Citizens Somerset
Around 80 Year 10 and 11 students take part in our citizens programme, which operates as a carousel of six different elements: Local, Global, Eco, Senior, Radio, Equal Citizens.
We are also part of Citizens Somerset, working on campaigns associated with Fair fairs for Young People (bus travel), a street safety campaign and currently leading an alliance listening campaign into Mental Health across Somerset.
· There was a great turn out for the Great Big Safety Ride -an escorted ride along the A38 showing support for a Wellington to Taunton cycle path. In collaboration with Citizens Somerset.
· Our students were also involved in a Beach Clean with Plastic Free North Devon
Aims
To engage positively with our local community
Background
· We are also part of Citizens Somerset, working on campaigns associated with Fair fairs for Young People (bus travel), a street safety campaign and currently leading an alliance listening campaign into Mental Health across Somerset.
· As part of our involvement and work with the local community, we recently hosted the Citizens Somerset Wellington to Taunton Cycle route Stakeholder conference. With input from Wellington Town Council, Transition Town Wellington, local MP Rebecca Pow, students and staff, the conference helped to shape the future direction of the project.
· Our Citizens students hosted an Intergenerational Tea Party, and welcomed a large group of elderly people to enjoy chat and music. Organised through Age UK Somerset the aim was to engender empathy, understanding and build relationships across the age groups. Our guests shared their wisdom and advice to young people - their top three tips were: "embrace every opportunity," "do we use our smart phones too much?" and the winning top tip..."Do what you enjoy and what you are good at! Follow your heart... "This came from Mike, who won the Wig of Wisdom! It was a fantastic, inspirational and heart- warming afternoon that was enjoyed by young and old alike.
Resources
Our Citizens programme take place within the school timetable so there are no resources required.
Impact
Our Citizens Programme delivers over 5,000 hours of community service
There was a great turn out for the Great Big Safety Ride -an escorted ride along the A38 showing support for a Wellington to Taunton cycle path. In collaboration with Citizens Somerset.
· Our students were also involved in a Beach Clean with Plastic Free North Devon
Pupil Involvement
Year 10 students and staff
Frequency
Weekly - every Friday afternoon