Outdoor First Aid Course Devon | 16-Hour Accredited Outdoor First Aid
Trusted by outdoor instructors, expedition leaders, Forest School practitioners, and adventure organisations across Devon and the South West.
Delivered on Dartmoor, Devon | 16-Hour Accredited Qualification | Suitable for NGB Requirements
Upcoming Scheduled Dates
Outdoor First Aid training centres on Dartmoor, Devon.
Looking for a course in Cornwall? View our Outdoor First Aid Training in Cornwall page.
Outdoor First Aid Training in Devon
Our accredited 16-hour Outdoor First Aid course is delivered on Dartmoor, Devon, and trusted by outdoor instructors, expedition leaders, Forest School practitioners, and adventure professionals across the South West. Designed for those operating in remote, wilderness, and high-risk environments where emergency response may be delayed, this nationally recognised qualification provides the practical skills and confidence needed to manage real incidents when it matters most.
Through realistic scenarios and hands-on training, you will develop the decision-making ability and casualty management skills required to respond effectively in challenging outdoor environments. This course also includes the Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification at no additional cost, providing recognised workplace certification alongside your Outdoor First Aid training.
Outdoor instructors and Mountain Leaders can also access our Outdoor First Aid Training for the South West with courses and onsite delivery available across the region.
Looking for an Outdoor First Aid course near you?
Our Outdoor First Aid courses are delivered from our Dartmoor training base in Devon, with learners regularly attending from Exeter, Plymouth, Torbay, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset, and across the South West. Many outdoor professionals choose to travel for practical, scenario-based training delivered in a genuine outdoor environment rather than a traditional classroom setting.
Whether you work in outdoor education, expedition leadership, adventure activities, or remote environments, our 16-hour Outdoor First Aid course provides the confidence and skills needed to respond effectively when help may be delayed.
16-Hour Outdoor First Aid Course
This accredited Outdoor First Aid qualification provides 16 hours of practical training delivered over two days. The course meets the requirements of many National Governing Bodies (NGBs), outdoor organisations, and expedition providers, making it suitable for both initial certification and renewal.
Designed specifically for those operating in remote and outdoor environments, the course focuses on practical casualty management, environmental emergencies, and decision-making when access to emergency services may be delayed.
Qualification Overview
- Accredited 16-Hour Outdoor First Aid Qualification
- Valid for 3 years
- Includes Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certification
- Recognised across the UK outdoor sector
- Accepted by organisations including Paddle UK, Mountain Training, BASI, MIAS, British Cycling, and the Forest School Association
Outdoor First Aid Course Dartmoor and Across the South West
We deliver Outdoor First Aid training from our Dartmoor base in Devon, supporting individuals and organisations across the South West, including Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, and Dorset.
Learners regularly attend from Exeter, Torquay, Plymouth, Newton Abbot, North Devon, and Cornwall, many choosing Dartmoor specifically for its realistic outdoor environment and practical, scenario-led training approach.
This Outdoor First Aid course provides hands-on training for those working in remote, wilderness, mountain, and outdoor environments, building the confidence and capability to manage serious incidents where access to emergency services may be delayed.
The course is recognised by a range of National Governing Bodies, including Paddle UK, Mountain Training, BASI, MIAS, and British Cycling. It is also widely accepted across forestry, environmental work, field studies, research, and conservation sectors.
What You’ll Learn on the Outdoor First Aid Course
Outdoor Incident Management
- Assessing incidents in remote environments
- Managing multiple casualties
- Emergency communication and evacuation planning
Environmental and Outdoor Injuries
- Hypothermia and cold exposure
- Heat illness and dehydration
- Bites, stings, and environmental hazards
Trauma and Medical Emergencies
- Bleeding control and wound management
- Fractures, sprains, and dislocations
- Head, neck, and spinal considerations
- Asthma, anaphylaxis, seizures, and diabetic emergencies
Improvised Techniques
- Using outdoor equipment to stabilise injuries
- Improvised splints and slings
- Casualty movement across difficult terrain
Outdoor First Aid Training for Outdoor Professionals
Whether you are working across remote moorland, coastal and cliff environments, woodland and Forest School settings, rural locations with limited access, or busy outdoor education sites, this course equips you with the skills and confidence to operate safely.
This course is suitable for:
- Outdoor instructors and activity leaders
- Mountain leaders and walking guides
- Duke of Edinburgh expedition supervisors
- Forest School leaders and outdoor educators
- Expedition and adventure tourism professionals
- Scout and youth group leaders
Many National Governing Bodies require a 16-hour Outdoor First Aid qualification, making this course suitable for both initial certification and renewal.
For forestry professionals requiring additional workplace first aid training, view our Emergency First Aid at Work +F Course Devon.
Why Learners Travel from Across the South West
Many learners travel from across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, and Dorset to attend this course because of our:
- Realistic training delivered in a genuine outdoor environment
- Scenario-based learning reflecting real incidents
- Practical, hands-on approach rather than classroom-based theory
- Instruction informed by real-world operational experience
This is not simply a compliance-based course. It is designed to prepare you for managing genuine emergencies in remote and challenging environments.
Delivered by Instructors with Real Operational Experience
Training is delivered by instructors with extensive real-world experience in high-risk and remote environments, including military and operational backgrounds.
You will learn not only what to do, but how to assess situations, prioritise interventions, and make effective decisions under pressure.
Looking to Advance Your Skills?
If you require a higher level of casualty care for remote or high-risk environments, explore our FREC 3 First Response Emergency Care course in Devon.
Book Your Outdoor First Aid Course
If you’re looking to book onto an Outdoor First Aid course, discuss training options for your team, or arrange payment by invoice rather than direct online booking, Optimal First Aid is here to help.
FAQ
Where is your Outdoor First Aid course delivered in Devon?
Our Outdoor First Aid courses in Devon are delivered from our Dartmoor training locations Haytor or Princetown, with practical scenarios designed around rural, woodland, moorland, and remote inland environments commonly found across Devon.
Does this course meet National Governing Body requirements?
Yes. The qualification is recognised by organisations including Paddle UK, Mountain Training, BASI, MIAS, and British Cycling.
Do you offer Outdoor First Aid training for organisations across Devon?
We provide Outdoor First Aid training for businesses, outdoor providers, and teams across Devon, including Exeter, Plymouth, Torbay, and surrounding rural locations. Group and on-site delivery can be arranged where required.
Is this a 16-hour Outdoor First Aid course?
Yes. This course provides 16 hours of practical training delivered over two days.
Where is the Outdoor First Aid course delivered?
Our Outdoor First Aid courses are delivered in Princetown on Dartmoor National Park, Devon. The location provides an ideal training environment for developing practical casualty management skills in realistic outdoor conditions.
Learners regularly attend from Exeter, Plymouth, Torbay, Newton Abbot, Tavistock, Okehampton, North Devon, Somerset and Cornwall. Training on Dartmoor allows participants to experience scenario-based learning in genuine outdoor terrain rather than a classroom setting, helping build confidence for real-world incidents where access to emergency services may be delayed.
You can find course dates and venue details on our booking page.
Is this course appropriate for outdoor instructors and land-based professionals in Devon?
This course is ideal for outdoor instructors, forestry workers, agricultural professionals, expedition leaders, and remote workers who operate in Devon’s outdoor and rural environments.
How is this different from a standard first aid course in Devon?
Unlike standard first aid courses, this Outdoor First Aid training focuses on real-world outdoor incidents, including remote casualty care, environmental exposure, improvised evacuation, and decision-making in locations where immediate medical assistance may not be available.
What should I bring to the Outdoor First Aid course in Devon?
We recommend bringing suitable outdoor clothing and footwear appropriate for Dartmoor and changing weather conditions, as practical elements may take place outdoors. You should also bring food, water, and any personal medication required during the day. Full joining instructions are provided before the course.
I'm looking for an Outdoor First Aid course near me. Why choose Optimal First Aid?
Many learners choose Optimal First Aid because of our practical approach, real-world experience, and training delivered in a genuine outdoor environment on Dartmoor.
EXCELLENT Based on 268 reviews Posted on Google Jo McGainTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great to find a good FREC3 training in the south west. Toby is extremely knowledgeable and experienced and teaches clearly with loads of useful practice. I learnt a huge amount and left feeling confident in my new skills. Thank you!Posted on Google Gabrielle WoodingTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great training course, the best in the South West and Devon. Very friendly, knowledgeable trainers. Gave me confidence to work in first aid in the future.Posted on Google Ash WhiteTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent FREC 3 course in Southwest Devon by Optimal First Aid. Will return to renew qualification in the future. Highly recommended.Posted on Google Alan LowethTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've just attended the Emergency Outdoor First Aid Course run by Toby. I've done First Aid at Work Training before and my Emergency First Aid at Work qualification is still in date. The Outdoor Course was a great refresher, but I also learnt a lot more that's relevant for my current conservation volunteering. Toby delivered a full-day course which included lots of practical exercises and left plenty of time to practice the various techniques. He kept everyone's attention for the whole day which was quite an achievement and I'd recommend Optimal First Aid to anyone who is looking for an engaging trainer who will draw on their own experience but put the focus on the training needs of the attendees.Posted on Google Robert ChristieTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Top quality instruction from Toby, at Optimal First Aid in Devon. Highly recommended ! Great course, delivered in a very professional manner with deep subject matter knowladge from an expert in this field. Theory backed up by practical, field-tested scenarios to give a complete package.Posted on Google Andrew BaileyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. An amazing Frec 3 course provided by optimal first aid . very knowledgeable and learnt a lot more than i thought i would . Was very helpful with any questions i wanted to ask at anytime throughout the course . Would highly recommend.Posted on Google Alan RobinsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Frec 3 Devon, friendly, experienced & knowledgable trainer. Adapted teaching styles to suit individual learners ensuring all group attained required knowledge. Will certainly do further training courses with optimal first aid!Posted on Google Kate BurtonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Have just completed the FREC3 course with Toby and it was excellent. A great paced course with plenty of hands on practice, Toby has a wealth of knowledge and teaches in a down to earth and realistic way. No death by PowerPoint! Highly recommend!Posted on Google james dyerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great FREC 3 coursePosted on Google Adventure South UKTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Second time on this course. I would highly recommend Optimal First Aid.
Contact Us
Have a question about our Outdoor First Aid course or need help choosing the right training for your role? Whether you’re an instructor, expedition leader, or working in remote or outdoor environments, we’re here to help. Complete the form below and a member of our team will get back to you within 24 hours with clear, practical advice.
Before booking, employers should ensure that the course selected is appropriate for their workplace risks and operational requirements. Information regarding First Aid Needs Assessments, employer responsibilities and our quality assurance processes can be found on our Training Standards, Quality Assurance & Compliance page.
