Theatre group shows schools – arson is not cool!
A new scheme which, aims to teach young people about the consequences of arson, is taking place in secondary schools in Nuneaton, Bedworth and Rugby this week.
The ‘Arson About’ initiative is being run by Warwickshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service as part of their drive to reduce small fires across the county. During the week, pupils from year eight, (aged 13 – 14), will see a dramatic reconstruction of a young person setting light to their school and the horrific consequences that follow. They will then take part in interactive workshops about peer pressure and how to say no when you think something isn’t right.
Stop Watch Theatre Company is delivering the play and interactive workshops in conjunction with advice given by firefighters on the dangers and consequences of arson.
There have been 21 fires in schools between 1/01/2006 and 31/05/2008, the most memorable being Avon Valley in Rugby.
Arson Reduction Manager, Ian Tonner said:
“Arson is a very serious issue which can affect whole communities. In the case of Avon Valley, not only was an entire school building lost, which disrupted the lives of those, attending the school, but the children also lost coursework and valuable teaching equipment.
“We are hoping that both the play and the workshop will have a strong impact and will show how one single act can affect a whole community, sometimes with disastrous consequences.”
Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, Councillor Richard Hobbs said:
“Nationally around 20 schools are damaged or destroyed in an arson attack every week in England and Wales and around 100,000 pupils are seriously affected by the consequent disruption. This is a great opportunity for us to target young people, by telling them about the effects of arson and also how it can effect the lives of young people like themselves.”