Accredited Cardiac Life Support Training in Singapore
BCLS Course in Singapore: Basic Cardiac Life Support Certification
BCLS is the cardiac resuscitation qualification that healthcare-adjacent settings specify when standard CPR+AED is not enough. If your employer at a nursing home, rehabilitation centre, or clinical facility has asked for BCLS certification by name, this is the course.
The Basic Cardiac Life Support programme at JustSwim follows clinical resuscitation protocols, covers two-rescuer CPR and team scenarios, and results in an accredited BCLS certification in Singapore recognised by healthcare employers.
- Accredited BCLS certification
- Recognised for healthcare-adjacent roles
- Experienced, certified instructors
What Is BCLS (Basic Cardiac Life Support)?
BCLS stands for Basic Cardiac Life Support. It is an accredited cardiac resuscitation qualification that trains participants in clinical-level resuscitation protocols, including one-rescuer and two-rescuer CPR, AED use, and team-based emergency response. It is the standard certification required by nursing homes, rehabilitation centres, hospitals, and clinical support employers in Singapore.
BCLS sits a tier above the standard CPR+AED course. While both cover CPR and AED use, BCLS follows the clinical guidelines used in healthcare settings, includes coordinated two-rescuer resuscitation, and carries greater recognition in healthcare employment contexts. It is not a higher-level version of CPR+AED for the general public. It is a different qualification for a different professional context. The CPR and AED course is certified by the Singapore Resuscitation and First Aid Council (SRFAC).
What Does the BCLS Course Cover?
The Basic Cardiac Life Support course covers the following:
- One-rescuer CPR: correct technique, compression depth, rate, and rescue breaths for adults, children, and infants.
- Two-rescuer CPR: coordinated compressions and ventilations between two trained responders, with role switching.
- AED use: powering on, pad placement, following clinical prompts, and resuming CPR after a shock, following. healthcare-level protocols
- Recognising cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest, and stroke: the clinical signs that determine the correct emergency response.
- Airway management basics: head tilt, chin lift, and jaw thrust techniques for maintaining an open airway.
- Team resuscitation: assigning roles, communicating clearly, and maintaining quality CPR during a coordinated response.
- Choking relief: Heimlich manoeuvre and back blows for adults, children, and infants.
Both a written assessment and a hands-on practical evaluation are included. Participants must demonstrate competency in both components to receive BCLS certification.
Who Should Do the BCLS Course?
The BCLS course is the correct choice for:
- Nursing home staff and healthcare support workers whose employers require BCLS certification as a condition of employment or annual renewal.
- Rehabilitation centre and clinic assistants working directly with patients in a clinical or support capacity.
- Allied health professionals including physiotherapy assistants, occupational therapy support staff, and similar roles.
- Gym trainers and fitness coaches whose employers have specifically required BCLS rather than CPR+AED.
- Individuals working regularly with medically vulnerable populations, where clinical-level resuscitation knowledge is a reasonable expectation.
- BCLS certificate holders due for renewal before the two-year expiry date.
If your employer has not specifically asked for BCLS by name, the standard CPR and AED course in Singapore is most likely the right option. If you are comparing the two and not sure which one your role requires, see the comparison section below.
BCLS vs CPR+AED: Which One Do You Need?
Corporate and group bookings are available. Contact JustSwim directly for group pricing.
| CPR+AED Course | BCLS Course | |
| Who it is for | General public, coaches, sports and education professionals | Healthcare-adjacent roles, nursing homes, clinical settings |
| Duration | Half a day (4 to 6 hours) | 8 hours |
| Protocol level | Community CPR guidelines | Clinical resuscitation protocols |
| Two-rescuer CPR | Not typically included | Included |
| AED use | Yes | Yes |
| Team resuscitation | Not covered | Covered |
| Best for | Workplace compliance, sports, coaching, community | Nursing homes, clinics, hospitals, healthcare support |
Rule of thumb: If your employer is in a healthcare-adjacent setting and has named BCLS as the required qualification, take BCLS. If they have not specifically asked for BCLS, the CPR+AED course is the standard choice and is sufficient for most roles outside of healthcare.
If you are unsure, our guide to types of first aid courses available in Singapore covers the full comparison across all four main certifications.
BCLS Course Details
| Duration | 8 hours |
| Format | Classroom theory plus hands-on practical assessment |
| Certification validity | 2 years from date of completion |
| Maximum class size | 12 pax |
| Location | MEDICAM Blk 165 Bukit Merah Central #03-3685 S(150165) |
| SkillsFuture claimable | No |
BCLS Course Fees
| Standard fee | $145 per participant |
| After SkillsFuture Credit | NA |
Renewing Your BCLS Certification in Singapore
BCLS certification is valid for two years from the date of completion. Renewal is required before the expiry date to maintain your qualified status with your employer.
If your certification is still valid: Book a BCLS refresher course in Singapore at least four to six weeks before the expiry date on your certificate. JustSwim offers a standalone BCLS refresher course for renewal, provided the certification is expiring or has expired within the last 3 months. Otherwise, participants may be required to retake the full course depending on eligibility. The refresher covers updated clinical resuscitation guidelines and includes a practical reassessment.
If your certification has already lapsed: You may need to complete the full BCLS programme again. Contact JustSwim to confirm which applies to your situation based on how long your certificate has been expired.
SkillsFuture for renewal: No, the BCLS refresher course is not SkillsFuture claimable.
Get Your BCLS Certification at JustSwim Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions About BCLS Course In Singapore
What Is BCLS Certification In Singapore?
BCLS stands for Basic Cardiac Life Support. BCLS certification is an accredited qualification in Singapore that confirms the holder is trained in clinical-level cardiac resuscitation protocols, including one-rescuer and two-rescuer CPR, AED use, and team resuscitation procedures. It is most commonly required by nursing homes, rehabilitation centres, and clinical support employers in Singapore.
What Is The Difference Between BCLS And CPR+AED?
The CPR+AED course covers community-level cardiac emergency response and is suitable for coaches, sports professionals, and the general public. The BCLS course follows clinical resuscitation protocols, includes two-rescuer CPR and team coordination scenarios, and carries greater recognition in healthcare employment settings. If your employer is in a healthcare-adjacent setting and has specified BCLS by name, you need the BCLS course. For all other roles, the CPR+AED course is the standard choice.
How Long Does The BCLS Course Take In Singapore?
The BCLS course in Singapore typically runs for approximately 8 hours, covering both classroom theory and a hands-on practical assessment.
How Long Is BCLS Certification Valid In Singapore?
BCLS certification is valid for two years from the date of completion. Before your certification lapses, you must complete an approved BCLS refresher course with an accredited provider to renew your qualified status.
Do You Offer A Standalone Refresher? Is It SkillsFuture Claimable? Are There Any Validity Rules?
Yes, we offer a standalone CPR + AED refresher course (4 hours, $110 per pax) for participants with certifications that are expiring or have expired within the last 3 months. All classes require a minimum of 4 participants to commence. The refresher course is not SkillsFuture claimable.
How Do I Renew My BCLS Certification In Singapore?
To renew your BCLS certification, enrol in a BCLS refresher course before your current certificate expires. The refresher covers updated clinical resuscitation protocols and is shorter than the full programme. If your certification has already lapsed, contact JustSwim to confirm whether you are eligible for the refresher or need to complete the full BCLS course again.
What Is The Difference Between BCLS And The Standard First Aid Course?
BCLS focuses entirely on cardiac resuscitation at a clinical protocol level. The Standard First Aid (SFA) course is a broader two-day programme that covers CPR, AED, and a full range of emergency scenarios including bleeding, burns, fractures, and choking, and is required for designated workplace first aiders under the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act. BCLS is not a substitute for SFA for workplace compliance purposes.