The sun was beginning to burn through the clouds as we look forward to a beautiful weekend of warm weather. It was a medically focused day, as our students aged 13 – 15 took part in First Aid Training, while our students aged 16 – 18, studying on our Medical School Preparation course, had the chance to go on a practical field trip.

Bright and early, our 16 – 18 year old students headed into the city for their medical workshop. They began by learning how to properly wash, sterilise and dress themselves before surgery, and there was even a little race to see who could get ready in the least time.

The course leader then encouraged them to make use of a high-tech machine which shows the amount of bacteria on the hands. They found this both disgusting and strangely fascinating, but it did help the students to understand the importance of the lengthy cleaning process.

Once they were sufficiently germ-free, they learnt how to take blood pressure, as well as how to examine a patient’s eyes and ears. Counsellor Jake acted as a guinea pig for most of the workshop, much to the amusement of the students. Finally, they practised CPR and learnt how to use a defibrillator, before having the chance to test out the ultrasound machine – all very exciting!

The students’ level of concentration and teamwork throughout the workshop was notable, and the whole group found it really helpful to be able to experience a few hours in the busy life of a medical professional.