Education Minister Carol Steere discusses the Primary Schools’ Congress report with Vauvert pupils, left to right, Caius Bearder, 8, Laura McBoyle, 11, Josie Torode, 10, Stephanie Lamb, 8, and George Headington, 11. (Picture by Peter Frankland, 0606183)
ISSUES affecting island youngsters have been published in a report to help future decision-making.
In May, the Education and Health and Social Services departments organised the island’s first Primary Schools’ Congress. More than 150 pupils from schools across the island attended the Specsavers- sponsored event and met deputies to discuss solutions to Guernsey’s problems.
Yesterday, Vauvert pupils who took part in the exercise presented Education minister Carol Steere with the report of the congress. ‘I was very impressed with the way that the pupils were well prepared,’ said Deputy Steere.
‘They obviously had thought long and hard and had lots of discussions with their school. They showed a great deal of insight. The report is being sent to various departments. It isn’t just an exercise in talking,’ she said.
‘It’s good for them to know they are being listened to and it’s good to keep young people interested.’
Caius Bearder, 8, was one of the Vauvert pupils who attended the forum.
‘I think it was great,’ said the Year 4 pupil.
‘We got to put across our ideas instead of just thinking about them. It’s very important that we have to think about the environment and pollution and get that sorted out.’
Laura McBoyle, 11, also attended the congress.
‘We got to say what we wanted.
‘Normally we have to sit back and watch. This is our future and our island and we have to take care of it.
‘The politicians were really nice and if you got a bit nervous they were really assuring.’
Alun Williams, head of lifelong learning at Education, said that alcohol was a big issue for the children.
The pupils had suggested that drink prices should be raised, that bars keep track of the amount consumed by customers and that bottles should be made smaller.
‘Young people have got a right to be heard,’ said Mr Williams.
‘They are good at articulating their views and have a different perspective. This was a really good learning experience. I think they did a great job.’
n The topics discussed yesterday included alcohol, bullying, crime, 11-plus, healthy eating, smoking, and the environment.
Article posted on 15th July, 2008 - 2.29pm
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