Virtual Reality Teaches Students Emergency Response

Over 1,200 Scottish high school students have been trained in emergency response skills through a virtual reality (VR) programme led by the Scottish Ambulance Service. Funded by NHS Charities Together, the Young Minds Save Lives pilot introduced VR headsets and escape-room scenarios to teach S3 students how to handle medical emergencies, including CPR, stroke recognition, drug-related incidents, and serious bleeding.

Designed with input from Shawlands Academy and Holyrood Secondary School, the sessions were delivered by local paramedics. Students reported significantly improved confidence and knowledge—such as a 97% increase in knowing when to use a defibrillator and a 150% boost in understanding the recovery position.

Feedback highlighted the interactive format as memorable and engaging. Leaders hope to secure funding to expand the programme nationally, aiming to build youth awareness of life-saving practices and preventative care tailored to local needs. Evaluations were conducted by the University of Glasgow.