CPR and Defibrillator

Overview

This lesson introduces Year 2 students to the basic concepts of CPR and defibrillator use in an age-appropriate, simplified way. Using a soft doll and interactive activities, pupils will develop an awareness of emergency response steps, fostering confidence and understanding of how to act in a medical emergency. This final lesson builds on previous learning from the "Safe and Healthy Choices" unit.

Duration: 30 minutes
Class size: 10 pupils

National Curriculum Links (England)

PSHE Association Programme of Study (Key Stage 1, Year 2):

Health and Wellbeing
- "How to maintain personal hygiene" and "how to keep safe" (statutory guidance)
- Understanding that "people can get ill and how to get help if someone is unwell or injured"
Relationships and Health Education guidance:
- Recognising "what is meant by a healthy lifestyle" including simple first aid
- Learning about “how to respond in an emergency”

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, pupils will be able to:

Explain in simple terms what CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is and why it can be important.
Demonstrate the basic hand positioning and steps for CPR using a doll.
Understand what a defibrillator is and when it might be used, in simple language.
Know who to call or what to do if someone is unconscious or not breathing.

Resources Needed

Soft dolls or CPR training mannequins suitable for children
Age-appropriate, child-friendly video demonstrating simplified CPR
Large print step-by-step flashcards illustrating CPR steps
Toy or mock defibrillator (plastic model or printout)
Whiteboard and markers
“Emergency response” role play prompt cards
Hand sanitizer for hygiene before/after doll handling

Lesson Structure

1. Introduction and Recap (5 minutes)

Recap briefly the previous lessons on “Safe and Healthy Choices,” focusing on staying safe and calling for help.
Ask pupils if they know what happens if someone suddenly falls unconscious and explain that today we will learn some very important things adults and children can do when this happens.
Set the lesson focus: learning some basic first aid called CPR and understanding the role of a defibrillator.

2. Watch and Discuss Video (5 minutes)

Show a 3-4 minute video designed for young children showing:
- Someone collapsing, checking for breathing
- Calling 999 or for an adult immediately
- The basic actions of chest compressions on the doll
- Introduction of a defibrillator in a real-life setting (simplified)
Ask guided questions:
- What did you see happen first?
- Why do you think they did chest compressions?
- What do you think the defibrillator does?
Highlight that adults usually do CPR but it’s good for children to know the basics too.

3. Hands-On Practice with Doll (15 minutes)

Demonstrate the following steps with the doll:
1. Ensure the area is safe.
2. Check if the person is responsive—tap the doll’s shoulder, ask loudly if they are OK.
3. Call for help – emphasise shouting for an adult or dialling 999.
4. Position hands in the centre of the chest, one on top of the other.
5. Press down firmly and evenly (demonstrate gentle depth appropriate for the doll).
Invite pupils one-by-one to practice pressing down on the doll’s chest under supervision.
Use flashcards at each step for visual support.
Encourage pupils to speak aloud the steps as they practise for reinforcement.

4. Introduction to Defibrillators (3 minutes)

Show the toy or model defibrillator. Explain simply:
- “This is called a defibrillator – it helps the heart beat properly again.”
- “You will see them in some public places, like train stations or shopping centres.”
- “Adults who know how can use it during emergencies.”
Discuss that children should always find an adult to help in an emergency.

5. Emergency Role Play and Reflection (2 minutes)

Use prompt cards with simple scenarios (e.g., “Your friend falls down and won’t wake up.”)
Invite pairs to act out what steps they would take: checking, calling for help, practising CPR on the doll.
Brief reflection: ask pupils how they felt practicing and what they learnt about helping someone in trouble.

Assessment and Review

Formative Assessment:

Teacher observes pupils during practical activity ensuring correct hand placement and understanding.
Verbal questioning during and after video to check comprehension.
Role play responses to check pupils can explain key safety actions.

Success Criteria:

Pupils confidently name the steps of CPR.
Pupils demonstrate hand positioning and two-three compressions on the doll.
Pupils articulate the role of the defibrillator and the importance of calling for help.

Differentiation and Inclusion

Use large print and clear visuals for pupils with special educational needs.
Support from teaching assistants during practical activities.
Carefully model each step slowly and repeat instructions.
Encourage peer support for pupils who may be hesitant.

Cross-Curricular Links

Science: Introduction to the heart as an organ that can sometimes stop working properly.
English: New vocabulary - CPR, defibrillator, compressions, emergency.
Citizenship: Understanding responsibility and helping others in emergencies.

Extension Ideas for Enthusiastic Pupils

Design a poster showing the steps of CPR for display in the classroom or corridors.
Create a simple “Stay Safe” booklet including emergency numbers and first aid basics.
Visit or invite a local paramedic or first aider for a demonstration (if possible).

Teacher’s Notes

Emphasise this is a very simplified introduction; detailed CPR training is for adults.
Be sensitive to any pupils who may have experienced emergencies or trauma – handle discussions with care.
Reinforce hygiene—use hand gel and ensure dolls are cleaned after use.

This dynamic, hands-on final lesson ensures children leave the “Safe and Healthy Choices” unit feeling empowered with basic knowledge of first aid, potentially sparking lifelong awareness and confidence in safety.