A routine Sunday table tennis tournament turned into an extraordinary moment of courage for Reddam House Bedfordview learner, Sarah Hunkin, whose quick actions and first aid training helped save a man’s life.

During the event on September 7, Sarah noticed a commotion across the hall. A fellow player, Rainer Sztab, had collapsed and was unresponsive.

While others attempted to turn him onto his side, Sarah immediately stepped forward, identified herself as a trained first aider, and calmly took control of the situation.

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After checking his airway, breathing and circulation, she realised he had no pulse and began CPR. She continued chest compressions until the ambulance arrived. “It was like an instinct,” Sarah said.

“My training taught me exactly what to do, and in that moment, all I could focus on was following the steps and trying my best to help him.”

Weeks later, Sarah met Rainer again, walking, talking and recovering well. The emotional reunion reminded her of the profound impact of her decision to act. “It made me feel grateful that I was able to help save his life. I’ll never forget that moment,” she said.

Sarah first discovered her passion for first aid through Academy, the school’s enrichment programme that encourages learners to explore interests beyond academics and sport.

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After completing the school’s Level 1 certification, she continued private training and is now working toward Level 3. Her experience, she says, has shaped how she sees herself.

“It taught me that preparation changes people’s circumstances. It adds control to any situation, and it can save a life.”

Executive head of Reddam House Bedfordview, Stephen Hazley, says Sarah’s actions highlight the real purpose of the school’s holistic philosophy.

“We are incredibly proud of Sarah. The way she stepped forward, stayed calm and took charge in such a critical moment reflects exactly the confidence, compassion and readiness we aim to instil in our students through an approach that goes beyond academics, arts and sport.

“Her actions show the real-world value of nurturing life skills. You never know when they might make all the difference.

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“By encouraging growth through leadership, service and creative expression, students discover their talents, build essential skills and develop a strong sense of purpose that prepares them to make a meaningful impact beyond the classroom.”

He explains that the Academy programme is shaped both by student interest and staff passion.

“We ask staff to share a skill that could interest teenagers, and we ask students what they’d like to try. These experiences teach confidence, empathy and responsibility because life skills are learned through doing, not theory.”

Hazley says stories like Sarah’s show the depth and unexpected value of enrichment opportunities. “For some learners, it’s a chance to try something new; for others, it may spark a career path.

“Most importantly, it gives them the courage to step into unfamiliar situations. We want our learners to be adventurous and confident, and this programme allows that.”

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Sarah believes first aid has made her more well-rounded, teaching her resilience, compassion and the ability to think under pressure. “Life skills add to who you are and how you grow,” she said.

“The opportunities at Reddam add value in ways you don’t always expect.” Her message to other learners is simple: “Be grateful for these opportunities; they might show you passions you didn’t know you had.”