Becoming a Red Cross Instructor: Bridging from Other Organizations
https://youtu.be/XhEwT3w0jeU
Transitioning to a Red Cross instructor can be a smooth process for those already certified with other organizations. This blog will guide you through the necessary steps, requirements, and tips to successfully bridge into teaching Red Cross classes.
Understanding Instructor Bridging
The concept of instructor bridging is vital for educators who wish to expand their teaching credentials. If you are currently an instructor with another recognized organization, such as the Health and Safety Institute or the American Heart Association, you can leverage your existing qualifications to become a Red Cross instructor.
To begin this journey, you first need to have your instructor credential uploaded to the Red Cross portal. This step is crucial as it allows the Red Cross to verify your certification and ensure that you meet their standards.
Steps to Bridge Over
Once your credential is uploaded and approved, the next step is to register for what is known as a bridge course. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. **Upload Your Credential:** Log into the Red Cross portal and submit your current instructor credential for review.
2. **Get Approved:** Wait for the Red Cross to verify your certification. This step ensures that your existing qualifications are legitimate.
3. **Register for the Bridge Course:** After approval, you can register for the free online bridge course relevant to the discipline you wish to teach (e.g., CPR, first aid).
Course Structure and Options
The bridge courses are designed to be flexible and accessible. They are offered online, allowing you to complete them at your convenience. However, attending in-person training is highly recommended to gain a better understanding of the curriculum and teaching flow.
When registering for a bridge course, you will have the option to choose the specific discipline you want to teach. Here are some of the available options:
* First Aid, CPR, and AED
* Basic Life Support (BLS)
* Emergency Medical Response (EMR)
* Advanced Life Support (ALS)
* Babysitting training
* Various skill boosts (e.g., life-threatening bleeding, tourniquets)
Each course will guide you through the necessary content and teaching methods specific to that discipline, ensuring you are well-prepared to instruct students effectively.
Affiliation and Alignment with Red Cross
After completing your bridge course, the next critical step is to become affiliated with the Red Cross. Affiliation is essential because it allows you to officially teach Red Cross classes and utilize their resources. A separate video is available that provides detailed information on how to become aligned as a Red Cross instructor.
It’s important to note that simply holding an instructor card is not enough. Without proper affiliation, your ability to teach and utilize Red Cross materials will be limited. Therefore, make sure to follow through on this step once you’ve completed your training.
Final Thoughts and Support
Becoming a Red Cross instructor can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to share vital life-saving skills with others. If you have any questions about the bridging process or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. The Red Cross community is always ready to support new instructors.
Thank you for considering this important role in health and safety education. Your journey to becoming a Red Cross instructor is just a few steps away!
Red Cross, Instructor Training, Health and Safety, Bridging Process, CPR
