In childcare environments, safety is a top priority and being prepared for emergencies can make all the difference. That’s why First Aid training is not just recommended but often required for those working with children. The HLTAID012 – Provide First Aid in an education and care setting course is specifically designed for educators, childcare staff, and support workers, equipping them with the skills to respond confidently to a range of health emergencies involving infants and children.
This guide provides a complete overview of the HLTAID012 course, what it covers, who should enrol, the key benefits of certification, and how to get started. Whether you’re entering the childcare industry or looking to renew your qualifications, this blog will help you understand everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
What is HLTAID012 – Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting?
HLTAID012 – Provide First Aid in an education and care setting is a nationally recognised unit of competency tailored specifically for individuals working with children, including educators, childcare workers, and school support staff. It equips participants with the skills and knowledge to respond effectively to a range of first aid situations involving infants, children, and adults in a care or learning environment.
Unlike general first aid courses, HLTAID012 includes additional components such as managing asthma, anaphylaxis, and other conditions common in early childhood and school settings. This course meets the legal and regulatory requirements under the Education and Care Services National Law and is essential for those in roles responsible for the health and safety of young children.
Who Should Take HLTAID012?
The HLTAID012 course is ideal for anyone involved in the care and supervision of children in educational or childcare settings. This includes childcare educators, early learning staff, and preschool workers who are required to hold up-to-date first aid certification to meet workplace and legal obligations.
It’s also highly recommended for teachers, teaching assistants, and school support staff, as the course specifically focuses on managing emergencies involving children in classroom or playground settings. Even parents, nannies, and carers who regularly look after young children can benefit from HLTAID012, gaining the confidence and practical skills needed to respond to common childhood injuries or health issues.
Contact us now for Enrolling HLTAID012 Provide First Aid in an education and care setting.
Course Content and Key Skills You’ll Learn
1. CPR on Infants, Children, and Adults
One of the most critical components of the course is learning Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). You’ll be trained to perform CPR on infants, young children, and adults, as techniques vary depending on age and physical development. This skill is essential in emergency situations like cardiac arrest or drowning, where immediate action can save a life. The course covers how to assess breathing, perform chest compressions, and use a defibrillator (AED) safely and correctly.
2. Managing Asthma, Anaphylaxis, Choking, Bleeding, and Fractures
This unit prepares you to respond to some of the most common emergencies in childcare settings. You’ll learn how to recognise the signs of asthma and anaphylaxis, use inhalers and EpiPens, and administer first aid for choking incidents. You’ll also be trained to handle external bleeding, minor and severe wounds, and how to immobilise fractures and sprains using basic materials until professional help arrives.
3. Incident Reporting and Infection Control
Proper documentation and hygiene practices are vital in any care environment. The course teaches how to complete incident reports accurately and professionally, which is a regulatory requirement in most education and care settings. You’ll also learn infection control procedures such as hand hygiene, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and safely cleaning and disposing of waste, helping prevent the spread of illness in group care environments.
4. Emergency Response Planning in Childcare Settings
Being prepared is just as important as reacting in the moment. HLTAID012 covers how to develop and follow emergency action plans, including roles and responsibilities during an incident, evacuation procedures, and communication with emergency services. You’ll gain an understanding of how to remain calm under pressure, coordinate with others, and ensure children’s safety while waiting for further medical assistance.
Course Duration, Delivery & Assessment
The HLTAID012 course is designed to be flexible while ensuring thorough training, combining both theory and hands-on practice. It is commonly delivered in a blended format — meaning you’ll complete online pre-course learning at your own pace, followed by a one-day, face-to-face practical training session. Some providers may also offer full in-person sessions for those who prefer classroom learning.
During the course, you’ll complete practical demonstrations such as CPR, bandaging, and emergency simulations, as well as written assessments to confirm your understanding of key first aid principles. The face-to-face component ensures you can confidently apply your skills in real-world scenarios, particularly those relevant to childcare and education environments.
HLTAID012 Certification and Validity
Upon successfully completing the HLTAID012 – Provide First Aid in an education and care setting course, you’ll receive a Statement of Attainment issued by a nationally recognised training provider. This certification confirms that you’ve met the competency standards required to administer first aid in childcare and education environments.
The certificate is valid for three years, in line with industry standards. However, it’s recommended — and often required by employers — that you refresh the CPR component every 12 months to keep your skills sharp and compliant with current guidelines. HLTAID012 is fully recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), making it a trusted and essential credential for educators and care professionals across the country.
Entry Requirements and Prerequisites
The HLTAID012 course is open to anyone with an interest in working in childcare or education settings, and there are no formal prerequisites for enrolment. This makes it accessible for school leavers, current educators, support workers, or even parents and carers looking to enhance their first aid knowledge.
However, participants should have basic English literacy skills to complete the written assessments and understand safety instructions. Additionally, since practical CPR training involves kneeling and performing compressions on a manikin placed on the floor, a reasonable level of physical fitness is required to participate effectively in this component.
Benefits of Completing HLTAID012
Completing the HLTAID012 – Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting course ensures you meet the compliance requirements set by ACECQA (Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority) and other workplace regulations. This certification is often mandatory for educators and childcare workers, helping services maintain safe environments and meet legal standards.
Beyond compliance, the course equips you with vital skills to enhance safety and preparedness in education and care settings. You’ll be confident in handling emergencies involving children, reducing risks and providing timely care when needed.
Holding an HLTAID012 qualification also boosts your employability within the childcare and education sectors. Employers highly value staff trained in first aid as it demonstrates professionalism, responsibility, and a commitment to child safety.
How to Enrol in HLTAID012
To enrol in the HLTAID012 – Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting course, simply contact METS Training Services, where we offer this course along with a full range of accredited training options. Our experienced team will guide you through the enrolment process and help you choose the delivery method that suits your schedule—whether in-person, online, or blended learning.
Reach out to METS Training Services today to secure your spot and start gaining the essential first aid skills required for childcare and education settings. We also provide support with any questions you have about course details, prerequisites, or certification.
Conclusion
The HLTAID012 – Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting course is essential for anyone working in childcare or education. It equips you with the vital skills needed to respond confidently and effectively to emergencies involving children, ensuring their safety and wellbeing. Holding this nationally recognised certification not only meets regulatory requirements but also enhances your professionalism and employability in the sector.
Ready to get certified? Enrol in our HLTAID012 Childcare First Aid course today with METS Training Services and ensure you’re prepared to keep children safe. Contact us now to learn more or book your spot!
