Level 2 Intermediate First Aider Award

Course Content

The Level 2 Intermediate First Aider Award provides a structured blend of theory and hands-on practice. It is designed to meet the needs of those operating in coastal, aquatic, or active outdoor settings, where typical emergency medical services may be delayed.

Key Topics Covered:

• Scene safety and casualty assessment: Learn to rapidly assess a scene, identify hazards, and prioritise care using a primary and secondary survey.
• Airway management and CPR: Refresh and extend your knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including adult, child, and infant protocols, and use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
• Oxygen therapy: Understand when and how to administer oxygen safely using appropriate delivery systems such as non-rebreather masks or bag-valve masks.
• Spinal injury management: Techniques for manually stabilising and assisting casualties with suspected spinal injuries, especially in aquatic or uneven terrain settings.
• Bleeding and shock: Control severe bleeding, recognise signs of shock, and manage circulatory compromise until help arrives.
• Common medical emergencies: Identification and initial care for conditions such as asthma, seizures, hypothermia, heat exhaustion, and diabetic emergencies.
• Casualty handling and evacuation: Safe movement techniques for injured individuals, including improvised carries and stretcher use in challenging environments.
• Record keeping and handover: Accurate documentation and effective communication with emergency services to ensure continuity of care.

Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on decision-making under pressure, working in a team, and adapting to environmental challenges. While content is standardised by SLSGB, delivery may vary slightly by training centre, especially when tailored to specific sports or regional conditions.

Holders of the Level 2 Intermediate First Aider Award are equipped to provide a higher level of first aid care in dynamic and potentially remote environments. This includes surf clubs, open water events, and other coastal or sporting settings. You’ll be able to manage complex incidents involving unconscious casualties, suspected spinal injuries, or breathing difficulties, and can administer oxygen therapy when appropriate equipment is available.

The qualification meets many event and organisational requirements for water sport safety personnel and forms part of the pathway towards becoming an SLSGB-qualified lifesaver or lifeguard. It also enhances your capability as a coach, instructor, or team leader working in adventurous or physically demanding conditions.

While not a substitute for full clinical care, this award bridges the gap between incident and emergency services, helping to maintain casualty stability and safety during that critical window. It’s also often accepted as a valid workplace first aid certificate for environments with additional risk factors.

• Candidates must be at least 16 years of age on the first day of the course.
• You should have a current Level 1 Emergency First Aid certificate or equivalent (e.g., Emergency First Aid at Work).
• A basic understanding of first aid principles is required.
• Physical ability to perform CPR and assist with casualty movement is essential.
• Some experience in aquatic or outdoor environments is helpful but not mandatory.

The Level 2 Intermediate First Aider Award usually runs over two days, with approximately 12–16 contact hours. This includes both classroom-based learning and practical, scenario-led training. Assessment is typically conducted continuously throughout the course, with a final practical evaluation on day two.

The Level 2 Intermediate First Aider Award from Surf Life Saving GB (SLSGB) is assessed through a mix of practical scenarios and theoretical understanding. Candidates are observed and evaluated on their ability to apply first aid techniques confidently, including CPR, bleeding management, and dealing with unconscious casualties. The practical assessment typically includes simulated incidents on land and possibly in aquatic environments, depending on the centre. Participants may also be asked to demonstrate knowledge of protocols like DRABC (Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation) and to answer questions that test their understanding of first aid principles. Most centres conduct assessments throughout the course, with a final summative assessment at the end. Successful completion earns you a nationally recognised certificate, valid for two years. You can find and book SLSGB-accredited training centres directly through adventuro.