Three students have been recognized for their quick thinking and bravery after a classmate experienced a medical emergency at school. The students promptly alerted staff and called for an ambulance, ensuring the classmate received immediate care and has since recovered.
Recognizing Courage and Calm
The students were awarded Courage in Action bravery awards by Hato Hone St John at their school’s end-of-year prizegiving. The presentation, held on the school field with families gathered under marquees, began with traditional karakia, waiata, and kapa haka performances.
Each student received a certificate, a cape, and a first aid kit as part of the award. One of the recipients, Marley, is an active cadet with the Doubtless Bay St John Youth Division. He credited his training with helping him remain calm and know what to do during the emergency, stating, “Having St John’s [Youth] training allowed me to think and not worry and know what to do. It was a good feeling to help my friend.”
Hato Hone St John’s community engagement co-ordinator for Northland, Natalie Samson, praised the students’ maturity, saying, “They showed maturity well beyond their years, showing real mana and doing exactly what was needed to get help quickly.” The parents of the student who received medical attention also expressed their gratitude, gifting the three boys with leis made of sweets.
The Courage in Action awards are presented as part of the St John in Schools programme, recognizing children who demonstrate bravery in emergencies or positively impact the wellbeing of others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the St John in Schools programme?
As part of the St John in Schools programme, Hato Hone St John present Courage in Action bravery awards to school children who act bravely in an emergency or have a positive impact on the wellbeing of others.
How are students nominated for a Courage in Action award?
Hato Hone St John receives award nominations through the Hato Hone St John community educators, ambulance crews, and emergency call handlers, as well as teachers, family members of the child, and members of the public who were involved in the incident.
What did the students receive as part of their award?
Each boy received a certificate, a cape and a first aid kit.
How might empowering students with first aid training impact their communities in the future?