PORTWAY Infant and Junior Schools have installed a potentially life-saving defibrillator on their school site.

The device has been bought and installed by the Portway Schools’ Association (the name of the joint PTA for the two schools).

The defibrillator is available for anyone to use when the school is open and when there are any other groups using the school premises.

Sarah Thomas, PSA chairman, said: “The Portway Schools’ Association committee are extremely proud that we have been able to fund the purchase and installation of the AED unit, although we hope we never need to use it.

“We would like to thank all of the parents, staff and children who have helped us to raise the funds for this by attending various events hosted by the PSA.”

Tim Deery, head teacher of Portway Junior School, said: “Portway Infant and Junior Schools are passionate about keeping the school and the community as safe as possible and we are very grateful for our PSA for raising the funds to put in the defibrillator.

“It is available for anyone to use when the school is open and it may save a life one day.”

Claire Vignaux, deputy head teacher at Portway Infant School, said: “All involved in the school have welcomed the decision to purchase the device.

“Our schools see ourselves at the heart of the community and this is a practical way of showing it.”

Some staff members will be given some basic training, but the system is intended to be used by anyone and gives clear instructions on what to do.

It is situated in the middle of the site between the two schools but also near the sports field.