On Thursday morning, around 115 Year 9 and 10 pupils received a talk from representatives of the police force. Cadets were also invited to attend. We had Joe, Brian and Andy (PCSOs) along with Stacey and Liam (Criminologists) visiting the academy. The pupils heard about how each came to be in the job role they are in which was great to hear just before Year 9 pupils attended Options Evening later that day.

Andy spoke about some time he spent as a Prison Officer at HMP Oakwood which the pupils found interesting. We had some excellent questions from pupils that Andy answered – most were interested about the day in the life of a Prison Officer and a prisoner.

Later on, the visitors made their way up to the Sixth Form block to speak to current Criminology students. We had some very in-depth discussions about how important it is to consider mental health when dealing with potential suspects as well as rehabilitation options that the Prison Service currently offers.

The representatives of the police force spoke very highly of our pupils and said they were pleasantly surprised by how much information about the Criminal Justice System our Criminologists knew.

The application process to become a Bloxwich Academy Prefect in 2020 is now open.

Applications are due by Friday 13th March 2020.

Have you got what it takes?

• Are you a leader?
• Are you patient with younger pupils?
• Can you listen to others?

What does the role entail?

• Working closely with Heads of House
• Supporting the Leadership Team
• Being involved in mentoring and supporting younger pupils
• Giving up your own time to support others
• Supporting Parent Evenings, younger form groups and Y6 New Intake Day

How do I apply?

• Write a letter of application (no more than one side of A4), to include: A personal history of your life at Bloxwich academy, including anyway you have contributed positively in school, your ideas on the role of a Prefect and the personal qualities you think Prefects need.

• Include the name of a teacher who will agree that they believe you are able to be responsible and trustworthy.  The teacher must be asked if they will be a referee for you and place their name in your letter.

• The letter should be placed in an envelope and handed into the House offices for the attention of your Head of House by 3pm Friday 13^th March  2020 and labelled with your name and form group.

What is in it for me?

• Increased self-confidence and self-esteem.
• Something of real worth to write about when you apply for College or University.
• 2 days of high-quality training.