Armthorpe Academy students learn life saving skills on Restart a Heart Day

As part of this commitment, the academy places great importance on providing opportunities for students to develop essential life skills, broaden their experiences and understand how they can make a positive contribution to society. Learning how to respond in an emergency is an invaluable skill, and one that could make a life-changing difference to someone in need.

Students in Years 7 and 8 took part in practical CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) training, learning how to recognise a cardiac arrest, perform CPR and use a defibrillator.

The event formed part of the academy's wider Personal Development Programme, which aims to equip students with the knowledge, confidence and practical skills they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Mrs Charlotte Fox, Director of Assistant Principal, said: "Personal development is about so much more than what students learn in the classroom. It is about giving young people the knowledge, experiences and confidence to navigate the world around them and make a positive difference. Learning CPR and how to use a defibrillator are incredibly important life skills, and we are so proud that 249 of our students now have the knowledge to potentially save someone's life. We want our students to leave us not only with strong academic foundations but also with the skills and confidence to make a difference in their communities."

The day was a fantastic success, with over 200 students now having the knowledge and confidence to respond in an emergency. The training was delivered with the support of dedicated volunteers, who were hugely impressed by the students' enthusiasm, behaviour and willingness to learn.

The importance of the initiative was reflected in the positive feedback from parents, many of whom welcomed the opportunity for their children to learn skills that could one day help save a life.

One parent said: "My daughter loved the session. She came home saying she could now save my life as well one day!"

Another commented: "This is a really good way for them to learn life skills that could make all the difference in someone's worst moment. He came home and told me about what he'd learnt. I'm first aid trained and loved that this was included!"

Other parents described the training as an "invaluable skill", with one adding: "Everyone should be taught CPR. Well done for implementing this!"

The volunteers were equally enthusiastic about the day, praising the students for their excellent behaviour and engagement. They were so impressed that they have already expressed an interest in returning to support further training for the rest of the school.

The initiative reflects Armthorpe Academy's commitment to providing opportunities that go beyond the classroom, ensuring students develop practical skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.

By learning how to act in an emergency, these young people are now better equipped to make a difference in their community – and potentially save someone's life.