Yes. Whilst SCA in school-age children is rare, resuscitation attempts at schools are more likely to be made on an adult — a staff member or visitor — than a pupil. An AED on site provides potential benefit for everyone present, not just students.
Having a prominently located AED also means students become familiar with the equipment and can learn about resuscitation and defibrillation as part of first aid education — a benefit that extends well beyond the school gates.
Since September 2023, all state-funded schools in England have been required by law to have at least one AED on site. The Resuscitation Council UK guidance on defibrillators in schools provides detailed advice on placement, maintenance, and training. The Department for Education has also published guidance on AEDs in schools covering legal requirements and best practice.