First aid lessons for KLB pupils

Pupils in north west Sutherland have been learning the basics of First Aid as part of a new, year-long programme.

The course involves pupils from S4 undertaking practical activities which develop their knowledge and understanding of the workplace.

It leads to a national qualification, the Employability Award, which is recognised by the Scottish Qualification Authority.

Sutherland Community Partnership has taken a leading role in coordinating the programme, which was trialled at Golspie High School last year and is now being rolled out to other Sutherland secondaries at Kinlochbervie,

Dornoch and Golspie as well as at Ullapool High School.

Education managers are working with a wide range of uniformed and emergency services to deliver various aspects of the course.

The organisations involved include Assynt Mountain Rescue team; Police Scotland; Scottish Fire and Rescue Service; the Scottish Ambulance Service and HM Coastguard.

High Life Highland is responsible for providing the First Aid tuition along with sessions on leadership.

A project spokeswoman said: "The project came about because it was felt there was a lack of work experience for young people in the area.

"The programme focuses on developing skills and attitudes that will help young people make a successful move into the job market.

"This includes looking at their own skills and experience, how these might apply to work and considering what kind of empoyment would suit them.

"Part of the course involves building employability skills - helping young poeople practise skills such as contacting employers, filling in application forms and writing a CV.

"It also covers what being an employee means how to behave at work and how young people should expect tot be treated by their employer as well as how to build effective working relationships."