Additional Course Information

Prior Learning

For individuals wishing to enrol on a course at a higher level than that previously been undertaken, Sports ER recognises prior learning. Potential participants will need to provide evidence that they have pre-existing knowledge, skills and experience and have successfully completed a course at a lower level within in the last three years. 

Participant Assessment

On all Sports ER courses appropriate standardised methods of assessment have been designed to encompass all the learning outcomes. To confirm participant acquisition of theoretical knowledge, understanding and practical skills in relation to the management of injuries and medical conditions, assessments tests are conducted using defined criteria.

Knowledge is assessed through questionnaires; competency is assessed both formatively through continuous, ‘on-going’, observation during the course and summatively in competency-based clinical scenarios.

To be ‘certified’ as competent at any particular level, participants must successfully complete both the theory assessments and show competency in all assessed skills that are undertaken on that particular course.

Resits / Retests 

Any resits (theory questionnaire assessment) or retests (practical assessment) will be conducted on completion of a day’s programme (thus not penalising participants who have successfully completed the assessments). 

Currency

The currency of Sports ER qualifications is three years. However, to avoid ‘skill fade’, whereby the quality of an individual’s skills begin to deteriorate (evidence suggests 92% of practical skills acquired during a training course will be lost within a year of completing the course, particularly if the acquired skills are not used (Arthur et al 1998*)), and ensure skill maintenance and confidence during the interval between recertification, it is strongly recommended that ‘refresher’ training is completed annually as a minimum and that it is also complemented by more frequent (twice-monthly) locally arranged ‘in-house’ team rehearsal.   

* Arthur W, Bennett W, Stanush PL, McNelly TL (1998). Factors that influence skill decay and retention: A quantitative review and analysis. Human Performance, 11(1), 57-101.

Requalification / Recertification

Due to the nature and responsibility associated with emergency care provision, and in line with current UK guidelines, Sports ER qualifications will need to be renewed every three years (as a minimum). 

To remain qualified and ‘in-date’ beyond the initial three-year period, individuals should aim to repeat a ‘full’ training course (or undertake a course at a higher level) within the final three months prior to expiry of the existing qualification.

Our Quality and Standards

Sports ER consents to a process of robust ‘external’ governance. The FPHC-endorsed courses and course materials are subject to regular appraisal to ensure on-going compliance with the teaching and educational standards of the Faculty. For re-endorsement and revalidation, these courses are dependent on a full review of all materials and an on-site assessment on a four-yearly basis. 

To facilitate continuous improvement, Sports ER also has ‘internal’ quality assurance and monitoring systems, collecting both quantitative and qualitative participant and instructor feedback to ensure our course provision and training meets the high standards we always seek to attain. We are receptive to suggestions from participants and instructors, and where appropriate make adaptations to course format, content and delivery to suit participants’ needs. Our service has consistently met our clients’ needs - see testimonials. 

Course Venue

Sports ER deliver courses at sports venues and academic institutions. To host a course, the requirements are: (i) a suitable main ‘teaching room’ to accommodate up to 24 participants for lecture and theory presentation with a projector, screen and flip chart, and (ii) a large practical space with a ‘soft’, clean floor suitable for on-the-ground activities (participants will be kneeling, sitting and lying on the ground) and to facilitate simulated injured-athlete management and the practice of evacuation from the field of play. An indoor artificial grass surface would be an example of an ideal practical area. Currently, any workspaces would need to be large enough to allow 'physical distancing’ between participants. 

Participant Numbers 

All Sports ER courses are designed for up to 24 candidates; this is to ensure a minimum instructor/participant ratio of 1:6. 

Translation

All Sport ER courses are delivered in English and all participant resources are primarily provided in English. Where required, the course resources can be provided in an alternative language. Additionally, in countries where English is not the first language, local on-site translation support can be provided for participants who may need assistance during course delivery. 

Accommodation

All Sports ER courses are non-residential. 

Course Fees

For courses in England, Scotland and Wales, the current fee per participant, which includes all participant resources, course delivery and certification, is: 

  • ‘Advanced Plus’ (three-day) course: £650

  • ‘Advanced’ (two-and-half-day) course: £495

  • ‘Intermediate’ (two-day) course: £325

  • ‘Basic’ (one-day) course: £85

  • ‘Foundation’ (three-hour) course: £40

* fee as of 1 August 2023

In other countries, the cost per participant is subject to the location, the associated costs of shipping all course resources (we are self-sustained with suitable and sufficient equipment) to the venue and any associated ‘local’ expenses incurred by Sports ER, and priced on application.