Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) in Schools
In the event of a cardiac arrest, an AED is a medical device that can deliver an electric shock to restore a person’s normal heart rhythm.
All schools in the UK, including maintained schools, academies, and independent schools, can purchase defibrillators from NHS Supply Chain under arrangements set by the Department for Education. These arrangements are also available to:
- Sixth form and further education colleges
- Maintained and independent nursery schools
- Pre-school establishments
- Private, voluntary and independent nurseries
- Playgroups
- Holiday and out-of-school providers.
Other organisations, such as local authorities, multi-academy trusts, and parents’ associations, can also purchase on behalf of these establishments. Details of the school or other eligible setting will be required at the time of purchase.
See our Useful Links section for the latest guidance from the Department for Education (DfE) on the purchase, installation, usage and maintenance of an AED in your local school. You can also find information relating to the broader AEDs for Schools programme on the www.gov.uk website.
Alternatively to learn more about the AEDs for Schools programme please contact: