Queen Anne's School leads the UK in training students in CPR

In a pioneering move setting an example to the rest of the UK, Queen Anne's School is in the process of providing every one of its students with a Heart Safe qualification. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with Code Blue CPR, aims to empower students with vital lifesaving skills.

The inspiration for this groundbreaking programme came from Queen Anne's School alumna, Kitty Williams. In a remarkable act of bravery and presence of mind, Kitty saved her boyfriend, Morgan MacRae, after he suffered a cardiac arrest at their home. Her quick response and CPR knowledge, honed during her time at university, were crucial in saving his life. Morgan, a Henley Rugby Club player, expressed profound gratitude for Kitty's lifesaving actions, highlighting the importance of widespread CPR training.

Code Blue CPR, renowned for its comprehensive and interactive training programmes, was the chosen partner for this initiative. The organisation, led by highly experienced professionals, specialises in delivering CPR training that is both practical and engaging. Their approach ensures that participants not only learn the techniques but also gain the confidence to act swiftly and effectively in emergencies. They worked with every single year group at Queen Anne’s to provide training. David Sullivan, founder of Creating Lifesavers, says this makes Queen Anne’s “one of the safest schools in the UK, providing the area with an army of new lifesavers”.

The training sessions at Queen Anne's School covered essential CPR techniques, including chest compressions and rescue breaths, as well as the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Students participated enthusiastically, recognising the significance of these skills in potentially life-threatening situations.

The school's decision to implement this programme reflects a broader commitment to student health and safety. It also serves as a model for other educational institutions, demonstrating the profound impact of practical health education.

Kitty Williams’ experience underscores the real-world importance of CPR training. Her story is a powerful reminder that emergencies can occur at any time, and preparedness can make all the difference. Queen Anne's School's collaboration with Code Blue CPR ensures that its students are not only academically equipped but also prepared to respond to critical health emergencies.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in school-based health education in the UK. It is hoped that other schools will follow Queen Anne's lead, recognising the value of equipping young people with the skills to save lives.

Queen Anne’s School would like to thank David Sullivan, founder of Creating Lifesavers, for his work with our students and his ongoing dedication to the widespread accessibility of CPR training in the UK.

For more information about the programme and training sessions, please visit the Code Blue CPR website.