Cannock schools campaign on extremism a success
A new campaign in schools addressing extremism and radicalisation has been hailed a success.
Cannock Council’s Community Safety Team commissioned Loudmouth Education & Training to create and deliver a brand new theatre in education programme on extremism to students in Year 8 and 9.
It has been delivered in six secondary schools, Chaselea Pupil Referral Unit and two primary schools – engaging with more than 800 young people during the process.
Councillor Alan Pearson, leader for crime and partnerships, said: “The council is committed to ensuring people are aware of the signs of extremism and the associated factors as well as making sure people report any concerns they may have about an individual or group.
“It is fantastic to see that this campaign has had an impact on the students and teaching staff and has helped raise the profile of the Prevent agenda and extremism."
Matthew Ellis, Staffordshire commissioner for police, fire and rescue and crime, said: “Through the Proceeds of Crime Act, police are able to seize the ill-gotten gains of criminals and use them to make a real difference to our communities.
“I allocated money from the fund to support this important educational resource, and the results really do speak for themselves. It’s great to see the way the young people have responded to this campaign, with an increased awareness of extremism, and the confidence to seek help if they have any concerns in the future.”
Eleanor Vale, company director of Loudmouth Education & Training “We were thrilled with the responses from the pupils and staff to our new theatre in education programme on extremism.
"The evaluation results show that the drama and workshop really made them think more deeply about the repercussions of extremist actions and how they want to behave in the future.”
