First Aid for Schools

In the UK there are guidelines set out by the Department of Education and Employment which state the minimum first aid provision that must be available at all times while people are on school premises and also off the premises whilst on school visits.

These minimum provisions include:

• a suitably stocked first aid container
• an appointed person to take charge of first aid arrangements
• information for employees on first aid arrangements

The guidance reflects extensive consultation with the teacher unions, Local Education Authorities, health services and voluntary organisations. It provides advice for schools on drawing up first aid policies and ensuring that they are meeting their statutory duties.

What Are a First Aider's Main Duties?
the guidance states that:

At school, the main duties of a first aider are to:

• Give immediate help to casualties with common injuries or illnesses and those arising from specific hazards at school;
• When necessary, ensure that an ambulance or other professional medical help is called.

First aiders must complete a training course approved by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

DRD Training offer a a wide range of Emergency First Response accredited courses which are approved under the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations (1981).

A selection of courses may be relevant to meet your school needs, from the First Aid at Work, Primary and Secondary Care as Appointed Person provision and Care for Children to address potential first aid provision for children.

Training can be conducted at your school and we can even organise "shared courses" between several smaller schools. Why not contact us to discuss your school training needs, we will be happy to offer free advice.

Secondary and Grammar Schools as well as Youth Clubs and Further Education Facilities can also offer short CPR and /or First Aid courses to pupils and students. Why not Contact us for further information.

Guidance from the DfEE

The Department for Education and Employment has produced a publication entitled "Guidance on First Aid for Schools" The guide relates to health and safety legislation which places duties and responsibilities on employers for employees and anyone else on their premises. Schools must have a health and safety policy which includes arrangements for first aid, a risk assessment process, appropriate facilities, and details of 'Appointed Persons'. The guide provides explanations for these and other pertinent terms, and provides reference to existing legislation as appropriate.

The document also acts as a checklist of good practice with guidance notes on school sites, temporary hazards, pupils with special needs, record keeping, first aiders, qualifications and training, care of equipment and facilities, and hygiene/infection control. The annexes provide lists of associated organizations, resources, and contacts.

Download Guidance on First Aid for Schools