This one-day practical After Action Review (AAR) training course equips healthcare professionals with the essential tools to prepare for and lead a structured After Action Review within a healthcare context. With a focus on embracing the Patient Safety Incident Response Framework (PSIRF), you’ll learn how to make AARs effective, psychologically safe and highly constructive—turning incidents and near-misses into actionable improvement.
What you will learn on our Practical After Action Review Skills Training
- Facilitate effective After Action Reviews (AARs) that support healthcare incident learning and systems improvement
- Prepare thoroughly for an AAR by defining scope, gathering evidence, and organising participants
- Create psychological safety and guide productive team discussions during the AAR meeting
- Understand the role and purpose of AARs within healthcare learning systems
- Use the four key AAR questions confidently in practice
- Identify learning opportunities and complete the national AAR template
- Close the loop for improvement by turning insights into clear actions
- Manage group dynamics, quieter contributors, and contentious issues during AAR discussions
Course format & logistics
- Duration: One full day (virtual or in-person)
- Format: Interactive workshop with practical exercises
- CPD-accredited and tailored for NHS and care settings
- Includes: Templates, structures and take-home tools
- Public course format and fee: virtual £200 + vat per person
- In-house course format and fee: virtual £2500 + vat and in-person £3500 + vat
Why this course is different
Led by seasoned healthcare investigation experts, this practical after action review training course bridges the gap between theory and practice. You’ll walk away not only with knowledge but skills—ready to conduct AARs that genuinely deliver learning and change within your organisation.
“This training will make a huge difference to my practice. It will change how I undertake AARs and how I look at all patient safety incidents. You have given me a methodology which works and makes sense!!”
Patient Safety Manager
Useful links
WHO Guidance for After Action Reviews
JRSM Article on UCLH AAR Experience
Quick links
