Over 1200 primary school children from across Wealden will be able to experience a ‘hands-on’ learning event at Bowles Outdoor Centre near Eridge and at Herstmonceux Castle.
The emphasis with Safety in Action is active learning by experiencing risk – even if children make mistakes along the way.
“Safety in Action is now in its 23rd year, and its simple formula of allowing children to learn through safe, supervised experience remains as effective as ever. And they have fun too.” said Councillor Claire Dowling, Cabinet member for Public Health and Community Safety. “Now we have expanded sessions to include two venues – one in the north at the Bowles Outdoor Centre, one in the south at Herstmonceux Castle – even more 10 -11 year olds can benefit from this learning experience.”
“What helps make the experience really memorable is the range of hazard situations we are able to cover. This is only possible through the excellent partnership working involving the blue light services, health professionals and other public services.“
The following hazard scenarios have been organised for this year’s events:
- Sussex Police – road safety and personal safety.
- South East Coast Ambulance – dealing with a casualty.
- East Sussex Fire and Rescue – reporting an arson attack and electrical safety.
- Southern Railway – rucksack on the railway line.
- RNLI – water safety.
- NHS school nurses – alcohol safety.
- Wealden District Council – safety on a farm.
To add to the challenge, the 48 Wealden primary schools taking part will be able to compete for a number of prizes including the Uckfield Lions Club Award for Overall Safety Champion and the Servomex Road Safety Award.
Each child will be presented with a workbook to take back to school in order to reinforce the safety messages learnt.
The first week will be held in the grounds of Bowles Outdoor Centre, near Crowborough, between 2 to 6 June; and the second week will return to Herstmonceux Castle between 16 to 20 June. Both venues have generously allowed the use of their facilities free of charge.
Refreshments have been donated by Sussex Police. Funding for this event has been awarded by the Safer Wealden Partnership.
