Published on: 22 August 2019




As part of the School’s holistic approach to boys’ education all Senior School students are equipped with vital first aid training throughout their Christ Church journey.

In recent years, such skills have helped save lives as seen in the cases of old boys Stanley McFarlane (’18) who saved the life of a public citizen on Queenslea Drive, and Nick O’Halloran (’04) who helped save the life of a fellow old boy while on patrol at North Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club.

From Years 7 to 9 students undergo first aid training during the Kooringal Outdoor Education program, and this is further enhanced through Year 10 Venture training where the boys learn skills relevant to this upcoming wilderness experience.

During the Year 10 Physical Education course, all students undertake Bronze Medallion training, with most achieving this award on completion. Through the Certificate II and IV Fitness course, students also complete the St John First Providers First Aid course.

In Years 10 and 11, the activities provide further opportunities to expand first aid skills through Surf Life Saving and Army Cadets, and those who choose to, are able to seek qualification as a Level 1 St John Officer. Boys who follow this pathway then volunteer their time with St John at public events such as the Perth Royal Agricultural Show.

Teaching and support staff at the School are also provided opportunities throughout the year to undertake basic first aid training through St John Ambulance.

To ensure student, staff and community health and wellbeing, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) devices are available at the following locations –  the school gym, Mt Claremont playing fields, St John’s Wood playing fields and Kooringal Outdoor Education Centre. The School recently acquired two new AED cabinets, enabling 24-hour access on campus. The cabinets, clearly signed (see photos), are located on the exterior of the Health Centre and Physical Education office.