Thousands of Year 6 students across Swindon and Wiltshire have taken part in this year’s Junior Good Citizen (JGC) scheme — a multi-agency initiative aimed at teaching children vital life skills as they prepare to transition into secondary school.
Organised by the Wiltshire Police Youth and Early Intervention Team, the programme involved over 3,000 students during two weeks of engaging, practical sessions at the Wiltshire Scout Centre in Potterne and the Punjabi Centre in Gorse Hill, Swindon.
Empowering the Next Generation
The Junior Good Citizen programme has been running for nearly 40 years and continues to evolve. Its 2025 edition delivered interactive workshops on:
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Road safety
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Hate crime awareness
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Internet safety
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Drugs and alcohol risks
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Consequences of criminal behaviour
The sessions, led in partnership with Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council, HCRG Care Group, and local charities, are designed to help students build confidence, make informed choices, and understand how their actions affect others.
A Glimpse Inside Real-Life Risks
“We spoke to pupils about the harsh realities of life behind bars and how a criminal record can impact their future,” said Jon Akehurst from Wiltshire Police. “As they become more independent, it’s essential they know how to stay safe — both online and in their communities.”
Neighbourhood Policing Teams played a crucial role, offering students direct interaction with local officers and enhancing trust in law enforcement.
Community-Driven Success
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Schools and teachers praised the programme for its real-world relevance and the cooperative spirit among agencies.
A local teacher commented: “This project is a fantastic example of community engagement. It builds confidence, promotes responsibility, and encourages empathy in our young people.”
Building Responsible Citizens
With many schools returning to JGC year after year, the programme has proven its long-lasting impact. It’s not just about safety — it’s about empowering future citizens to make wise, respectful decisions.
Wiltshire Police hope that the lessons learned through Junior Good Citizen will stay with students for life, fostering safer communities and stronger values for years to come.
