CPS Security and Netcare 911 teach safety the fun way at Abacus Kids Academy

Abacus Kids Academy in Verwoerdpark became a hub of excitement and learning on June 13, when the school hosted a special Safety Awareness Day featuring visits from CPS Security and Netcare 911.

Sirens, smiles and meaningful messages filled the day as learners engaged with emergency service personnel, learning life-saving skills in a fun and age-appropriate way.

“Our recent school theme was Safety, and we always aim to integrate important life skills and awareness into our curriculum,” said Megan Radyn, principal of Abacus Kids Academy.

“The idea for a Safety Awareness Day was a natural extension of this theme. We focus not only on personal safety but also on keeping others and the world around us safe. It’s important for children to learn these values from an early age in a meaningful and engaging way.”

Children met real emergency workers, learning how to call for help, recognise road signs, and understand the basics of bicycle safety and first aid.

A catchy sing-along of 082 911 helped them remember the emergency number, while the presence of a CPS Security vehicle and an ambulance sparked wide-eyed wonder.

Essie Bekker, vice principal at the school, said: “We wanted the children to see real-life heroes in action and understand who to turn to in an emergency. CPS Security and Netcare 911 are trusted and highly visible in our community, and their involvement brought authenticity and excitement to the day.”

The young learners were fully immersed, listening attentively, asking questions and interacting with the guests.
From sitting in the ambulance to pretending to be secured with handcuffs, the activities were both educational and memorable.

One child even asked, “What happens if the nurse breaks her legs?” The emergency team explained she would go to hospital, to which the learner confidently replied, “No, you can take care of yourself,” much to everyone’s amusement.

Each class also took part in a bike track activity using road signs to practise following traffic rules.

Children rode around on push bikes and wheel toys, applying what they had learned in a fun, physical way.

“We believe children learn best through experience and participation,” said Radyn. “Visits like these bring our weekly values to life, whether it’s kindness, responsibility or awareness, and help children apply them in practical ways.”

Safety is not limited to events, however. According to Radyn, the school reinforces lessons throughout the year using songs, stories, role-play and monthly evacuation drills.

“Safety is part of everything we do every day, from using ‘walking feet’ and ‘gentle hands’ to knowing when and how to ask for help,” Radyn added. “Our approach is centred on play-based learning, and we make sure serious topics are taught in a way that feels safe, empowering and age-appropriate.”

Looking ahead, the school plans to continue hosting interactive days like this, welcoming more organisations and individuals to support their learners’ growth.

“We’re always looking for creative ways to engage our children and help them see how what they learn in school connects to the world around them,” said Megan.

The day left a lasting impression not only on the children but also on the adults who witnessed the joy of little learners meeting their heroes and discovering their own power to stay safe.

“We hope they remember that safety is something we can all take part in, no matter how small we are,” Radyn said. “Whether it’s looking out for each other, knowing who to call or stopping at a road sign, every action matters.”