From classroom to hospital ward: Leeds pupils get a taste of NHS life
Pupils at a Leeds school swapped the classroom for St James’ Hospital for a lesson they won’t find in any textbook.
Youngsters from Shakespeare Primary, in Harehills, were given a behind the scenes taste of life in the NHS to learn how science and teamwork come together to save lives.
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The sessions included an introduction to basic life support, a hand washing escape room that helped the students understand infection prevention and a session building on the pupils’ recent classroom learning about the heart and circulatory system.
Dr Sarah Campion, lead undergraduate medical educator, said: “We were delighted to be involved to work with pupils from our local school to give them a really refreshing and interesting hands-on day learning more about healthcare.
“The children were so enthusiastic and keen to learn. CPR is a vital skill and giving them the chance to practise it at such a young age helps build confidence and awareness of how they can help others.
“Children often see us when they’re unwell, so it was fantastic to meet them in a different setting and show them how simple steps like handwashing can protect patients and staff. Their energy and curiosity made the sessions really enjoyable.”
Poppy Cartwright, subject lead at Shakespeare Primary School, added: “We had a really great day on the hospital site and this was a brilliant opportunity to show our pupils some practical activities, which I am confident they will take home with them and remember for a long time.
“Experiences like this bring science to life and show children how their learning connects to real careers and we are grateful to Leeds Teaching Hospitals for giving our pupils such a memorable opportunity.
“The transplant journey is a powerful way to show how many different roles exist within the NHS. It was wonderful to see the pupils connect their science lessons with real-life patient care.”