The basics of heart anatomy
A basic introduction to the heart, taught interactively so children understand why it is the most important organ in the body.
Teaching young hands to save lives.
Interactive CPR and defibrillator workshops for P7 pupils, youth clubs and community groups, led by a Paediatric Cardiac Physiologist. Small-group coaching on child-sized manikins, and a participation certificate for everyone.
30k out-of-hospital cardiac arrests a year in the UK. 72% happen at home. Source: Resuscitation Council UK, 2021
What we teach
Every session follows the same simple structure: the heart and basic life support first, a break, then hands-on CPR and defibrillator practice. Everyone learns the same steps and everyone gets to practise them.
Part one
Basic life support introduction
What to do if they come across someone who is unresponsive, and how to approach and assess the situation. It introduces children to critical thinking.
Recovery position and when to use it
Active demonstrations of the recovery position and when it should be used.
Break time
Part two
CPR education, demonstration and active involvement
Practical demonstrations, then small-group coaching on child-sized manikins so every child gets proper practice.
AED education (Automated External Defibrillator)
Why defibrillators matter, where they are normally found, why they should never be vandalised, and the myth that an AED can shock someone who is not in a shockable rhythm.
Debrief and reflection
A recap of the most important take-home points, then a participation certificate and badge.
What people say
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Why schools book us
Early CPR education builds a sense of preparedness, so children are better equipped to stay calm and act if they ever meet an emergency. Our workshops are designed for P7 / Key Stage 2 pupils, and we also run them for youth clubs and other groups.
Interactive workshops
- Age-appropriate interactive workshops for P7 pupils.
- Engaging activities to capture pupils' attention.
- CPR coaching from a Paediatric Cardiac Physiologist.
- Hands-on practical CPR exposure on child-sized manikins.
Benefits to pupils
- Builds confidence, with an emphasis on teamwork.
- Provides vital skills for life.
- Instils preparedness and responsibility, encouraging children to be proactive in helping others.
Meets the CEA curriculum
- Key Stage 2 learning outcome: Personal Development and Mutual Understanding.
- Health, wellbeing and safety matters are outlined as a key learning objective.
- Meets the growing educational emphasis on health, safety and the World Around Us.
- Enhances your school's commitment to pupil wellbeing and community safety.
Taught by a Paediatric Cardiac Physiologist
I have 10 years' experience in paediatric cardiology and still work in the acute paediatric hospital setting, so my training is always up to date. Working with children from all walks of life has taught me how to explain the heart clearly. I'm passionate about CPR education from a young age: the earlier children are exposed to it, the more likely they are to stay calm and act effectively in a critical situation.
- Access NI certified
- PILS (paediatric immediate life support) certified
- Specialised in paediatric cardiac imaging (EACVI accredited)
Common questions
Who are the workshops for?
They are designed primarily for P7 / Key Stage 2 pupils. We also run sessions for youth clubs and other community groups, so get in touch and tell us about yours.
Why teach CPR to children?
Around 72% of cardiac arrests happen in the home. The younger children are introduced to CPR, the more likely they are to stay calm and act effectively in a critical situation.
Does the workshop fit the curriculum?
Yes. It supports the Key Stage 2 learning outcome of Personal Development and Mutual Understanding, and the focus on health, wellbeing and safety and the World Around Us.
What happens in a session?
Part one covers the anatomy of the heart, basic life support and the recovery position. After a break, part two covers hands-on CPR practice, AED education and a debrief.
Do the children practise hands-on?
Yes. Children are coached in small groups on child-sized manikins, so everyone gets time to practise.
What do children take away?
A recap of the key points, plus a participation certificate and badge.
Who delivers the workshops?
A Paediatric Cardiac Physiologist with 10 years' experience in paediatric cardiology, who is Access NI certified, PILS (paediatric immediate life support) certified and EACVI accredited in cardiac imaging.
How do I book or find out more?
Use the enquiry form, call 07526 269165 or email handstoheartNI@outlook.com.
Contact us
Tell us about your school, club or group and roughly when you'd like us to visit, and we'll be in touch.
Request sent
No obligation.