Children Taught How to Survive Rip Currents in Lifesaving School Assembly

RNLI visit Launceston Primary School with water safety tips ahead of summer

Pupils at Launceston Primary School have been given a vital lesson in how to stay safe around water, thanks to a recent visit from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

The session, led by RNLI volunteers Charlie and Ivo, gave students clear, practical guidance on how to respond in dangerous situations at the beach or near open water. As summer approaches, the assembly was aimed at making sure children understand how to avoid hazards and what to do in an emergency.

Learning to “Float to Live”

The children were introduced to the lifesaving “Float to Live” technique, which encourages people to lie on their back and stay calm if they get into trouble in the water. They also learned how to identify and steer clear of rip currents – strong, narrow currents that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore.

Through stories, demonstrations and interactive questions, Charlie and Ivo made sure the children were actively engaged and left with a better understanding of how to stay safe by the sea.

“Just what we want from learning that could one day save a life”

Kate Eyre, Principal at Launceston Primary School, said:

“Water safety is a vital life skill, especially living so close to the coast. We’re incredibly grateful to the RNLI for delivering such a powerful and practical session. The children left feeling more confident and empowered, just what we want from learning that could one day save a life.”

The school, which is part of Athena Learning Trust, extended thanks to Charlie, Ivo and the wider RNLI team for their continued support and commitment to safety education.

Launceston Primary School is rated Good by Ofsted for all key areas, including the quality of education, behaviour, personal development, leadership and early years provision. Inspectors praised the school community for creating a positive learning environment and noted that staff are determined for all pupils to succeed.