Level 3 Award in
First Response Emergency Care (RQF)

Fully updated and re-launched in June 2025 — Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF) (FREC® 3) — New content & streamlined assessments, fewer MCQ papers, less paperwork. More scenario-based assessments. Optional practical assessments (extended skills) (subject to clinical governance authorisation)

 

 

Intended Audience:

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The Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF) is a regulated and nationally recognised qualification, ideal for those looking to work or volunteer as a first responder.

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Among the first to arrive at a scene, first responders typically include police officers, firefighters, emergency medical services and search and rescue personnel.

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FREC® 3 meets the staffing requirements detailed in the ‘Purple Guide’ for Health, Safety, and Welfare at Outdoor Events and is the only Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCS Ed) – Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care (FPHC) endorsed qualification listed in the ‘Purple Guide’ at PHEM D. It also adheres to the standards agreed by the First Aid Awarding Organisation Forum (FAAOF) and the Health and Safety Executive for first aid qualifications.

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Ideal for those providing event medical cover or roles such as door supervisors, close protection operatives and security guards, as well as those working in high-risk environments including the military, power stations, offshore renewable energy, agriculture and manufacturing settings.

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For those with further ambitions, this qualification also forms the first step towards a career in prehospital care.

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Overview:

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This informative, hands-on course fulfils the competencies set out in the PHEM skills framework at level D, providing the practical skills needed to deal with a range of prehospital emergency care situations.

The qualification and learning outcomes are based on the recommendations of:

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• Resuscitation Council (UK)

• Assessment Principles for Regulated First Aid Qualifications

• The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh – Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care (FPHC)

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The Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF) is a 5-day course which covers: the role and responsibilities of a first responder, structured patient assessment, management of trauma patients, major illnesses, life threatening bleeding control, airway management and administration of emergency oxygen and much more.

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For re-qualification courses, the content of the course is the same but it is spread over 3-days.

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For a more detailed overview of the topics covered, please see the Qualification Specification (below)

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Assessment Methods:

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• 6 x Mandatory practical assessments

• 1 x Multiple choice question paper

• 1 x invigilated exam.

• 5 x Optional Practical Assessments (Extended Skills)*

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*Completion of Optional Practical Assessments (Extended Skills) are subject to clinical governance authorisation and will be clearly stipulated on the certificate.

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Certification:

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Successful learners will receive a personalised Qualsafe Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF) e-Certificate immediately after their results have been submitted. 

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This qualification is not a license to practice. Any interventions performed as part of your role must be in line with your own / organisational scope of practice and agreed ways of working.

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Cost:

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Acquisition courses:                from £395 per learner, including Lunch and Refreshments 

Re-qualification courses:      from £245 per learner, including Lunch and Refreshments

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** RECEIVE A £50 VOUCHER off the cost of a FREC 4,

when you complete a FREC 3 course with us!! ***

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Extended Skills:

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Due to the additional time and resources, if you are eligible and wish to undertake any extended skills, please add the following surcharges to the above prices:

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We offer discounts for armed forces and group bookings. Please contact us for an individual quotation. We can also deliver this course at your workplace (subject to venue requirements being met). Please contact us if you would like us to come to you!

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Recognition of Prior Learning:

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Qualsafe Awards recognise that some learners may have completed courses in the past which may qualify them for undertaking a reduced 2-day FREC 3 course. For more information on this, please see the FREC 3 RPL Guidance Document.

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The cost per learner for a 2-day FREC 3 RPL Course is £225 per learner, including Lunch and Refreshments

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