This study assessed the Basic Life Support (BLS) knowledge, skills and performance of Medical Assistants before and after training in a mock cardiac arrest scenario while undergoing training with retention of skills at 0,3 and 6 months. Materials and methods : Eighty nine paramedics undergoing training were assessed for baseline knowledge after ab–initio training, given BLS training as per standard protocol and were assessed before and after and at 3 and six months for performance and retention of skills. They were assessed on a scale of 10 by the OSCE method. Results : The performance of students receiving structured training had better scores for with good retention of skills