Director
Jon Giddings
During my career in the Royal Air Force I found my love for teaching. I started by delivering practical training on mechanical handling equipment, aircraft and airfield support vehices, and dangerous goods by road.
Later, I had the opportunity to move into a train-the-trainer role where I delivered personal and professional development courses. I primarily delivered courses such as:
- The Defence Trainer Course – This also encompassed the Level 3 Award in Education and Training (RQF).
- RAF Workplace Trainer.
- Thriving at Work – Defence’s equivalent to the Level 3 Award in Understanding Mental Health in the Workplace for Managers (RQF).
- Advanced Care of Trainees – Defence’s equivalent to Safeguarding for trainers.
- Aviator Development Foundation Programme – A junior leadership course to support individuals to will be a team-leader/supervisor in command of a small team.
Upon leaving the RAF after 22 years, it is this enthusiasm and passion for learning and development that led to the development of Leap Forward Training.
picture TBC
The company
Leap Forward Training Ltd
In 2025, Leap Forward Training Ltd was set up, with the intention to begin trading in 2026. Its mission was simple, to provide good quality, safe training at excellent value without compromising on quality. After meeting a few hurdles along the way, the metaphorical doors are planned to be swung open in April 2026.
Leap Forward Training specialises in delivering First Aid training designed to give people the confidence and skills to respond effectively in an emergency. We also believe that lifesaving knowledge should extend beyond the workplace, which is why we are committed to offering community-based Basic Life Support training.
Our aim is simple: to equip as many people as possible with the skills needed to help keep someone alive until professional medical assistance arrives.
Founded by Jon Giddings following a 22-year career in the Royal Air Force, Leap Forward Training has been built on a genuine passion for learning and development. Drawing on extensive experience delivering both technical and professional training, we strive to create a safe, engaging and supportive learning environment where every delegate feels empowered to ask questions, practise new skills and leave with increased confidence and knowledge.
We are proud to work with individuals, small businesses and members of the Armed Forces community transitioning into civilian life. As we continue our journey, our focus remains unchanged: to provide high-quality, safe and accessible training at a fair price, ensuring that cost never becomes a barrier to gaining essential lifesaving skills.
Many of our courses are delivered inline with nationally recognised standards and supported by qualifications regulated through First Aid Awards awarding body.
picture TBC