THE LATEST lesson for public services students at University Academy Keighley was a real lifesaver.

The sixth form students were given first aid training as part of a BTEC course, learning how to take care of casualties and to respond to emergencies.

The teenagers may one day find their skills essential, because the public services courses aimed at preparing students for careers in the emergency services, armed forces and voluntary sector.

The three-hour course, which leads to a certificate in Essential First Aid, covered casualty care, chest pains, severe bleeding, choking, resuscitation and what to do with a unresponsive casualty.

The students watched real-life video clips, listened to 999 emergency calls, and were able to practice on medical dummies.

Year 12 student Ihtisham Anjum said: “It’s something that everyone should do – it’s a life saver!”

A school spokesman said students had gained an incredible insight into the work and opportunities within the voluntary sector.

She added: “They now also benefit from a valuable life skill that will enhance their CVs in preparation for work.”

St John Ambulance school trainer Caroline Kennedy-Drabble delivered the intensive, enabling the most of the students to achieve a pass mark, allowing them to administer first aid.