PUPILS representing almost 50 Pembrokeshire schools attended a conference on children’s rights recently. The Student Voice Conference was held at Picton Castle to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child). Guest speaker was Keith Towler, Children’s Commissioner for Wales. The youngsters, who represented 49 school councils, also took part in workshops learning how to make their voices heard and take part in decisionmaking.
Cllr Sue Perkins, Cabinet Member for Education and Safeguarding, said the council had adopted the UNCRC and launched a Pledge to all children and young people earlier this year. “We take the issue of children’s rights very seriously,” she said. “Our children of today will be the adults of tomorrow so a happy childhood is the best possible foundation they can have to become well-rounded adults.
It’s also important that they learn from an early age how to be heard so they can play a full role in society.” The conference was organised by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Children and Young People’s Rights Office. The aim of the Pledge is to ensure that every child and young person is able to fulfil their potential to live a life free from abuse and poverty, is healthy and happy, has a good education and has opportunities for quality leisure activities.
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