Hundreds of pupils take part in safety education events across Newark and Sherwood

Organised by Newark and Sherwood District Council in partnership with Nottinghamshire Police, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, British Transport Police and other local organisations, the events were held over two weeks at Sconce and Devon Park and Vicar Water Country Park.

The initiative brought together a wide range of partners to deliver practical sessions on topics such as fire and water safety, first aid, environmental awareness, and wildlife crime. More than 900 pupils attended, with each day offering a new group of children the chance to learn through hands-on activities and real-life scenarios.

Throughout the two-week programme, pupils were immersed in a dynamic learning environment shaped by the expertise of numerous local partners. As children navigated mock scenarios and hands-on challenges, they encountered the vital work of Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, who guided them through identifying hidden fire hazards in everyday settings, while their water safety team demonstrated life-saving rescue techniques. You can watch a video on the importance of water safety on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/100064553507868/videos/1251910116503214. British Transport Police brought railway safety to life, helping pupils understand the importance of vigilance near train tracks.

Meanwhile, Nottinghamshire Police engaged students in thought-provoking discussions on both general crime prevention and the protection of local wildlife. The experience was further enriched by Newark Community First Aid, whose volunteers taught essential first aid skills, and by Newark and Sherwood District Council’s Environmental Health team, who raised awareness about food safety in fun and accessible ways.

The District Council’s Park Rangers also played a key role, encouraging children to connect with and care for their local green spaces. In addition, the Park Rangers focused on educating young people about local habitats and the importance of protecting them. They highlighted the serious impacts that fires can have on wildlife and natural environments, emphasizing the need for vigilance and responsible behaviour to preserve these vital ecosystems.

Together, these contributions created a vibrant, memorable experience that empowered young people with the knowledge and confidence to stay safe and make responsible choices.

Councillor Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said:

“These events were a brilliant example of how we can work together with our partners to deliver something truly meaningful for our young people. By making safety education interactive and engaging, we help children build confidence and awareness that will stay with them for life.

“I’m incredibly proud of the dedication and creativity shown by everyone involved in delivering these sessions — from our District Council teams to our partners in the emergency services and community organisations. Their commitment to making these events both educational and enjoyable is what made them so impactful. It’s inspiring to see the difference we can make when we come together with a shared goal of keeping our communities safe and informed.”

Nottinghamshire’s Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Angela Kandola, who attended the safety event, said: “This event shows the importance of education and providing a strong learning environment when it comes to improving awareness and feelings of safety in Nottinghamshire.

“Helping young people understand the risks of different environments, including when they are in and around water, means we are already one step ahead.

“Education is one of the most effective tools we have at our disposal, and if each person attending the event takes one thing away with them that can help them in their daily lives, then the events can be considered a huge success.”

You can find out more about the day by watching the following short video: https://youtube.com/shorts/PmKRtxMLp44