If you want a career in pre-hospital emergency care, you will soon meet two names: FREC 3 and FREC 4. They sound similar and they are linked, but they are not the same course. Here is a plain guide to the difference and which one you need.
The short answer
FREC 3
Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care
- The starting point for pre-hospital care
- No previous FREC qualification needed
- Practical, hands-on training
FREC 4
Level 4 Certificate in First Response Emergency Care
- Builds on FREC 3 with higher-level skills
- Needs a current FREC 3 or recognised equivalent
- For people progressing in the sector
Both are regulated qualifications awarded by Qualsafe. UK Training Services Ltd delivers them as a Qualsafe registered centre in Rowley Regis, West Midlands, in small classes of six.
FREC 3 and FREC 4 side by side
| FREC 3 | FREC 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification | Level 3 Award in First Response Emergency Care (RQF) | Level 4 Certificate in First Response Emergency Care (RQF) |
| Awarded by | Qualsafe | Qualsafe |
| Best for | Starting out in pre-hospital care | Progressing in the sector |
| Entry requirements | No previous FREC qualification or formal prerequisites. Learners must meet the minimum age (confirmed when you book) and be able to take part in practical training | Age 18 or over, a current FREC 3 or recognised equivalent, and evidence of 118 hours of relevant CPD |
| Class size | Up to 6 learners | Up to 6 learners |
| How long it lasts | Certificate valid for 3 years, then you requalify | No formal expiry, but you must keep a CPD portfolio and keep your life support skills current |
What is FREC 3?
FREC 3 teaches you how to give pre-hospital emergency care. Much of the course is practical, so you spend your time practising on realistic scenarios rather than only listening.
You learn scene safety and casualty assessment, airway management, CPR and AED use, bleeding control, how to recognise shock, and how to manage common medical and trauma emergencies.
It suits people starting a career in ambulance or pre-hospital care, event medical teams, security and door staff who want a higher level of emergency care, and private ambulance service staff and volunteers. Read our full guide, FREC 3 explained, or see the FREC 3 course page.
What is FREC 4?
FREC 4 builds on FREC 3 with a higher level of knowledge and skills, and develops how you approach and manage casualties while working alongside other professionals. It covers patient assessment and management, emergency trauma care, and focused emergency and urgent care.
Because it is a step up, there are entry rules. You must be 18 or over, hold a current FREC 3 or a Qualsafe-recognised equivalent, and show evidence of 118 hours of relevant CPD. Check your eligibility with us before you book. Full details are on the FREC 4 course page.
Which one should you choose?
Start with FREC 3. There are no formal prerequisites, and you cannot skip it to reach FREC 4.
FREC 4 is your next step, once you have the CPD hours.
You will need to requalify before you can use it as the entry route to FREC 4. Contact us and we will look at your situation.
Check the job adverts or the organisation you want to work for. Employers set their own requirements, so find out what they ask for first.
Keeping your qualification valid
Complete a requalification course before your certificate expires.
No formal expiry, but you must keep a CPD portfolio and refresher training. Qualsafe recommends annual immediate life support updates.
Planning further ahead? FREC 5 and FREC 6 also exist and are offered by some training providers. We currently deliver FREC 3 and FREC 4, and we will happily help you plan the steps.
Common questions
Can I take FREC 4 without FREC 3?
No. You need a current FREC 3 or a Qualsafe-recognised equivalent, plus evidence of 118 hours of relevant CPD.
Is FREC 4 harder than FREC 3?
It is a higher-level qualification with more demanding content and a CPD requirement, so expect to do more work than on FREC 3.
Do both courses involve practical training?
Yes. Both include classroom and practical training with the right equipment.
How many people are in a class?
Up to six learners, so everyone gets hands-on practice.
Ready to book your FREC course?
Classes are small, so places fill up. Call us and we will help you choose the right level.
Call 07575 276079Compare FREC courses