Victoria’s future lifesavers are learning how to help, and some of them haven’t even started school yet.

In 2024, St John Ambulance Victoria delivered free first aid training to over 110,000 primary school students across the state, our biggest year in half a decade. This brings our total to more than 1.4 million children trained since the First Aid in Schools Program began 13 years ago.

These students now have the skills and confidence to step in when someone is hurt, at school, at home or in the community.

Why First Aid for Kids Matters

“Teaching kids first aid isn’t just helpful, it’s essential,” said Gordon Botwright, St John Ambulance Victoria CEO. “In a real emergency, every second counts. We want every child in Victoria to know how to save a life.”

This program is one of the most trusted and valued in Victorian schools. In fact, 9 out of 10 teachers say they would recommend it to their colleagues.

Yet, despite its huge impact, the program is not funded by government or external organisations. In 2024, St John invested $640,000 of its own funds to ensure kids across Victoria could still access this critical training.

“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve done so far,” said Mr Botwright. “But we can’t keep doing it on our own. We need the support of government, businesses, and the public to help us continue training the next generation of lifesavers.”

Introducing Our Kindergarten First Aid Program

Now, we are going one step further.

St John is proud to bring back our Kindergarten First Aid Program, created especially for preschoolers. Through hands-on learning and fun storytelling, young children will be gently introduced to the idea of helping others.

The program is delivered by our friendly volunteers in green and focuses on building awareness and confidence in little learners.

“You’re never too young to learn how to help,” said Mr Botwright. “This new program will empower even the youngest minds, and we know the kids will love it.”

The Kindergarten Program is now open for bookings: Kindy FASCH EOI

Help Us Reach More Children

International health experts say all children should learn first aid. And with over a million young Victorians already trained, St John is leading the way, but we need your help to keep going.

To donate and support our First Aid in Schools and Kindergarten Programs, so we can keep delivering it for free to schools across Victoria, please visit  

Let’s work together to build a safer, stronger Victoria.