Breathing Apparatus Instructor

The SFJ Level 3 Award in Breathing Apparatus Instruction is designed for experienced BA wearers who are responsible for developing and maintaining operational competence within their organisation. The programme equips delegates with the knowledge and practical skills required to plan, deliver, assess, and review BA training in both classroom and realistic operational environments.

Throughout the course, delegates will develop a comprehensive understanding of BA procedures, equipment, physiology, risk management, and instructional methodologies. Successful completion of the programme leads to a nationally recognised qualification in Breathing Apparatus Instruction.

The qualification comprises two mandatory units:

• Unit 1: Knowledge of Breathing Apparatus Instruction
• Unit 2: Deliver Instruction in the Use of Breathing Apparatus

Key Benefits

• Gain current, nationally aligned knowledge of Breathing Apparatus procedures, equipment, and instructional practice.
• Develop the confidence and competence to plan, deliver, and assess BA training programmes.
• Enhance instructional techniques, learner engagement, assessment, and feedback skills.
• Strengthen operational understanding of BA safety, physiology, risk management, and emergency procedures.
• Build practical competence through realistic training scenarios and instructor-led performance assessments.
• Achieve a nationally recognised qualification that supports professional development and operational training capability.

Who Should Attend?

This programme is suitable for:

• Fire and Rescue Service personnel responsible for delivering Breathing Apparatus training.
• Existing instructors seeking a formal BA instructional qualification.
• Experienced BA wearers progressing into training and development roles.
• Operational personnel responsible for maintaining BA competence within their organisation.
• Emergency response professionals seeking to enhance their instructional and assessment capabilities.

What You Will Learn

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to:

• Explain the principles, procedures, and operational application of Breathing Apparatus.
• Instruct learners in the safe use, testing, maintenance, and operation of BA equipment.
• Understand the physiology of respiration and the effects of heat, humidity, stress, and workload on BA wearers.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safe systems of work during BA training activities.
• Plan, deliver, and evaluate effective BA training sessions using recognised instructional methodologies.
• Assess learner performance and provide constructive developmental feedback.
• Facilitate realistic BA exercises, practical scenarios, and structured debriefs to enhance operational competence.
• Apply current operational guidance and best practice to BA instruction and assessment.

Delegates must:

• Hold a recognised teaching, training, or instructional qualification.
• Be medically fit for operational duties in accordance with organisational requirements.
• Be a competent Breathing Apparatus wearer with relevant operational experience.
• Demonstrate knowledge and experience consistent with current operational guidance for Breathing Apparatus.

Delivery Format

The programme combines classroom-based learning, practical workshops, scenario-based exercises, and instructor-led assessments.

Throughout the course, delegates will participate in a variety of learning activities designed to develop both theoretical understanding and practical instructional competence. These include:

• Interactive classroom sessions
• Practical equipment workshops
• Scenario-based BA training exercises
• Risk assessment activities
• Instructional practice and coaching
• Practical Performance Assessments
• Structured debriefing and reflective learning

This blended approach ensures delegates develop the knowledge, confidence, and capability required to deliver effective BA training within operational environments.

⏱️ Course Duration - 10 Days

🎓 Accreditation - Certification Awarded SFJ Level 3