Thousands of Year 6 kids in Swindon and Wiltshire get vital life lessons in Junior Good Citizen scheme
Over 3,000 Year 6 students took part in this year’s Junior Good Citizen (JGC) programme, organised by the Wiltshire Police Youth and Early Intervention Team. The two-week event ran at the Wiltshire Scout Centre in Potterne and the Punjabi Centre in Gorse Hill, Swindon, giving kids the skills they need before starting secondary school.
Life Skills That Matter
Running for nearly 40 years, the JGC scheme evolves each year to tackle real issues. This time, workshops covered:
- Road safety
- Hate crime awareness
- Internet safety
- Risks of drugs and alcohol
- The consequences of criminal behaviour
Partnering with Wiltshire Council, Swindon Borough Council, HCRG Care Group, and local charities, the programme helps children build confidence and understand how their choices affect others.
Hard-Hitting Truths From Police
“We told pupils about the harsh realities of life behind bars and how a criminal record can wreck their futures,” said Jon Akehurst from Wiltshire Police. “As they gain independence, it’s vital they know how to stay safe online and in their communities.”
Neighbourhood Policing Teams put faces to the badges, letting kids meet officers and build trust with law enforcement.
Community Praise Rolls In
Teachers and schools love the programme’s real-world impact. One local teacher said, “This project is a brilliant example of community teamwork. It builds confidence, responsibility, and empathy in our youngsters.”
Shaping Tomorrow’s Responsible Citizens
With many schools signing up year after year, the JGC scheme clearly leaves a lasting mark. It’s more than safety—it’s about empowering young people to make smart, respectful choices.
Wiltshire Police hope the valuable lessons stick with students for life, creating safer, stronger communities across the region.
