniques and kit was very helpful Thanks again Nick British Canoeing Sea Kayak Leader