Cole, Carmen, Noraiz and Zahraa were four of sixteen students from schools across the district who were sworn in as junior detectives, as they embarked on the programme designed to show them the dreadful impact of knife crime and learn how the police force investigates and solves knife crime offending. 

Over the course of the week, students worked closely with police officers on an exercise created around a 'serious knife related offence' in which they received inputs from police officers, NHS trauma surgeons, and lived experience speakers.  Students were tasked with investigating a fictional scenario, including a forensic examination of the crime scene, and learning how to conduct forensic testing in a laboratory. Students then conducted interviews with the victim and the suspect and built their case ahead of a visit to Bradford Crown Court, where it was heard before His Honour Judge Jonathan Rose.  

On the final day, students delivered a presentation showcasing their experience and learning to family and representatives from West Yorkshire Police, Bradford University and His Honour Judge Jonathan Rose.  A celebration event at Bradford University followed, in which the students were officially commended as 'anti-knife crime champions' and presented with certificates. 

Mrs Rudd, who organised the Academy's involvement, told us: "This had been a truly incredible week for the students involved. The inputs from West Yorkshire Police, the NHS, the University of Bradford, victims of knife crime and the Criminal Justice System gave students a first-hand experience of the far-reaching consequences which knife crime can and does have on individuals, communities and society."

She went on to say: "The student representatives actively engaged with every opportunity which came their way over the course of the week, doing themselves, the Academy and their communities proud."

We want to extend our thanks to all parties who were involved in making this week happen. Our four Year 8 knife crime ambassadors are now beginning to share their learning with their peers, raising awareness of knife crime and criminal exploitation.