Health Promoting Schools

Safety and accident prevention

Photographs of primary pupils cycling and walking to school Copyright: J.Bewley/Sustrans

Safety and accident prevention should cover the four following areas. 

Road safety

Pupils should learn: 

  • that roads are dangerous
  • the purpose of the pavement, kerb and road
  • that there is a need to keep themselves safe
  • that trusted adults can help them cross the road
  • the rules to keep them safe (Green Cross Code)
  • that it is their duty as citizens to keep to the rules
  • that accidents may happen if rules are not followed
  • that children use roads in a variety of ways – as pedestrians, cyclists, and passengers
  • a greater awareness of road hazards, road signs and safer places to cross
  • to demonstrate safe cycling skills
  • the impact that traffic has on our environment.      

Safety at home and school

Pupils should learn: 

  • that there are potential dangers at home - for example, faulty electrical goods
  • that most things are safe if used properly
  • ways of becoming safe
  • that each pupil has a part to play in keeping the classroom clean and safe
  • the importance of good hygiene
  • safe food practices
  • sensible computer habits to maintain health.
Photographs of senior pupils in talk and a first aid demonstration

Safety outdoors

Pupils should learn: 

  • factors that make places outdoors safe, risky or dangerous
  • that there are related rules to be followed
  • that each pupil has a responsibility to follow the rules
  • simple ways of getting help - for example, phoning 999
  • that it is important to keep safe near water
  • safe ways of being near water
  • ways to keep the environment safe, clean and healthy
  • ways of protecting themselves from the sun
  • emergency first aid skills.      

Personal safety

Pupils should learn: 

  • simple ways of keeping safe - for example, yell, run, tell
  • ways of getting help
  • safe ways of responding to risks of health and personal safety in their community
  • the importance of telling.      

Resources

Find practical resources on safety and accident prevention using our Resources search. It features details of a wide range of resources including the following:

practitioners rule