SMHFA:YP - course structure 

The SMHFA: YP course is a 14-hour blended learning training course. The term 'blended' means that the course is a mixture of self-study, which is undertaken online using NHS Health Scotland's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) together with a one-day face to face component. There are three parts to the course:  

Part 1: self-study module – 3 hours
Understanding the context for mental health first aid for young people

Part 2: face to face training – 7 hours
Developing the skills to apply mental health first aid with young people

Part 3: self-study module – 4 hours
Deepening understanding of mental health problems and young people

Once you have registered on a course, your SMHFA:YP instructor will send you details to allow you to access the VLE to complete Part 1. Throughout Part 1 of the course, to test your understanding, you will be asked to reflect on statements, answer multiple choice questions and consider case studies. At the end of the Part 1 you will have to submit a set of assessment questions to your SMHFA:YP trainer, after which you will be able to print a certificate to show that you have completed Part 1 successfully.

You must complete this Part 1 module before attending the next phase of the training. You will need to bring the certificate gained at the end of this module to Part 2, face to face training sessions. If you have not completed Part 1 of the course you will not be able to complete Part 2.

Following Part 2, face to face training, the blended learning will continue with Part 3 – a four-hour self-study module which will seek to deepen your understanding of mental health problems for young people and increase your confidence and competence in becoming a mental health first aider.

After completing all three parts you will receive a certificate confirming your ‘Scotland’s Mental Health First Aider for young people’ status.