The 2023-24 Mini-Police Squad at Peasedown St John Primary School had their first roll-call with PCSOs Louise Jones and Tony McIntosh this week. They have been given their uniform and taught how to fall in line.

The Mini-Police initiative is a police engagement programme that has been running successfully at Peasedown St John School for the past four years with children in Year 5. Children must apply and be interviewed for the role. They are each given a uniform and attend regular training sessions led by PCSOs Louise and Tony. Topics covered include traffic and speed awareness with a visit from the local police speed enforcement team, first aid training and a trip to the American Museum.

Headteacher Ruth Noall commented, “We are very fortunate to have the mini-police programme at Peasedown School. Over the years we have seen how the children build their confidence, learn new skills and understand more about our local community policing team through fun and engaging activities.

“This is a fantastic way for the school to support and engage with our village community.

“This new cohort are incredibly excited and look very smart in their uniform.

“I am looking forward to watching them take part in the programme over the coming weeks and months.

“Next week the children will use speed guns to help monitor the speed of traffic passing the school gates.”