Preparing for Medical Emergencies in Schools: What Teachers and Staff Need to Know

Preparing for Medical Emergencies in Schools: What Teachers and Staff Need to Know

Schools are busy environments where children are constantly on the move, learning, playing, and exploring. While this energy and enthusiasm are part of what makes schools so vibrant, it also means that accidents and medical emergencies can — and do — happen. Whether it’s a playground fall, an asthma attack, or an allergic reaction, every second counts. Being properly prepared can make all the difference.

Understanding Your Legal Responsibilities

Schools have a duty of care to their pupils. This includes taking reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm and to respond effectively in the event of a medical emergency. The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 require employers, including schools, to provide adequate and appropriate first aid equipment, facilities, and trained personnel.

While not every member of staff needs to be a qualified first aider, it’s essential that there are enough trained individuals on site to deal with emergencies promptly. Schools should also carry out risk assessments to determine the level of first aid cover required — taking into account pupil numbers, age ranges, and specific health needs.

Common School Emergencies and How to Respond

Asthma Attacks

Asthma is one of the most common long-term medical conditions in children. An asthma attack can come on suddenly, so it’s vital that staff know the signs: coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or difficulty speaking in full sentences.

If a pupil is having an asthma attack:

  • Help them use their reliever inhaler (usually the blue one).
  • Encourage them to sit upright and stay calm.
  • If symptoms don’t improve after 10 puffs or they worsen, call 999 immediately.
    Schools are legally allowed to hold a spare reliever inhaler for emergencies, provided parental consent and appropriate policies are in place.

Severe Allergic Reactions (Anaphylaxis)

Food allergies are increasingly common, and anaphylaxis can be life-threatening. Signs include swelling, difficulty breathing, or collapse.

If this occurs:

  • Use the pupil’s adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen or similar) straight away.
  • Call 999 and tell them it’s anaphylaxis.
  • If symptoms don’t improve within 5 minutes and another auto-injector is available, administer a second dose.
    Schools can keep a spare adrenaline auto-injector on site, again with written consent and policies in place.

Injuries and Accidents

From playground tumbles to sports injuries, minor cuts and bruises are part of school life. However, staff must also be ready to respond to more serious incidents such as:

  • Head injuries – always monitor closely and seek medical advice if there’s vomiting, drowsiness, or confusion.
  • Broken bones or sprains – keep the injured area still and supported until help arrives.
  • Bleeding – apply direct pressure with a clean dressing and, if serious, call for emergency assistance.

Accident report forms should be completed for all incidents, no matter how small, and parents or guardians should always be informed.

Best Practice for Schools

  1. Regular Training: Ensure that all staff receive first aid training appropriate to their role. Consider additional paediatric first aid training for those working with younger pupils.
  2. Emergency Plans: Display clear instructions throughout the school and make sure staff know how to contact emergency services and where to find first aid kits and defibrillators.
  3. Communication: Keep up-to-date records of pupils’ medical conditions and emergency contacts. Ensure cover staff and volunteers are briefed.
  4. Practice Drills: Conduct regular emergency simulations — for example, mock asthma attacks or allergic reactions — so staff remain confident and calm under pressure.
  5. First Aid Equipment: Maintain well-stocked first aid kits in key locations, including the playground, gym, and staffroom.

Building Confidence Through Training

Even the most experienced teachers can feel anxious in a medical emergency — and that’s perfectly natural. The key to overcoming that hesitation is practical, hands-on training that builds confidence and readiness.

At ProTrainings, we offer a range of first aid courses tailored for schools and childcare settings, including Paediatric First Aid, Basic Life Support, and First Aid at Work. These courses give staff the skills and confidence to act quickly and effectively when it matters most.

Every child deserves a safe learning environment — and every school deserves a team that’s ready for anything.
Learn more about first aid courses for schools at www.propaediatric.co.uk.

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