“Laurence was really helpful and always doubled checked we had understood the section we had just covered! Thank you very much!”
About Us
White Cross Training was established by Laurence and Sam Peacock with a mission to make our first aid courses the best you’ve been on. We know that training that leaves you feeling confident and ready to respond can make all the difference in an emergency. Our courses are fun and very hands-on. Based on real-life scenarios, you will learn vital knowledge and practise first aid skills in a highly supportive, relaxed environment.
Meet Our Team
Our small team is made up of passionate, experienced people who love helping others learn and practise first aid skills so that they finish their course feeling confident.
Sam Peacock
Organiser!
As the Diary Manager, I am the one who answers enquiries, makes bookings, registers courses, orders equipment, submits paperwork and sends certificates out, and alongside Laurence, ensures that he, Alan and Mark have everything they need to run their courses. Having recently left my job as a primary school teacher, I am thrilled to be able to work from home, running a business whilst looking after our children – I really couldn’t wish for anything more, other than more time in each day! I always do my best to respond to everyone as quickly as I can because I know that when you have something to organise, you just want to get it done.
Laurence Peacock
First Aid Instructor / Founder
As a first aid instructor: Whilst working within the healthcare and leisure sectors, many people tested out my first aid skills and they live to tell the tale! In 2010, I undertook the training required to become an instructor and have run courses all over Devon and Cornwall for individuals, families, small and large businesses. I have recently undertaken a First Responder on Scene course to further enhance my skills, knowledge and understanding of providing appropriate care to a casualty prior to the arrival of an ambulance. This training will benefit anyone attending a first aid course with White Cross Training. I am a down-to-earth, friendly and cheerful person and I pride myself on making my courses feel relaxed and enjoyable.
Aside from being a first aid instructor: I moved to Plymouth from Kent in my early 20s. Having moved around a bit (actually, quite a lot), I felt at home and have been here ever since. I love the sea and woodland walks and enjoy playing hockey. Age is catching me up now though and if I can squeeze a game in, I’m equipped with a knee brace and ibuprofen gel! I also coach hockey to children and adults once a week. If I’m not out working, my wife Sam and our two gorgeous little girls keep me on my toes. So life is pretty full-on, but that’s how I like it!
Alan Penn
First Aid Instructor
As a first aid instructor: I have been trained in first aid for over 30 years. I worked as a First Responder within the Ambulance Service and had an extended first aid role in the outdoor environment as a Specialist Surveillance Officer. I worked within the training and development unit of Sussex Police providing nationally accredited courses. I now work as an Outdoor Instructor and deliver first aid courses with White Cross Training. I make my courses as practical and relaxed as possible.
Aside from being a first aid instructor: I have lived on Dartmoor for the last 16 years and I am married with two adult children. I have a passion for the outdoors, in particular climbing, kayaking, coastal exploration, walking and skiing in the mountains. I have travelled extensively and intend to continue to explore and travel the world.
Mark Pickering
First Aid Instructor
As a first aid instructor: Along with volunteering as a member of the Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team since 2002, I have had experience working as a First Responder. I have also been on the First Aid Team in a primary school for the last 20 years. I love having the opportunity to teach others essential skills so that they may help others in need. I am passionate that people learn best through experiences and try to teach with a sense of humour to ensure learning points are more memorable.
Aside from being a first aid instructor: Originally from Lancashire, I have lived in Devon since 1996, working as a primary school teacher in Plymouth. My love of the outdoors led me to qualify as a Forest School Practitioner. In my spare time, I enjoy watching my local rugby team, following the National Football League, Formula One and cricket. As my 2 children are old enough to entertain themselves (most of the time!), I have recently rediscovered reading. When we get the opportunity, my family and I enjoy a good potter on the moor or by the sea.
What our delegates say...
At the end of every course delegates are provided with the opportunity to leave feedback and we are proud to say that our score is mostly 5/5.
Below is just some of the feedback that White Cross Training has received.
“I wanted to message you to say a huge thank you for today. The feedback from myself and the team was fabulous! They all enjoyed it and felt the course…
“The course was fun, interactive, covered enough topics in the right amount of depth for both my 9 & 5 year olds. I loved how you let the kids lead…
“Highly recommend. Very much child led and the leader Laurence was very attentive of children’s needs”
“Thanks For an amazing training session”
“Really enjoyed the scenarios and fake blood! Very interactive and really enjoyed the course.”
“The Course was amazing and Laurence was very helpful and welcoming.”
“I had already taken a pet first aid course before but wanted to refresh my skills and found this one much more in-depth and hands on”