Pupils taught 'crucial' safety lessons

St John Ambulance representatives showed classes how to perform CPR

Year 6 students on the Isle of Man have been given tips on staying safe both in and out of school ahead of their move to high school.

The pupils attended the Crucial Crew event at the Villa Marina where charities and emergency services offered them extra advice and support.

As well as a focus on their mental health and any anxiety students may have about going to high school, those attending received lessons on fire safety and first aid.

Leading firefighter Richard Little said the event was important for ensuring the island's children knew how to prevent and react to accidents and emergencies.

'Transition'

The event was designed to give 10 and 11-year-olds on the island the opportunity to learn new skills ahead of their transition to high school in the autumn.

Steven Downard from mental health charity Isle Listen said the transition from primary to school school was one that presented "many challenges" for children.

The charity was encouraging the children to talk about the concerns they may have about going to high school and the steps they could take to ease any stress or anxiety it may cause, he said.

All of the island's Year 6 students have been attending the event

As well as their mental health, the students were shown how to perform CPR and use a defibrillator by St John Ambulance, and discussed safety online with members of the Isle of Man Constabulary.

Road safety team operations manager Berni Hall said the move to high school brought a change in habits for students, especially for those in more rural schools who may be used to walking to school.

She said the team wanted to reinforce the importance of students being aware of their surroundings and not crossing into roads while staring at their phones.

"It's really important that they understand the transition," she added.

Other agencies taking part in the event included the Isle of Man Coastguard and Kensington Arts.