Throughout their time at PGS, pupils are given opportunities to develop as leaders. Coaching our young people to be confident leaders is something that is firmly integrated into almost every aspect of school life
Understanding their place in the world and experiencing the true joy of helping others is a fundamental part of their education. Through our expansive network and many strategic partners, our pupils can facilitate a whole range of fulfilling projects and initiatives in our local community. Josie, in Year 12, is a shining example of this commitment and the energy that our pupils have to make an impact on the world around them.
Last year Josie identified a need for greater awareness around the impact of peer-on-peer sexual harassment. She felt that pupils were informed of the issue but potentially did not have the tools or the knowledge to identify the ‘grey areas’ around the subject and how they may themselves behave in ways that cause their peers to be uncomfortable. It’s a project that she plans to roll out to other secondary schools in Portsmouth after trialling it at PGS. “I want to create a campaign that doesn’t only support those perceived as victims, but also helps people realise how what they are doing and saying may actually be a problem too,” said Josie. “The experience of young people shouldn’t be disregarded, and behaviour shouldn’t be written off as just banter.”
Working with support from Unloc, Josie started to develop her ideas and was supported by a £250 changemaker grant from Verizon. With this Josie designed leaflets and posters, getting them printed to be able to distribute. “I was keen for what I produced to be for students and created by students so that the language and advice worked for them. Unloc and staff at PGS helped through offering advice and Unloc helped with contacts for me to check the information I was supplying was correct,” continued Josie.
In recognition of her work, Unloc nominated Josie for their award at the Portsmouth Youth Awards this year, which she took home on the night.
“Working on this campaign has really grown my confidence,” said Josie. “I’ve had to pitch work that means a lot to me, to other people and be able to listen objectively to their feedback.”
Next steps for Josie are to present her work to Year 10 pupils during their pastoral lessons, after which she will gather feedback to further refine the project delivery. “I am really looking forward to rolling out my project to other secondary schools in Portsmouth,” concludes Josie. “I believe that it’s support that all young people need and in a way that’s really relevant to them. I passionate about making it work and making a difference.”
