The dangers of drugs and effects of anti social behaviour were brought to life by Rhondda Cynon Taf school children at a recent presentation evening.
Pupils from five primary schools took part in the event at Bryn Celynnog Comprehensive School, Beddau, Pontypridd, showing off their singing, dancing and acting skills.
Behind their performances were messages on the effects of substance misuse and anti social behaviour which they had been taught as part of the police educational programme SAFE (Substance Awareness for Everyone) which teaches Year Six children about the dangers of alcohol, tobacco and drugs.
Taff Chief Inspector Huw Lewis, who presented the pupils with certificates, said: “The children had clearly taken on board the serious issues that they had been taught by officers as part of SAFE and were able to use that knowledge to entertain the community.
“I was extremely impressed by their positive attitude, talent and enthusiasm.”
Councillor Paul Cannon, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Community Safety, said: “It is important that our younger residents have a clear understanding of the issues that affect them and the dangers that can be posed by substance misuse and anti-social behaviour.
“We work hard with the police and schools to put on innovative and engaging classroom-based workshops that allow pupils to get to grips with the issues that matter the most, hopefully giving them the information and confidence they need to make the right decisions.”
The primary schools that took part were Gwauncelyn, Maesybryn, Llanilltud Faerdref, Llwyncrwn and Gwaunmeisgyn.
Gwauncelyn sang a Lady Ga Ga song, Maesybryn did their own version of the television show the Weakest Link by, while Llanuilltud Faedref pupils performed a self-penned play.
Llwycrwn sang Eye of the Tiger and Gwaunmeisgyn performed a SAFE version of the YMCA.
Councillor Eudine Hanagan, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, said: “It was obvious the children had grasped a firm understanding of the issues.
“Thanks to the cluster worker Kimberley Mckenzie at Bryn Celynnog, the year six pupils in all these primary schools were brought together for an enjoyable and important experience that has, also, enabled an easier transition to secondary school.”
