6 Top Tips to Becoming an IPAF Instructor

As the most rapidly expanding training company in the UK, Certora Training are always interested in recruiting qualified instructors who are prepared to undergo the relevant instructor training to work towards a progressive career in the industry.

To recruit the right instructors for the job, Certora Training have established a key set of criteria to becoming a skilled IPAF Instructor.

1. Qualifications
   To be eligible to complete the instructor course, it is crucial for the individual to have held an IPAF Operator PAL card for a minimum of 6 months and an IPAF Demonstrator PAL card held for a minimum of 3 months; without these 2 PAL
   cards, an instructor card cannot be issued.
   
   
2. Training Requirements
   The operator must also have the following mandatory training experience in order to progress to becoming a fully qualified IPAF Instructor:
   - 3 years proven experience operating mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPS)
   - Completion of an IPAF approved harness instructor course
   - Evidence of acceptable instructional techniques training
   
   
3. First Aid
   It is required that the operator in question has evidence of completing a First Aid training course: a 'First Aid at Work' training level would be preferred. The operator must have a clear understanding of the basic principles to be carried out in the event of an accident in the workplace.
   
   
4. Working at Height
   The operator must have an aptitude to working at height and have the appropriate physical capabilities and training to do so. It is also important that for the instructor to consider a rescue plan for when working off the ground to ensure delegate safety.
   
   
5. Teaching Practices
   The operator must have a natural ability to teach and feel comfortable motivating others and educating delegates on how to safely work at height. The operator should encourage active learning and be pro-active in his/her roles. The delegates should be given the opportunity to ask questions, reflect on what they have learned and receive the option to suggest areas for improvement on the course.
   
   
6. Skill-set
   The operator must have the ability to use their own initiative and have strong performance management skills in order to monitor the delegate's performance throughout the duration of the course.
   A willingness to travel to undertake training courses is vital along with good interpersonal and communication skills.

If you require more information on becoming an IPAF Instructor or are interested in talking to a member of our Access team, call us today 01246 386900