A NEW West Midlands Police scheme being held in conjunction with Coventry schools is aimed at inspiring the officers of tomorrow and keeping youngsters safe.
The Junior PCSOs have joined Speed Watch groups to speak to motorists about safe driving near their schools and local patrols.
Members have also met their police teams, and even turned detective in a mock crime scene where they had to find ‘stolen’ items and search for evidence.
Most importantly, the year five and six pupils have been educated about the dangers of drugs and gangs, grooming and how to stay safe online, along with the importance of not getting involved in anti-social behaviour and having respect for their communities.
The schools team in North East Coventry has been running the project in Moat House, Good Shepherd and Wyken Croft primary schools and aims to roll it out to all 33 schools in its patch.
The budding PCs wear a uniform of a high-vis jacket and a Junior PCSO cap – and on completing the course – each receive a certificate signed by Coventry’s Ch Supt Mike O’Hara.
PCSO Libby Stiles, said: “The children know they are representing their school when they are out and many have told me it makes them feel proud – it’s brilliant to hear that.
“It teaches the children good values and respect for their community while also getting across some really important personal safety messages.”
