First Aid Training for Duke of Edinburgh Students and Leaders:
How DAC Education Supports Schools with their DofE programme
It’s that time of year again when new and keen young people are beginning their exciting adventure on the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. With some of our instructors being Duke of Edinburgh Supervisors themselves, we know how transformative the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) can be. It promotes resilience, teamwork, problem solving and independence, all attributes that equip students with skills for life.
Our speciality in expedition training comes into full force for the expedition section though. One skill that is absolutely essential is first aid training, for both the leaders and the students.
Knowing the basics of first aid knowledge really isn’t just about ticking a box, it’s about keeping young people safe and confident while out on expedition and in day to day life.
Is First Aid Training essential for DofE?
One hundred percent, yes! The expedition element of the Duke of Edinburgh Award takes students into unfamiliar and sometimes remote environments. Teachers, leaders and supervisors cannot prevent every accident but they can make sure that the students know how to respond.
Typical incidents on DofE expeditions include:
- Blisters and sprains from long distance walking
- Cuts, grazes and burns from campcraft
- Dehydration, heat exhaustion or even hypothermia
- Allergic reactions and insect bites and stings
Benefits for Schools and Teachers
All first aid knowledge is good knowledge but ensuring any first aid training that is taken is specifically geared towards the environment it may be used in, is not only going to elevate the chances of a good outcome but also enhance the DofE experience.
Why take a first aid course specifically for DofE expeditions?
- Peace of mind for staff and parents – knowing students can respond to emergencies.
- Safer expeditions – reducing the risk of minor issues becoming major problems.
- Stronger learning outcomes – first aid builds on the core values of the scheme independence, teamwork and resilience.
- Compliance with DofE expectations – many centres recommend or require first aid training for participants and leaders.
For teachers, having first aid trained leaders on expeditions also means less worry and more focus on guiding students through a positive DofE experience.
What DAC Education’s First Aid Training Covers for the students
Students learn to stay calm, take immediate action and support their team until a member of staff or professional help arrives. Our courses are practical, engaging and tailored to the needs of DofE students. Key topics include:
- Treating cuts, blisters, and burns
- Managing sprains and fractures
- Recognising and treating hypothermia, heat exhaustion and dehydration
- First aid for allergic reactions and asthma attacks
- Knowing when and how to call for emergency help
What DAC Education’s First Aid Training Covers for the Leaders, Supervisors and Teachers
Leaders and staff should receive more advanced first aid training, preparing them for prolonged care in outdoor settings, ensuring you can manage incidents when professional support is not immediately available.
- 16 hour Outdoor First Aid (VTQ) Level 3 – taught in the forest of Sutton Hoo
- Lowland Expedition Leader (LEL) level 3
- First Response Emergency Care (FREC) Level 3
- First Responder On Scene (FROS) Level 3
Why choose DAC Education for First Aid Training and DofE Support?
This is one of our specialities in supporting schools and teachers delivering the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Our instructors have mountains (yep, pun intended) of experience understanding the unique challenges of expeditions and tailored training to fit the realities of a school led programme.
What’s special about our DofE Instructors?
They’ve been there and done that…and more
- Active Community First Responders
- Active Search and Rescue Professionals
- Global Expeditions Leaders
- Mountain leaders
By choosing DAC instructors, you’ll also receive:
- Experienced DBS checked instructors
- Courses aligned with DofE requirements
- Practical sessions that engage students
- Flexible delivery in school or at our site
Equip Your DofE Students and Leaders with Essential First Aid Skills
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is about more than expeditions, it’s about preparing young people for life. First aid training is one of the most valuable skills they can learn, with benefits that extend far beyond the award itself.
If your school is preparing for the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme (DofE) either Bronze, Silver or Gold, we’d love to help support you deliver safe and successful expeditions.
