Big Incident prepares youngsters to cope when things go wrong

The firefighters, police officers and first aiders combined to involve the 11-year-olds at St Philip Howard Catholic High School in life or death decisions.

The unique session was designed to teach the pupils about their personal safety and responsibility.

The day began with a young person starting a relationship with a stranger on the internet.

It went on to feature a serious road traffic collision and an arson attack. Messages about first aid and fire safety were taught along the way.

Assistant headteacher Steve Williams said 150 pupils would be involved in all in a project known as Big Incident Day.

"Students discovered and learned about the dangers of the internet, road safety, how to manage an accident scene while waiting for help to arrive and basic first aid," he said.

"Using a problem solving approach, they learnt the key messages of being safe, thinking about risks and taking responsibility."

Neighbourhood schools' officer for Littlehampton, PC Claudine Bishop used her contribution to cover bullying, using the internet sensibly and how to respond to online strangers.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service's deputy district commander, Stuart Beddoe, said: "We used the day to promote road safety, home fire safety and personal responsibility.

"We were keen to help the school...to develop young adults who are better prepared for the demands of the modern world."

Michael Hole, the school liasion officer for St John Ambulance Sussex, showed the pupils how to ensure their safety and that of any casualty, check for breathing and bleeding, deal with any injuries and how to pass on relevant information.

"Any activity that promotes the personal safety and well being of our young people is to be applauded," he added.

What do you think? Click here to send a letter or leave a comment below.

Click here to go back to Chichester news

Click here to go back to Bognor Regis news

Click here to go back to Midhurst and Petworth news

To tell us where in the world you are reading this story click on the link below to add yourself to our readers' map.

MAP