The Power of First Aid in Schools

News from St John - 14 Jul 2023

This term 5,820 students across 14 schools statewide will be better equipped to save a life, signing up to our First Aid in Schools program. This hugely success program provides children the skills and confidence to save a life, by training them to administer vital First Aid in the face of an emergency.  

In 2022 21,000 children were trained state-wide, with the program made possible thanks to dozens of volunteers.

Our Dedicated Volunteers:  

One of our dedicated volunteers Allie, a paramedical student, joined the program to ‘give back to her local community’ but also utilise the skills she is learning at university. 

She shares with us her experience and why she sees such value in the program:   

The Joy of Interacting with Kids:  

 “One of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering is the interaction with the children. Each day is filled with enthusiasm and excitement as we take the kids through the program. 

 It is a delight to witness their engagement and keep their attention by making the learning experience fun.  

Their enthusiasm and curiosity bring a sense of joy and fulfillment that is truly magical.   

The questions they ask and the stories they share create an atmosphere of learning and connection that leaves me with a cup so very full.”

Why Volunteer for St John Ambulance Queensland First Aid in Schools program?  

“As a mother, I realised that my daughter did not have access to such an incredible program during my daughter’s primary school years.  

This combined with my passion for paramedicine and my family’s tradition of community volunteering, motivated me to give back to the community in a First Aid role.  

St John Ambulance’s reputation as an international renowned community service provider further solidified my desire to be involved.” 

Memorable Positive Experiences 

“While volunteering for First Aid in Schools, I have had the privilege of witnessing some truly remarkable moments.  

One of those experiences is when a year 4 student in one of my classes received a QAS Bravery Award for his quick thinking and knowledge of DRSABCD (Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defib).  

His training through the First Aid in Schools program gave him the confidence to assist a trusted adult during a medical emergency, resulting in a positive outcome. Seeing this fellow students’ pride and the impact of the program on their understanding of First Aid was an incredibly fulfilling experience.

The second memorable experience occurred when a year 5 student approached me after a session to discuss a personal concern.  

This student, a foster child, had multiple addresses where they stayed and was worried about having only one First Aid in School fridge magnet to provide the necessary address details in case of an emergency.  

This conversation opened my eyes to the significance of the program and its impact on each individual participant. 

 It prompted me to ensure that this student received multiple magnets for their different addresses, highlighting the importance of tailoring the program to meet the unique needs of every child.”

The Power of Volunteering  

“Volunteering for First Aid in Schools has been a life-changing experience for me.   

The joy of interacting with children, the opportunity to make a positive impact, and the personal growth it has fostered have made this program truly magical.  

Through First Aid in Schools, we empower children with essential First Aid knowledge, instill confidence, and promote a sense of community responsibility.” 

Want to get involved? 

Become a First Aid in Schools Volunteer

Our First Aid in Schools program is delivered by dedicated highly-trained volunteer educators. If you are interested in joining our team, please click here to register your details to become a St John Ambulance Queensland volunteer.

Register Your School 

By choosing to host one of our First Aid in Schools programs, you are providing your students with the skills to administer First Aid in an emergency. Register your school today.

Support the First Aid in Schools Program

We believe First Aid education should be accessible to everyone and deliver this program at no cost to schools and families. Our First Aid in Schools program empowers your child with the skills to administer vital First Aid in an emergency. Your donation will help us reach more students and empower the next generation with the skills and confidence to save a life.