Hertsmere ‘Mini Police’ educate fellow pupils on policing and crime

Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards visited a primary school in Radlett as part of a scheme to help police engage with young people.

Pupils at Newberries Primary School took part in Hertfordshire Constabulary’s ‘Mini-Police’ programme, which aims to educate young people about anti-social behaviour and the negative effect it has on society.

Participants in the course are given a series of educational presentations on subjects including graffiti, online safety and bullying by a local Police Community Support Officer. They are then encouraged to create and present their own talks to fellow pupils in a special assembly.

The children are also designated within the school as ‘Mini-Police Officers’, issued with hi-vis jackets and mocked up police warrant cards, and given the task of encouraging younger pupils they to ensure they are considerate of others.

Mr Ash-Edwards attended the final presentation by Newberries’ Year 5 class, to learn of the children’s new perspective and understanding of what it means to be a good citizen.

Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Mr Ash Edwards said:

“Congratulations to Year 5 for completing the Mini-Police course – you were very impressive and did your school, parents and colleagues proud. The pupils worked brilliantly to bring to life the concepts they learned about during the Mini-Police programme, and they demonstrated a real grasp of the subjects they were taught about.

“They passed on to their younger peers the importance of making sure they never engage in bullying, as well as anti-social behaviour like graffiti, excessive noise, and hassling others online. It was very positive to see them act as role models. I’m sure I saw some future police officers among the Mini-Police ranks.

“Initiatives like Mini-Police are a great way to build trust and confidence in policing amongst younger generations as well as being an important opportunity to take an educational approach that aims to help prevents crime and anti-social behaviour down the line.”

Speaking of the Mini-Police scheme, teacher Mr Costi said:

“I believe the Mini Police programme provides an essential opportunity for children to understand how to act safely and pro-socially in their community, but also to help bridge the gap between the police and the public, where the police can be seen as friendly faces who can provide support and help within these communities.”