PEOPLE in a dale village can look forward to a safer environment – thanks to the recruitment of a 13-child strong mini police squad.
Gainford Primary School’s year five group are undergoing training with Durham Agency Against Crime’s (DAAC) cadets to tackle issues such as anti-social behaviour and littering. Each child has their own uniform and after hosting an assembly to share their anti-crime message with their fellow pupils, the mini police squad will take part in a community litter pick.
Along with lessons on aspects such as anti-social behaviour and the police phonetic alphabet during six monthly sessions, each term the children also go on an outing.
Headteacher Chris Riley said these included visits to the cells at Spennymoor station and police control room.
She added: “The objective is to introduce these children to a positive experience of policing and to get them involved in the local community.
“Our mini police team have been learning about anti-social behaviour and about staying safe online. They are planning an assembly to share what they have learned with the rest of the school and they are going to be involved in litter picking in the village.”
The scheme is funded by DAAC. Mrs Riley said: “For us transport is the biggest cost so that is absolutely great. They are thoroughly enjoying it at the moment.”
The scheme is being promoted by the National Volunteer Police Cadets team and is aimed at children aged nine to 11.
