Ysgol Treffynnon participates in Restart a Heart Day 2023: Empowering Students with Life-Saving Skills

On the 16th of October 2023, we enthusiastically embraced the spirit of Restart a Heart Day, a global initiative aimed at highlighting the importance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to the general public. This annual event, coordinated by organisations such as the British Heart Foundation, the Resuscitation Council, St. John's Ambulance, British Red Cross, the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives, and Save a Life Cymru, is a crucial step towards increasing awareness about cardiac arrest and equipping individuals with the skills and confidence to potentially save lives.

Restart a Heart Day seeks to emphasise that the early moments following a cardiac arrest are critical and that a trained bystander can make a life-saving difference. By promoting education and training in CPR, this event plays a pivotal role in enhancing the chances of survival for those experiencing heart-related emergencies.

At Ysgol Treffynnon, 92 Year 7 pupils had the unique opportunity to gain invaluable insights into the significance of CPR and defibrillators. The event was organised with great enthusiasm, with the presence of Sandra Silcock from the Welsh Ambulance Service, alongside Mrs. V. Bond, who led the engaging sessions for our Year 7 students.

Throughout the day, the students were educated about the essential components of CPR, including recognising the signs of cardiac arrest, ensuring personal safety, summoning professional help, administering CPR, and comprehending the life-saving significance of defibrillators. The students actively participated in hands-on sessions that exposed them to real-life scenarios, teaching them how to act independently or collaboratively to save lives.

Mrs. V. Bond, who played a pivotal role in organising the event, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, "This day is very important to us, and this is a vital life-saving skill that children need to learn. After doing the session, we hope they are more confident to use these skills to help someone if they need it in the future."

The Year 7 pupils wholeheartedly embraced the learning experience. Their newfound confidence in administering CPR is an essential skill that can be used to provide aid in emergency situations. The school community takes great pride in empowering these young students with the knowledge that could one day make a profound difference in the lives of others.

The successful participation of Ysgol Treffynnon in Restart a Heart Day 2023 not only underscores the school's commitment to student well-being but also the importance of spreading awareness about CPR and its life-saving potential. The students now possess a vital skill that can potentially make a life-changing impact.

Mrs Bond would also like to thank Mr Gilbart and Mr Parry for helping her to set everything up for the session to go ahead. Without their technical support, it wouldn't have happened. A big thankyou to all the teachers who accompanied the students into the session providing support and encouragement.