Engaging Young Minds: PMNW Visits Hilderthorpe Primary School

On 14th of November, the Prison Me No Way (PMNW) team had the pleasure of visiting Hilderthorpe Primary School in the UK to deliver a series of engaging and informative sessions focused on online safety, antisocial behaviour, and the realities of prison life. This initiative aimed to educate students and empower them to make positive choices as they navigate their formative years.

One of the highlights of the day was an insightful talk from an experienced ex-prison officer. The officer provided a candid perspective on prison life, sharing stories that illustrated the consequences of poor choices and the importance of staying on the right path. The children were captivated, asking thoughtful questions and seeking to understand the complexities of life behind bars.

To bring the concept of prison to life, we set up a mock-up prison cell, allowing the students to step inside and experience a small glimpse of what life in prison might entail. This interactive element was a powerful tool for engagement, as the children explored the cell and shared their reactions. It sparked meaningful discussions about decision-making, responsibility, and the effects of antisocial behaviours .

In addition to the prison life sessions, we also covered vital topics of online safety. Given the increasing presence of technology in their lives, it is crucial for young people to understand how to navigate the digital world safely. Our team emphasized the importance of being aware of online dangers and encouraged the children to think critically about their online interactions.

We were fortunate to have representatives from Network Rail and Northern Power Grid join us for the day, further enriching the learning experience. They discussed safety around railways and electrical installations, highlighting how important it is to be vigilant and informed in their environments.

Poster from a student after their ‘Online Safety’ session

The visit to Hilderthorpe Primary School was a tremendous success, and we hope that our sessions made a lasting impact on the children. At PMNW, we are committed to teaching young people about the potential consequences of their choices and encouraging them to aspire to be their best selves.

We look forward to more engaging partnerships with schools across the country to inspire and educate the next generation.