Our Year 6 students got a firsthand look at what it takes to prepare for, and respond to natural disasters, thanks to a visit from the dedicated volunteers of the Redland City State Emergency Service (SES). This engaging session brought their classroom studies on Natural Disasters to life, showing them how emergency services tackle everything from floods to bushfires.
The SES is a not-for-profit, volunteer emergency service organisation. The SES volunteers, which included our own Year 6 teacher, Mrs Forster, started off the visit with an insightful talk. They explained the different hazards and risks which we face in the Redlands and also walked the students through the Disaster Framework within which they operate. It was interesting to hear about their diverse capabilities, from clearing storm damage and responding to floods to supporting other agencies with bushfire and search and rescue operations.
A highlight for many students was the opportunity to view the actual equipment and vehicles used by the SES. Their eyes lit up as they explored the various kit, trucks, and even a flat-bottomed boat.
Groups of students also engaged in a friendly competition to determine who could best work together to smoothly lift a stretcher and carry Fred, the training dummy. They quickly discovered just how heavy Fred was as it simulated the actual weight of a human. It was a great activity to highlight the physical demands and teamwork involved in emergency response.
Our Year 6 students thoroughly enjoyed the visit from the SES and the opportunity to speak directly with experts who have real-world experience, providing an invaluable connection to their classroom learning.
We extend our gratitude to the SES volunteers for taking time out of their schedules to share their extensive knowledge and expertise with our students.
