Safety first for pupils as they join secondaries

About 100 youngsters from six west Leeds primary schools will be taught about different cultures and religions plus the impact of anti-social behaviour – such as bad behaviour on buses and the dangers of playing with fire – at an event this week.

The event at Safety Central in Bramley, Leeds, is being led by West Yorkshire Police, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and bus firm First West & North Yorkshire.

Inspector Mark Bownass, of the west inner neighbourhood policing team, said: "Making the move from primary to secondary school can be a daunting prospect for young people and we want to give them a headstart by helping them to learn about some of the issues.

"The secondary schools they are going to reflect the diverse population of the area and the event is a good opportunity for them to develop their understanding of different cultures and religions.

"The event is also highlighting how bad behaviour either on the buses or out in the community can be dangerous to themselves and others and can land them in trouble."

Insp Bownass added: "We hope the day will help to ease them into secondary school life and set them on their way to fulfilling their potential and becoming good citizens."

School-based police officers from Leeds Safer Schools Partnership will be on hand as will 'school buddies' from Swallow Hill Community College and Leeds West Academy. The current first year students will act as mentors to the new pupils.

Representatives of Christian, Muslim, Sikh, Hindu and Jewish faiths will give presentations to the Year 6 pupils. The fire service will highlight the consequences of starting a fire and teach the pupils about fire safety.

The pupils taking part are from Armley Primary School, Castleton Primary School, Whingate Primary School, Bramley Primary School, Hollybush Primary School and Raynville Primary School.