Why Don’t We Teach First Aid Training to Students in Schools?

Every day, thousands of accidents and emergencies happen around the world. Whether it’s a child choking in the school canteen, a friend fainting during sports, or a family member collapsing at home, these situations call for immediate action. So why don’t we teach students first aid—the very skills that could save a life?

Why Don’t All Schools Teach First Aid?

First aid is a life-saving skill that equips individuals to respond effectively in emergencies, potentially saving lives while waiting for professional help. Yet, teaching first aid in schools varies widely across the globe, with some countries leading the way and others lagging behind.

Countries Leading in First Aid Education

In countries like Norway and Denmark, first aid education is mandatory in schools, with Denmark implementing this requirement since 2005. As a result, their survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests are significantly higher than countries without similar mandates. Germany also requires first aid training for citizens as part of obtaining a driver’s license, ensuring broad public awareness. In China, CPR and first aid training are incorporated into school curricula as part of health education, aimed at improving public readiness for emergencies​

First Aid: A Life Skill, Not a Luxury

First aid is not just for adults or workplaces; it’s a life skill that empowers people of all ages. Teaching first aid in schools can:

Save Lives: Students who know CPR, the Heimlich manoeuvre, or how to stop bleeding can make a critical difference before professional help arrives.

Build Confidence: First aid training teaches young people how to stay calm and take action in emergencies.

Foster Responsibility: Learning to help others nurtures compassion and accountability.

Create Safer Communities: A generation equipped with first aid knowledge leads to a society better prepared for emergencies.

What’s Holding Us Back?

Despite its importance, first aid training isn’t a standard part of school curriculums in many countries. Here’s why:

Lack of Awareness: Many decision-makers underestimate how early students can learn and apply first aid skills.

Limited Resources: Schools often struggle with tight budgets, leaving little room for additional programs.

Time Constraints: With packed curriculums, schools may find it challenging to add another subject.

Misplaced Assumptions: Some believe that first aid is too complex or unnecessary for young people to learn.

The Counterargument: It’s Easier Than You Think

First aid training doesn’t have to be expensive, time-consuming, or overly technical. Courses can be tailored to different age groups, teaching basic skills like:

Calling emergency services and communicating vital information.

Performing CPR and using a defibrillator.

Managing choking or severe bleeding.

Responding to burns, sprains, or minor injuries.

With engaging, hands-on sessions led by professionals, even young children can grasp these essentials.

A Call to Action

If we can teach students algebra and Shakespeare, why not teach them how to save a life? By integrating first aid training into school curriculums, we can empower the next generation with the tools they need to act confidently and compassionately in emergencies.

How We Can Help

At Invictus Strategic Solutions, we offer tailored first aid courses, including Paediatric First Aid, CitizenAID, and Activity First Aid, perfect for schools. Our courses are delivered by frontline emergency medical professionals, ensuring practical, engaging training that sticks.

For more information, get in touch at info@invictusstrategicsolutions.com or visit our website at www.invictusstrategicsolutions.com to learn more.