Veteran Led First Aid Training Company

When it hits the fan, you need more than a certificate. You need confidence, competence, and clear thinking. That’s exactly what you get with Optimal First Aid.

Our training company is led by experienced Armed Forces veterans who’ve dealt with emergencies in some of the most demanding environments on Earth. We don’t just teach first aid; we teach you how to respond when it really counts.

Why choose veteran led first aid training?

• Real-world scenarios, no death-by PowerPoint here
• Proven instructors with over 15 years of frontline experience
• Training that sticks, practical, hands-on, and pressure tested
• We can come to you, onsite training across Devon, Cornwall and the Southwest

Founded by a former Parachute Regiment soldier, Optimal First Aid was built on the belief that first aid training should prepare you for real emergencies, not just tick a compliance box.

Although not every course is delivered directly by a veteran, each instructor is carefully selected for their real-world experience, operational credibility, and ability to deliver under pressure. Our training doesn’t just tick boxes; it prepares you to act when it matters most.

Optimal First Aid was built to close the gap between classroom theory and real-life emergencies, with courses designed specifically for high-risk, remote, and outdoor environments.

If you want to know more about our mission, values, and the experience behind our training, you can read more about Optimal First Aid and find out what we do.

We bring training to you across Devon, Cornwall and beyond

From remote worksites in Dartmoor to coastal cliffs in Cornwall, we deliver on-site training wherever you operate. Our mobile, adaptable training model means your team gets the best instruction whilst keeping your team onsite.

Our first aid courses

First Aid at Work (FAW) and Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW)

Ensure your team meets HSE requirements and knows exactly what to do when a colleague goes down. Our workplace first aid courses such as First Aid at Work are practical, scenario-based, and tailored to your environment.

• Meets HSE compliance standards
• Suitable for low to high-risk workplaces

Outdoor First Aid – designed for remote environments

Designed for those who live, work, and play outdoors. Whether you’re a guide, instructor, or simply operating off-grid, this Outdoor First Aid course gives you the confidence to deal with emergencies when help is hours away.

• Ideal for outdoor educators, adventurers, and remote workers
• Delivered across Cornwall, Dartmoor and the Southwest
• Includes real-life scenarios, casualty simulation, and practical skills

Outdoor and Paediatric First Aid

Combine our Outdoor First Aid with a full Paediatric First Aid qualification, ideal for forest schools, early years settings, and outdoor learning environments.

• Ofsted and EYFS compliant
• Perfect for nurseries, forest schools, and child-focused outdoor programmes
• Dual certification in one comprehensive course

Forestry First Aid (+F)

Specialist training for forestry workers, tree surgeons, and outdoor contractors. Learn how to manage catastrophic bleeds, crush injuries, and chainsaw trauma.

• Fully compliant and site-specific

FREC 3 – First Response Emergency Care

Step up your skills with this nationally recognised qualification First Response Emergency Care course, ideal for those operating in high-risk roles such as:

• Security and close protection
• Remote or offshore work
• Event medics and medical responders
• Pre-hospital care and emergency services pathway

Learn advanced trauma care, airway management, casualty monitoring, and more — all taught by instructors with real operational experience.