A school welcomed a special visitor into its classrooms to give an educational and vital talk to pupils.

Police officer James Smith met with more than 360 pupils of all ages, from reception to Year 6, when he spent the day at Gaywood Primary.

“PC Smith led sessions with Years 3 and 4 on mobile phone and online safety, Years 5 and 6 on county lines, and Years 1 and 2 on ‘how the police help us’,” said Neil Mindham, executive head teacher at the school.

Formerly a safer schools officer within the safer schools partnership, PC Smith is now one of two neighbourhood police officers working to engage, educate, and support children and young people across Gaywood, Faistead, and Reffley.

Mr Mindham added: “The children thoroughly enjoyed the interactive nature of the sessions – especially the question-and-answer opportunities where they could ask PC Smith questions directly about his job and uniform.

“The younger children in Years 1 and 2 particularly liked learning how the police help us and seeing the officer in uniform. The older students in Years 5 and 6 found the information on county lines and online safety to be very relevant and engaging, appreciating the examples and advice PC Smith shared.

“Events like this are extremely important, as they establish positive relationships and trust between children and the police at an early age.

“They benefit children by providing vital, age-appropriate safety education on topics like online risks and county lines, delivered by an expert.

“Crucially, meeting an officer like PC Smith in a familiar, school setting helps demystify the police role, making officers approachable, and reinforcing that they are trusted figures children can turn to for help.”