Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (FREC®3)
Course Overview
The FREC®3 qualification provides learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to respond safely, effectively and confidently to a wide range of pre-hospital emergency situations. This course builds a strong foundation in first response care, enabling learners to assess, treat and manage patients in both emergency and urgent care environments. It also forms the first step in the recognised FREC® qualification pathway for those pursuing careers in pre-hospital care.
Intended Audience
This course is ideal for individuals working or aspiring to work in roles requiring emergency response capabilities, including event medics, security staff, emergency services personnel, and those seeking progression toward clinical roles such as AHPs, nurses or paramedics.
Topics Covered
Learners will engage with a wide range of practical and theoretical content, including:
- Patient assessment and scene management
- Airway management and oxygen therapy
- Trauma care (catastrophic bleeding, fractures, burns and more)
- Management of medical emergencies
- Basic life support and automated external defibrillation
- Safe moving and handling
- Recognition and management of major illness and injury
- Optional extended clinical skills (subject to eligibility)
Entry Requirements
- Learners must be at least 17 years old on the first day of training.
- There are no formal academic entry requirements, however learners will benefit from having:
- Literacy skills at Level 2 or equivalent, and
- A basic understanding of first aid.
- Only learners who operate under clinical direction and within a governance framework may be taught and assessed using the FREC®3 Optional Practical Assessment (Extended Skills). An Extended Skills Authorisation Form must be submitted to the Approved Centre before any extended skills training can take place.
Progression
Successful completion of FREC®3 enables progression to higher-level qualifications, including the Qualsafe Level 4 Certificate in First Response Emergency Care (FREC®4). It may also support career development in related professions such as Allied Health, Nursing, and Paramedicine.
Requalification Requirements
The FREC®3 qualification is valid for 3 years. To remain qualified, learners must re-take the full qualification before the certificate expiry date. Failure to requalify before expiry means the individual is no longer considered competent to act as a FREC®3 provider.