REWARDING positive behaviour and promoting safety are some of the many ways local police are supporting the Bulahdelah Central School community.

A Police Award is presented by the officers at school assemblies each fortnight, which was introduced by Senior Constable Ashley Ray.

Assistant Principal, Mrs Carol Wills, said the PBL (Positive Behaviour for Learning) Police Award is tied to the school’s PRIDE values of Participation, Respect, Innovation, Determination and Excellence.

“It is awarded to students who demonstrate these values, not only at school but also in the community,” she said.

The award recipients are democratically chosen by staff, with Year 6 student Oliver Gibbs selected for last week’s accolade.

“Oliver has been an ongoing mentor for younger students, through supporting them in developing positive friendship skills in the playground,” Mrs Wills said.

“He is always there encouraging them to do the right thing.”

Sn Constable Dave Feeney also joined Mrs Wills and an enthusiastic group of students, staff and parents who braved the wet weather for last week’s National Walk Safely to School Day.

The annual event raises an awareness of road safety and promotes the health benefits of regular exercise.

Sn Constable Feeney said the police enjoy being involved in these events.

“From a policing standpoint of such a friendly small town, we all strongly believe it is important to be present, visible and approachable within the local schools,” he said.

“We would much prefer to have a good relationship and rapport with the students from a young age, as well as with their families and teachers.”

By developing positive bonds, Sn Constable Feeney hopes students will feel safe enough to ask questions if they are scared or worried about police related issues.

Through their active involvement in the school, Sn Constable Feeney said they are also able to promote good, law abiding and safe life choices.

“We hope this will prevent kids going down the wrong path and doing things they would regret later in life,” he said.

Mrs Wills told News Of The Area, the school welcomes the involvement of local police, who are “very positive role models” for the students.

 

By Daniel SAHYOUN