RYA First Aid Course in Daventry and Banbury

Ideal for anyone interested in water sports or working towards RYA instructor qualifications, this one-day course teaches practical first aid skills that can save lives. You’ll engage in hands-on activities covering CPR, AED use, shock management, and cold water response, with interactive scenarios making the learning experience realistic and memorable.

⏱️ Key Details

• Duration: 8 hours (9am - 5.30pm inc breaks)
• Minimum age: 12+ (under 16 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian)
• Certificate Validity: 3 years
• Location: Byfield, Daventry (summer sessions occasionally in Cropredy, Banbury)
• Class size: 1–12 participants (minimum 2 to run course)

🩹 Key Skills

• Perform CPR, including drowning-specific protocols
• Operate an AED confidently and safely
• Apply recovery positions and control bleeding
• Recognise and manage shock, cold shock, hypothermia, seasickness, and dehydration
• Use CAT C First Aid kits and respond to emergency situations, including helicopter rescues

📝 What to Expect

Sessions begin with an introduction to the role and responsibilities of a first aider, including legal considerations and initial scene assessment. Participants then practise CPR using advanced Laerdal QCPR mannequins, giving instant feedback on technique and efficiency.

Hands-on exercises continue with AED use on trainer devices, ensuring learners are comfortable with real-life deployment. Choking scenarios, casualty assessment, and recovery position drills allow participants to practise skills in realistic situations, supported closely by instructors.

Later in the day, scenario-based exercises combine multiple skills to simulate real emergencies. Learners work in pairs or small groups to manage incidents including hypothermia, dehydration, and medical assistance via VHF. Sessions conclude with guidance on using CAT C First Aid kits for commercial endorsement purposes.

📍 Location

Byfield, Daventry offers an accessible, well-equipped training base for practical first aid courses. Facilities include ample parking, comfortable classroom space, and areas dedicated to hands-on exercises, ensuring a safe and controlled learning environment.

Summer sessions may also take place at Cropredy near Banbury, providing additional flexibility for learners across the Midlands. Both sites allow close supervision and support for participants, ensuring practical skills can be applied safely and effectively.

🎯 Prerequisites

No prior first aid knowledge is required, making the course suitable for beginners and those looking to refresh or update existing skills. Participants under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to ensure full compliance and supervision.

Attendees should be prepared to participate actively in practical exercises throughout the day. Comfortable clothing suitable for hands-on drills is recommended, along with bringing a lunch and any personal items needed for a full day of training.

🌊 Why Choose Us

Small class sizes and low ratios ensure individual attention during hands-on activities, including AED and CPR practice. The use of modern Laerdal QCPR mannequins and Act+Fast choking trainers creates a highly interactive and engaging environment for all learners.

Practical scenario-based teaching ensures participants gain real-world experience in a controlled setting. Instructors provide expert guidance on using CAT C First Aid kits, supporting learners who want to apply their certification towards commercial water sports roles. Refreshments, materials, and equipment are all provided to create a professional and safe learning experience.