Rugby star encourages children to speak up

Leeds Rhinos star Rob Burrow attended an NSPCC Schools Service Speak Out Stay Safe workshop at Seven Hills Primary School, in Morley, Leeds.

The two hour-long sessions, designed specifically for Key Stage 2 pupils and led by staff and volunteers from the charity, help children discuss and understand what to do when they are faced with worries and concerns.

Mr Burrow said: “Making sure our children know what to do if they’re worried and learning about the different signs of abuse is essential to keep them safe.

“As a father I’ve really enjoyed seeing the work that the NSPCC are doing in schools across Leeds encouraging children to Speak out and Stay safe.”

Pupils also raised money for the NSPCC by holding a De-Feet Day, where staff and pupils wore colourful footwear to raise money for the charity.

Teacher Gabrielle Naylor said: “We are committed to safeguarding pupils here at Seven Hills, we wanted to show our support to the NSPCC and make a gesture in return for their wonderful assemblies and workshops that have taken place.

“We planned our De-Feet Day so that children had the opportunity to learn further about ways to defeat things such as abuse, neglect, bullying and anxiety.”

Michelle Poucher, NSPCC schools service area co-ordinator, added: “We’re delighted to have welcomed Rob Burrow along to our workshops.

“We know that the best way for children to stay safe is to know who to speak to when they have a problem or a concern.

“It is so important that we make sure children know where to turn when they are at their most vulnerable, and our volunteers do incredible work reaching schools across Leeds, Bradford and Wakefield.”