A classroom fell silent as pupils gathered around lifelike training dummies, learning skills that could one day mean the difference between life and death.
Year eight pupils at Dartmouth Academy have taken part in hands-on workshops designed to give them the confidence and knowledge to respond in a cardiac emergency.
The sessions were delivered by Jay’s Aim, a South West charity focused on reducing sudden cardiac deaths among young people.
During the workshops, pupils were taught how to recognise the signs of cardiac arrest, call for emergency assistance and perform basic CPR. Each pupil was given the opportunity to practise the techniques in a controlled and supportive environment.
Jay’s Aim was founded in memory of James Osborne, known as Jay, a 28-year-old father who died from a sudden cardiac arrest. Following his death, his family launched the charity to help protect others through education and access to lifesaving equipment.
The organisation highlights that around 12 people under the age of 35 die each week in the UK from undiagnosed heart conditions, often without prior symptoms.
Through its work, Jay’s Aim delivers free CPR training and installs defibrillators across the South West, aiming to equip communities with the tools needed to act quickly in emergencies.
Nicola Perrott, assistant principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “These workshops were incredibly valuable for our Year 8s. CPR is a skill that every young person should have, and the team from Jay’s Aim made the learning accessible, engaging and memorable.
“We are grateful for the work they do and proud of how well our pupils embraced the training.”
Matthew Shanks, chief executive of Education South West, said: “Equipping young people with the skills to save a life is one of the most meaningful things a school can do.
“We are incredibly proud of Dartmouth Academy for providing this opportunity and grateful to Jay’s Aim for their commitment to educating and empowering our communities.
“These pupils now have knowledge that could make an extraordinary difference in an emergency.”
