Around 1,200 P7 pupils from across Borders Schools, are taking part in the ‘Crucial Crew’ initiative which has pupils participating in interactive workshops focussing on personal safety.
The scenarios and workshops aim to help pupils avoid becoming victims of crime, deal with dangerous situations, learn social responsibility, work as a team, and understand the roles of the emergency services and other partner agencies.
Councillor Robin Tatler, Executive Member for Public Safety and Resilience
"Learning through real-life experience is one of the most powerful and long-lasting. The scenarios the pupils take part in today will stay with them far longer than if the same information were deliered in a classroom.
"They're gaining paractical, lifelong skills that could help save their own lives or the lives of others. And in a digital-first world, we shouldn't forget that there are just as many dangers lurking behind the screen as there are under deep waters. It's essential that we give our young poeple the knkowledge and tools they need to keep themsleves safe.
"Initiatives like Crucial Crew also play a vital role in strengthening relationships between young people and our emergency services and partner agencies. Engaging with them directly, in realistic situations, helps pupils better understand the roles they perform while learning how to respond in challenging circumstances. It's a fantastic programme, and I hope it continues for many years to come."
The agencies involved are: Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Services, Scottish Power, Royal Highland Education Trust, Border Water Rescue Team, Inspire, British Transport Team, Jed Hearts Here, Kelso Heartbeat.
Ends