ONE HUNDRED primary school children across two schools in Caerphilly are learning about a range of important social issues, thanks to a sponsorship by community-based opticians, Specsavers.
Specsavers has sponsored two educational books that have been distributed to pupils aged 9-11 in years 5 and 6 in Plasyfelin Primary School and the Twyn School.
Fifty pupils in Plasyfelin Primary School received copies of Caught in the Web, which focuses on internet safety by highlighting the dangers of social media, online gaming and the importance of protecting personal information.
Meanwhile, 50 pupils in the Twyn School received 50 copies of The Bad Apples, which addresses the consequences of anti-social behaviour, including bullying, underage drinking and vandalism.
Both books are part of the Barney & Echo series, developed by the Police Community Clubs of Great Britain. The series supports parents and teachers in addressing Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) at key stage 2. The resources provide an interactive and accessible way for children to engage with important social topics.
Mark Witherspoon, retail director at Specsavers Caerphilly, says: “Supporting community initiatives is at the heart of what we do here at Specsavers.
“Empowering young people with knowledge is essential, especially when it comes to such serious topics as staying safe online or in the local community.
“Both of these books offer an accessible but fun way to communicate key messages and help children navigate these challenges.”
The Police Community Clubs of Great Britain is a group of serving and retired police officers passionate about early intervention and youth projects. Their initiatives aim to prepare young people for personal, social and mental health challenges they may face as they move on to secondary school.
Ian Jackson, project leader at the Police Community Clubs of Great Britain, explains: “Many primary school children feel peer pressure when transitioning to secondary school.
“By offering flexible ways to address emotional changes, like bullying or grooming, children are better equipped to make positive choices and avoid anti-social behaviour.
“Thanks to Specsavers Caerphilly, we can continue delivering this valuable programme to more schools across Wales.”
Mr Lee Thomas, the Head Teacher at Twyn School said: “Protecting children’s mental wellbeing plays a big part in our school. The Bad Apples Project complements and supports the many other activities that we run.”
For more information about the Police Community Clubs of Great Britain, click here.
To find out more information about Specsavers in Caerphilly, request an appointment or browse the online store, visit the Specsavers Caerphilly webpage.
Specsavers also provides a Home Visits service for customers unable to visit stores due to disability or illness.
