Academy students go behind bars for SMSC Day
Chris Prince
/ Categories: News
SMSC (Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural) Day always provides some real eye opening experiences for our students, and this term’s was certainly no different.
Year 8 students spent time finding out what life was like inside prison, thanks to the portable cell provided by Prison Me No Way. Once inside the claustrophobic room, prison officers told them exactly what life was like in jail, with all the nitty, gritty details included. The experience brought home the possible consequences of anti-social behaviour to both the convicts and their families.
In the gym, the organisation showed students the effects of anti-social behaviour through a ‘Confrontation Street’ roleplaying exercise which had our students acting out a drunken street scene. All agreed that the behaviour portrayed showed little respect for either themselves or those around them.
There were also workshops on a variety of other subjects, including contraception and relationships, avoiding drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence and the importance of respecting yourself and others.
The day is set to end with a grand finale, as Christian band Brightline play an end-of-week concert in the main hall from 6pm. Brightline are part of The Message Trust, which has been in the Academy all week to teach students about ‘the man in the mirror’ – self-esteem, self-confidence and how they can be perceived by others in a positive light.
Safeguarding Officer Mrs Fox said: “This has been another fantastic day and it has been inspiring to see our students interacting with agencies and participating in sessions.
“The aim of these days is that the students will hear the same positive messages from a range of agencies over the course of their school career, helping them to make informed choices about their health, relationships and futures.
“It is evident through Ofsted’s positively glowing comments about our students that they are already tolerant, well rounded and positive individuals. I would like to give my huge thanks to all the organisations that supported us throughout the day; everyone at the Academy is extremely grateful to you for your support.”