Maghull High’s Mini-Medics

Maghull High School is part of the Southport Learning Trust. Recently, schools across the trust collaborated in the #kNOwKnifeCrime campaign, to fundraise for charity. As part of the campaign, Maghull High raised £10,000 towards Cash for Kids. The money raised helped to fund first aid training for all year 7 students across trust schools.

Year 7 students from Maghull High School took part in the Mini Medics Programme on Tuesday 14 October and Wednesday 15 October. Over two days, every Year 7 tutor group attended a focused two hour session. This class introduced children to practical first aid, CPR, and core emergency response skills in an age-appropriate, hands-on format.

Session format and delivery

Two-hour sessions were delivered within tutor groups to maximise engagement and create a familiar, calm learning atmosphere. The instructors used a mix of short demonstrations, practical skills practice, scenario-based role play, and group discussion to reinforce learning. All activities were adapted for Year 7 abilities and supervised closely to ensure students felt safe while trying new skills.

Key information delivered

• Scene assessment and prioritisation. Students learnt how to assess a scene for safety and prioritise actions in keeping themselves and others safe before acting.
• CPR and recovery position. Pupils practised chest compressions on paediatric mannequins. They were taught the rhythm and technique for effective CPR. They also learned how to place someone in the recovery position.
• Calling for help. Clear, step-by-step guidance on when and how to call for help was provided. This included what information to give to emergency services.
• Scenario practice: Short, realistic scenarios helped students apply skills under guided conditions while building teamwork and decision-making.

Topics covered included:

• What is First Aid?
• Important things to know about First Aid
• The Four ‘B’s
• Recovery Position
• CPR
• Defibrillation
• Wounds and Bleeding, including – Bleed Kits & KnifeSavers Info
• Broken Bones
• Burns
• Shock
• First Aid Kits

Sessions ended with a review of key points. There was time for questions and reflection on how pupils might use these skills at home or in school.

Impact and student response

Students left with hands-on practice in fundamental life-saving techniques. Structured practice and supportive feedback improved pupils’ confidence in responding calmly to an emergency. Activities emphasised looking after others and keeping people safe until professionals arrive. Pupils practised giving concise information to emergency services and coordinating with peers in a response.

Staff feedback

Teaching staff noted high levels of concentration and mature questioning from the Year 7 cohort. Tutors observed improved peer support during practical tasks. They recognised the sessions as valuable preparation for both school and community settings. Staff highlighted the sessions’ effectiveness in turning abstract ideas about emergencies into tangible actions pupils can remember.

Funding and acknowledgement

The full cost of delivering the Mini Medics Programme was covered by funds raised through the Southport Learning Trust’s #kNOwKnifeCrime Campaign. This campaign was provided in partnership with London Marathon. The financial support removed barriers to participation. It allowed the programme to be offered to every Year 7 student at no cost.

Next Steps

• Short term impact. Immediate increases in student confidence and practical skills were observed across Tutor Groups.
• Long term value. Introducing life-saving skills at Year 7 equips students with a foundation they can build on in later years.
• Follow-up opportunities. The school plans to reinforce key messages through tutor-time reminders. They aim to explore further workshops or refresher sessions to maintain competency.

Thank you to the Southport Learning Trust’s #kNOwKnifeCrime Campaign, London Marathon, Mini Medics instructors, teaching staff, and every member of the community who supported this initiative. Your contribution helped give Year 7 students essential skills that could make a real difference in an emergency.