POLOKWANE – Learners at Stepping Stones Early Learning Centre recently received an exciting and educational visit from ER24 Emergency Medical Care as part of the school’s annual programme to expose children to different careers.

According to principal Ansie van Heerden, the initiative aims to broaden young learners’ understanding of the world.

“We believe that when a child is born, they don’t know everything. If we don’t teach them, they might miss out on learning about the world around them,” she said.

During the visit, ER24 basic life support practitioner Karabo Moloto educated the learners about emergency medical services and shared the emergency number, 084 124. He encouraged the children to repeat the number to test their memory and asked what they already knew about emergency services.

Learners were also given the opportunity to explore the inside of an ambulance, where they were introduced to the equipment used by paramedics.

Following the session, ER24 emergency care practitioner Enslin Sambo demonstrated the ambulance siren, giving learners a chance to hear how it sounds in real life. Moloto also showcased various tools used in emergencies, including safety helmets, headlamps, different types of safety gloves, goggles and a push-to-talk (PTT) radio.

Van Heerden said the centre regularly invites professionals from different industries to inspire curiosity and help learners explore various career paths.

“By the end of the year, children take part in memorable field trips and gain experiences they will always remember,” she said.

She added that the school community appreciated the visit.

“We, as management, teachers and learners of Stepping Stones, would like to sincerely thank ER24 for taking the time to visit and teach the learners about ambulances, the services you provide, and for your friendliness. Thank you very much for your presence.”