Secondary schools efforts in CPR promotion and training rewarded

Two Meath schools have been recognised with a prestigious Irish Heart Foundation award for training their students in the lifesaving skill of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Eureka Secondary School in Kells and Loreto Secondary School St Michael's in Navan both received a CPR 4 Schools award, which recognises schools, teachers and students for remarkable efforts in CPR promotion and training.

They were among 33 schools across Ireland presented with 63 awards as part of the national heart and stroke charity’s CPR 4 Schools programme.

90 per cent of secondary schools have engaged in the programme since its inception, with 2,630 teachers involved across 649 schools to deliver CPR training, giving the programme a reach of over 350,000 students nationwide.

The charity is now calling on all schools to sign up to help build a new generation of lifesavers.

The programme trains students to perform CPR and respond in a cardiac emergency, use an AED (defibrillator) and respond when someone is choking.

Easy to run, it involves one hour, video-led lessons, fully supported with manikin kits and classroom resources.

Secondary School teacher, said: “This training has boosted student confidence and preparedness to act in emergencies, potentially doubling or tripling survival rates in cardiac emergency.”

“Additionally, students have developed critical thinking and teamwork abilities, enhancing their overall personal development.” Post-primary school teachers interested in signing up for the free programme can register by emailing: schools@irishheart.ie.

To find out more about CPR 4 Schools, visit irishheart.ie/cpr4schools.