Wolverhampton school and officers collaborate in youth engagement initiative
Patrols aim to foster positive relationships and early intervention
Wolverhampton City Centre Neighbourhood Team is working alongside St Regis CE Academy to engage with young people in the city centre.
This partnership aims to foster positive relationships and address potential areas of anti-social behaviour after school hours.
Patrols in Wolverhampton city centre and bus station recently included PC Pete McKinnon, Headteacher Chris Green, and the school's dog mentor, Orla.
The initiative is part of a broader plan to encourage early intervention through collaborative efforts.
Orla, a mentoring dog at the academy, attracted attention from the public and young people, prompting conversations and sparking positive interactions.
The programme originates from the Wolverhampton Police and Schools panel, chaired by the school's vice principal for safeguarding and inclusion, Tom Barradas-Lingard.
Headteacher Chris Green expressed pride in participating in the initiative alongside local police.
“Our focus is on being visible and supporting our young people beyond the classroom,” Green said. “Encouraging results are already evident, and we hope to expand this approach to other schools across Wolverhampton.”
PC McKinnon highlighted the value of the collaboration, stating the importance of engaging with pupils during patrols.
Local teachers joining patrols provide opportunities for constructive discussions that may not occur otherwise.
The long-term aim is to involve schools across Wolverhampton, adopting a multi-agency approach to tackle anti-social behaviour through prevention, education, and positive intervention.