School wins safety podcast competition

A school in Frome has won a Somerset Council podcast competition after pupils created safety messages aimed at helping young people support themselves and others.

Selwood Academy was named the winner from 40 schools across the county for its podcast entry.

The competition formed part of a project which saw students across Somerset learn about becoming Active Bystanders. An Active Bystander notices when something is wrong and safely steps in or gets help, helping to build confidence and awareness around personal safety, anti-social behaviour and looking out for others.

Workshops were delivered by Collaborate Digital, commissioned by Somerset Council, before students were tasked with writing and producing their own podcasts.

A shortlist of 10 entries was then opened to a public vote, with Selwood Academy coming out on top with 477 votes.

Headteacher Dan Jeffries said, “I am incredibly proud to see our pupils undertake such forthright acts of courageous advocacy. As a school community, our pupils constantly work to make the world a better place through concerted effort, kindness and always doing our best. The pupils involved have absolutely let their light shine.”

Lead Member for Communities, Environment and Climate Change at Somerset Council, Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, said, “It has been fantastic to see so many young people across Somerset getting involved in this project and thinking so carefully about how they can help keep themselves and others safe.

“Congratulations to Selwood Academy on their win and thank you to every pupil and school that took part for helping spread such an important message.”