Empowering Young Lifesavers: First Aid Workshops in Schools and the National Curriculum

Empowering Young Lifesavers: First Aid Workshops in Schools and the National Curriculum

Introduction

In a world where accidents can happen anywhere and at any time, equipping children with basic first aid knowledge is not just a life skill—it's an act of empowerment. First aid workshops in schools are increasingly recognised as essential, and with the support of the National Curriculum in England, there has never been a better time to bring these vital skills into the classroom. At Peritia Training we offer specially designed workshops to fully engage each child with first aid knowledge that is aimed at their level of understanding. It's extremely important that this is suitable as many children find situations in danger overwhelming.  We specialise in truly supportive trainers that understand the needs of each student and all of our workshops are supportive of any emotional and social needs.

Why First Aid for Children?

Children are naturally curious and eager to learn new things—especially when those things make them feel capable and responsible. Teaching first aid from a young age helps children:

• Build confidence in emergency situations

• Learn how to help others safely and effectively

• Understand when and how to call for help

• Develop empathy and social responsibility

These are not just practical life skills—they’re the foundations of a more compassionate and capable society.

What the National Curriculum Says

In 2020, the National Curriculum for England made health education compulsory in all state-funded schools, including key aspects of first aid. According to the Department for Education’s statutory guidance:

“Pupils should know:

• how to make a clear and efficient call to emergency services if necessary

• concepts of basic first-aid, for example dealing with common injuries, including head injuries”

This applies primarily to pupils at Key Stage 2 and above. It means schools now have a responsibility—and an opportunity—to embed first aid into their PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) education.

What a First Aid Workshop Looks Like

Our well-designed first aid workshops for children are engaging, age-appropriate, and hands-on. Sessions can include:

• Understanding emergencies: What is an emergency? When should you call 999?

• Calling for help: Practising how to give clear information to emergency services.

• Common injuries: How to treat cuts, burns, nosebleeds, and head bumps.

• Recovery position: Learning the basics through demonstration and practice.

• Role play and games: Making learning interactive and memorable.

• Carry out CPR and deal with choking: This is aimed for older primary aged children but important to others ages to be aware of it. 

Workshops are adapted for different year groups, and all of our certified trainers have extensive experience in teaching children.

Benefits Beyond the Classroom

Integrating first aid education in schools has lasting benefits:

• Life-saving knowledge: Children may one day save a life—at home, in school, or in the community.
  Confidence and leadership: First aid training builds self-esteem and decision-making skills.

• Health literacy: It contributes to overall health awareness and responsibility.

How Schools Can Get Started - Book our workshops online

The workshops are child-centred and the content is specifically designed to teach First Aid skills in a fun and interactive way. The session is practical, lots of fun and involves lots of activities for the children to enjoy. A favourite with schools and voluntary groups!

Conclusion

First aid education is more than just teaching bandages and emergency numbers—it's about empowering children with the confidence to act when it counts. By aligning first aid workshops with the National Curriculum, schools play a critical role in raising a generation of informed, compassionate, and capable young lifesavers.

Let’s give every child the chance to be a hero when it matters most.