Paul,
I haven't done my Rescue course, so couldn't really comment as to how the instructor would run the course and/or change beyond the usual routine.
One suggestion would be to make it more fun - try not to make it sound too serious (yes, I know it is a serious subject). That way, it gives the group (and you as the instructor) more bonding during the course and lightens up the attitude.
Are you referring to the classroom work or the rescue scenarios?