Year 7 Take Part in Knife Crime Awareness Day

Last week, on Thursday 4 December, Year 7 students (X side only – Y side will have their day soon) took part in a series of talks and workshops during periods 1–5, led by different organisations to raise awareness of knife crime and its consequences.

As a student in Blenheim, our day began with a talk from the police about what would happen if someone were involved in an offence relating to illegal weapons. We were shown arrest statistics from recent years, including examples where offenders were found carrying illegal items through simple stop-and-search procedures. We also watched a staged video that showed how an innocent man lost his life as a result of a stabbing.

The key message from this session was that anyone can become involved in an offence, whether by supplying a weapon, planning an attack, encouraging someone else, or even having knowledge of what might happen. We were reminded that if we know someone who is planning to carry or use a weapon — even if they believe it is for protection — we should tell a trusted adult to help keep people safe.

Each form followed a slightly different timetable, allowing for smooth transitions between workshops and helping to keep groups comfortable, engaged, and smaller in number.

Our next workshop was led by a volunteer from the charity Spurgeons, who spoke to us about choices and how our actions can affect our futures. We learned about young offenders, what happens to them, and the counselling and support provided both to them and their families. The main message was that students are strong, capable of making their own choices, and should not feel pressured or influenced by others in negative situations.

After morning break, we attended further talks. For Blenheim, this included a workshop from the London Ambulance Service, which was challenging due to the graphic images, real emergency calls, and statistics shared. Although difficult, it felt important to learn what to do in a serious situation. We were taught key steps to help someone who has been injured:

1. Call 999
2. Get help from others while staying on the line
3. Apply pressure to the wound using clothing Most importantly, never remove a weapon left in the body, as it could be preventing further injury.

Later, we met with Miss Kitteringham in the Main Hall to discuss personal safety, including when it is appropriate to be out independently and what to do if you feel unsafe. Practical advice included staying near trusted adults, giving up belongings if approached, and prioritising safety over possessions.

After lunch, we returned to the hall for a final talk led by a volunteer from the charity HYPE, focusing on drugs and their effects on the body and brain. We also learned how to recognise signs of addiction and how HYPE supports young people aged 10–25 who are affected by substance misuse.

Overall, the day was important but emotionally draining, with a lot to take in. However, having gained knowledge that could one day help save a life or protect someone’s future, it felt worthwhile.

Thank you to Miss Kitteringham for organising and planning such an impactful day.

Report written by Freddie O, 7BL.