The Manchester Bee monument has completed its tour of schools in Walsall, as part of an anti-violence campaign with West Midlands Police.
The 27ft bee, made from seized guns and knives, visited 25 schools in the borough during June and July, encouraging young people to talk about the dangers and consequences of carrying a knife.
The bee brought entire school communities together to reflect on its symbolism. Schools hosted assemblies, talks, and creative activities so children and young people could spend time discussing the bee and its message.
One of the schools the bee visited was Holy Trinity Primary School in Clayhanger. Becky Graham, Headteacher said, “We had the privilege of hosting the Manchester Bee at Holy Trinity.
“The bee's tour, aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of knife crime and violence, provided a valuable learning experience for our students.
“The visit reinforced our commitment to educating children on the importance of Speaking Out to Stay Safe and making the right choices to protect themselves and our community. Our students were deeply engaged and took away essential lessons about safety and responsibility.
“We are grateful for this opportunity to enhance our children's understanding and commitment to creating a safer environment for all.”
Councillor Garry Perry, Leader of Walsall Council said, “The bee’s tour in Walsall has been a great talking point for children of all ages, so they can learn about the risks and dangers of knives and serious violent crimes.
“From seeing the bee myself, it evokes all sorts of emotions to see the weapons up close, remembering that they were all seized from the streets.
“The bee’s visit will no doubt have a lasting impact upon our young people, and if the bee’s presence makes even just one young person think differently about carrying a knife, then I believe it will have done its job.”
Chief Superintendent Phil Dolby, commander at Walsall LPA, said, “We received some excellent feedback from schools who received a visit from the Manchester Bee during its tour of Walsall.
“We need children talking about knife crime and the Manchester Bee gave schools the opportunity to start the conversation. Now we need to continue the conversations about #LifeorKnife."
The bee’s visit builds upon the legacy of the successful Knife Angel visit to Walsall in December last year.
To learn more about our #LifeorKnife campaign go to: https://www.westmidlands.police.uk/police-forces/west-midlands-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/lifeorknife/
To find out more about the Manchester Bee go to: https://www.britishironworkcentre.co.uk/projects_item/gmp-anti-violence-bee-monument/
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