Student Union President Leslie Bortey delivered an opening speech encouraging everyone to adopt a zero-tolerance to knife crime. Guest speakers include CHOZE, a local rapper and victim of knife crime whose performances inspire and motivate young people to make the right choices to reach their goals, Trident Police Gangs Unit delivered a presentation on statistics and consequences, Jessica Plummer, a mother whose son was murdered as a result of knife crime talked about the impact of her loss and Dami Alaran from Where are you going – talked about charities and community groups supporting young people to exit gang/knife crime and participate in positive activities. This was a thought-provoking and inspiring event to get learners thinking about how we can all work together to tackle the rising problem of knife crime and keep young people safe on the streets.

In the evaluation, 96% of learners said they had found the event useful, citing the testimonial from Jessica Plummer as the most impactful part of the Conference. Learners also said the event reinforced the choices that young people need to make and the opportunities open to them both at the college and in the wider community.

At the request of the Student Union and as a follow-up to the Conference local grime artist Choze returned to the college on Wednesday 7th March and performed live to over 170 learners in the Theatre. He delivered an electrifying performance, alongside rapping his own tracks against an amazing visual effects backdrop with a live violinist, guitarist and trumpet.

This was followed by a Q&A session where learners asked questions such as “what has been the biggest challenge in his life and how has he overcome it. His message to learners was simple but positive - make the right choices and change your life……….keep reaching for your goals and dreams!