The Byron Steering Group were preparing for the re-accreditation meeting being held by UNICEF on 20 June. This was to assess how well the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is known.
Jane is a member of the Steering Group as a Soroptimist and Community representative. The pupils were asked about what they understood about rights. One pupil was cuddling Rocky, the school mascot as she responded with passion and enthusiasm about rights.
They knew about articles such as the right to an education, to rest and play, the rights of refugees and to not be kidnapped.
They spoke about:-
- Children being forced to do dangerous work.
- Girls being treated differently to boys and not allowed to go to school.
- The lack of access to clean water and the impact of not having a toilet.
The assessor explored how the children are empowered to exercise their rights and promote the rights of others locally and globally. She heard how:-
- The children had suggested the school become plastic free
- Have eco-warriors to do regular litter picks.
- Children have actively participated in fundraising for Mary’s Meals, Water Aid and toilet twinning.
The children explained how doing this helps other children access their rights. It was satisfying how those activities Soroptimists have actively supported throughout the year have played a significant part in evidencing this.
Teacher and parent representatives joined the meeting. One teacher had one of the folders ‘Rocky’s Rights Holder’. It had examples the children had done as part of their homework when taking Rocky home.
Both parents felt well-informed about rights. Rocky is sent home with each child with information on children’s right and this educates the parents.
The Good News is Byron achieved their Silver level award.
