Students at Cockburn John Charles Academy (CJCA) experienced a powerful and thought-provoking day when the ‘Prison Me, No Way!’ program visited the school.
The initiative, designed to deter young people from crime and anti-social behavior, left a lasting impact on the students by highlighting the realities of prison life and the consequences of poor decision-making.
The event featured a mobile prison cell that gave students a stark, hands-on experience of what it feels like to be behind bars. The confined space, harsh lighting, and lack of comfort in the cell made a deep impression on many students, offering a vivid insight into the daily reality faced by inmates.
One of the most impactful moments of the day came from the candid conversations students had with ex-offenders who shared their stories of regret and redemption. These individuals spoke openly about the choices that led them to incarceration and the challenges they faced in rebuilding their lives afterward. Their heartfelt testimonies served as a powerful reminder of how quickly bad decisions can lead to life-altering consequences.
“It really made me think about how important it is to make the right choices in life,” said one Year 9 student. “Hearing from people who’ve been through it was eye-opening. You don’t realise how much even small decisions can spiral out of control.”
The program also explored topics such as peer pressure, the impact of criminal records on future opportunities, and strategies for avoiding risky situations. Interactive workshops encouraged students to reflect on their own values and decision-making processes, making the lessons both engaging and memorable.
The day was organised with the support of school staff, who were keen to give students a meaningful learning experience outside the classroom. Head of School, Mrs Roberts, expressed the school’s commitment to promoting positive behavior and decision-making among its students:
“At Cockburn John Charles Academy, we are always looking for ways to prepare our students for the challenges of the real world. ‘Prison Me, No Way!’ provided an invaluable opportunity for our young people to see the consequences of crime firsthand and understand the importance of making good choices. We hope this experience will resonate with them for years to come.”
The day ended with a reflective session, where students were encouraged to share their thoughts and lessons learned. Many left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of the value of staying on the right path.
This post is based on a press release issued by Cockburn John Charles Academy
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