SCHOOLS all over Wiltshire are being encouraged to join St John Ambulance’s Big First Aid Lesson Live, next month.

Hosted by TV medic, Dr Ranj, the free, interactive hour-long programme is being filmed in front of a live audience of students and streamed directly to classrooms via the internet on Friday June 17.

And the nation’s leading first aid charity, wants teachers to sign up and help meet its aim of teaching 250,000 students learn vital life saving skills.

Dr Ranj is following in the footsteps of Claudia Winkleman, who presented the lesson to over 189,000 pupils in 2015.

This year the ambition is even bigger, and there are two different Big First Aid Lessons – one for primary and one for secondary schools.

The only equipment schools need to take part is an internet connection and a screen (such as an interactive whiteboard) for their pupils to watch in the classroom or during assembly.

Dr Ranj said: "As a doctor, I know only too well how important first aid can be in an emergency. Being able to immediately help someone – a family member, school mate, a neighbour, or even a stranger – can be life saving. But you don’t have to be a medic like me to learn or use it.

"Anyone can learn first aid at any age and that’s why I’m supporting St John Ambulance’s Big First Aid Lesson Live.

"I’m excited to be hosting this year, as I know the lesson will help enrich the next generation with the confidence and knowledge to save a life.

"We know schools are time-pressed but the Big First Aid Lesson Live is free, easy to join, and memorable, so we hope teachers everywhere sign their classes up and get involved."

This year, the Big First Aid Lesson Live will cover a whole range of topics, including choking, chest pains, seizures and insect bites. There will also be live demos, incredible real life stories, chances for student to ask questions, and other interactive elements.

St John Ambulance regional director Steve Hargreaves said: "The Big First Aid Lesson Live is an accessible, easy to learn, and fun resource - students will finish the lesson feeling confident they could one day be a life saver.

"I encourage each and every school to take part so their pupils don’t miss out on this exciting and educational event."

To sign up to the Big First Aid Lesson Live, or for more information visit www.sja.org.uk/bigfirstaidlesson