Life-saving CPR sessions

The ‘Character Education’ funding means over 8,000 primary and secondary school students in Yorkshire and the Humber have benefitted from free training sessions in vitals skills, such as how to put someone in the recovery position or give chest compressions.

And as part of the programme, led by charity st John Ambulance, scores of schools have gone on to appoint teachers and students as ‘First Aid Champions’ and set up after-school first aid clubs, which are eligible for training equipment and further support from St John Ambulance.

Paul Cairns, the charity’s schools and community projects co-ordinator for the region, said: “It has been a great success, we’ve had superb feedback. We have done the training, identified and equipped the champions and are ready to create on-going learning via clubs and assemblies, creating a legacy of first aid in schools.”

More than 100 primary school students at Manor Lodge Primary School took part in the training and eight young First Aid Champions were appointed as a result.

Teacher Liane Kelly, said: “The children at Manor Lodge had a fun and valuable experience with St John Ambulance. The hands-on activities got the children motivated and engaged from the start.

“Our first aid champions are already telling me how they have helped children when they have fallen and hurt themselves in the playground. The sessions were a success and the children definitely learned some essential life skills.”

Schools interested in taking part should visit www.sja.co.uk/bigfirstaidlesson or call 01924 262726 for details.