Crucial lessons learnt by East of England pupils

Community development resuscitation officer Stuart Reeves was invited along to represent the East of England Ambulance Service at this year's Hertfordshire Crucial Crew scheme, held at Wilsher Dacre School in Hitchin last month.

Over a two-week period, schools across the county took part in a number of scenarios which were led by a collective group of local organisations including St John Ambulance, Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service, Hertfordshire Constabulary and First Capital Connect. Each school was broken down into teams and everyone participated in each session. Scenarios ranged from learning about fire and road safety and the dangers associated about playing on railways. There was also a section on understanding how to deal with internet bullying.

Stuart was at hand to demonstrate life saving techniques and how to deal with drowning casualties at sea. Stuart said: "It was a very busy and fun week and more than 1500 pupils took part in this worthy event. The children and the staff representing the agencies really enjoyed themselves and many lessons were learnt."

Each pupil received a certificate of attendance at the end of the course