STAFF and pupils from a Greenock secondary school have been recognised for their fantastic first aid knowledge.

Notre Dame High were given the ‘First Class 2023’ award at medical charity St Andrew’s First Aid’s annual awards in Glasgow.

The prize acknowledges educational establishments which promote an exemplary level of first aid knowledge and practice.

After taking part in St Andrew’s First Aid’s ‘Ready for Life’ programme, the school officially introduced first aid into the curriculum.

It aims to teach valuable lifesaving skills to those who take part and accredit those who are passionate to become first aiders in the local community.

The school has also established a strong relationship with HM Coastguard and has invited them to visit the school to provide an insight into their lifesaving practices.

It is also actively pursuing other opportunities to connect with the emergency services to help inspire young people to become the next generation of lifesavers.

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Jamie McGowan, developing young workforce co-ordinator at Notre Dame, said: “Everyone at our school is committed to teaching every leaver quality life-saving skills and equipping pupils of all ages with the skills to use defibrillators and administer CPR.

“Taking part in St Andrew’s First Aid’s Ready for Life programme proved such a success that we are striving to make lasting changes, to ensure that our first aid legacy is passed on from year to year.

“It’s a real honour to see our efforts recognised with this accolade.

“It’s testament to the hard work our entire faculty has put into bringing these skills to life, and I’m sure it will only spur them on further to create new opportunities for learning and development for our students.”

Stuart Callison, chief executive of St Andrew’s First Aid, said: “It’s clear to see that Notre Dame High School genuinely cares about the whole community.

“They go above and beyond to support all of the young people who pass through their halls, and their holistic approach is also helping to break down barriers.

“By introducing first aid to the curriculum, the school is equipping young people with essential lifesaving skills – something which the wider society can benefit from.”