As part of a collaborative project with Thames Valley Police, Newbury College media students have created a short video to help raise awareness of child sexual exploitation (CSE). The video will be used as an educational training DVD aimed at staff working in hotels, helping them to recognise the signs, deal with and report suspected CSE cases.
Following a series of training sessions with the West Berkshire neighbourhood policing teams, the Level 3 media students fully researched the subject and worked closely with the police on all aspects of the video's production. The video, entitled Penny's Story', was officially launched at an event at Newbury College on Thursday 29 June, with students, tutors, parents and police in attendance, and where Chief Inspector Lindsey Finch, Deputy Area Commander, presented students with a special commendation for their work.
Police officers and PCSOs have been working with partner agencies to educate our communities, including young children, to report any concerns about potential child sexual exploitation. By working on the project, the students have gained a valuable insight into the subject area, explains Inspector Warren Mckeown from Thames Valley Police. I have been impressed by the hard work and support of the students and their tutors, who have assisted us with other community CSE awareness events as part of the project. They should be very proud to have produced this DVD knowing it will help us raise awareness of this horrific crime.
Commenting on the work experience, tutorial programme leader, Sian Ellis, said: The students have worked really hard to produce a piece of work which is both impactful and informative. The end result is reflective of their commitment to the project and highlights their skills as young film makers. We'd like to thank the police for giving us the opportunity to work on this project ' we are proud to have contributed to the safeguarding and welfare of young people in the area.
The video was shot on location in Newbury and will be rolled out to hotels in West Berkshire.
Listen to student Ashleigh Cock's interview with Phil Kennedy on BBC Radio Berkshire's Drive Time Show. (1:20:00 to 1:26:00)