Students in Years 8 and 9 took part in important sessions this week delivered by members of the Violence Reduction Unit.
The VRU is an initiative linked to Northumbria Police, aimed at providing young people with vital information about safety, risk and the choices they may face. The sessions form part of our wider work to help students understand how to keep themselves and others safe, both in school and in the wider community.
Year 8 students took part in a session focused on key messages around knife crime, while Year 9 students explored important topics linked to County Lines. These are serious issues, but the sessions were delivered in a clear, careful and age-appropriate way, helping students to recognise risk, understand possible warning signs and know where to turn for help.
The visiting speakers, who deliver sessions across the region, were full of praise for our students. They commented on their mature participation, thoughtful insights and helpful questions throughout the day.
Mr Greenshields, Deputy Headteacher, said:
“It is really important that young people have opportunities to learn about these issues in a safe and age-appropriate way. The sessions helped students to think carefully about risk, safety and the importance of making positive choices. They also reinforced the message that students are never on their own, and that there are trusted adults and sources of support available if they are worried about themselves or someone else.
“We were really proud of the way our students engaged with the sessions. They listened carefully, asked thoughtful questions and showed real maturity in the way they approached some challenging topics.
“We would also encourage parents and carers, particularly of students in Year 9, to follow up this learning at home. The County Lines video used in the session provides a helpful starting point for conversation, and these messages are strongest when they are reinforced both in school and at home.”
As part of the Year 9 session, students watched a video exploring County Lines. Parents and carers are encouraged to watch the video and use it as a starting point for further conversation at home.