A social skills programme is proving successful at Elliot Primary School, according to national security minister Wayne Caines.

Fourteen boys have been participating in the Targeted Primary Prevention Programme, which aims to build self confidence, relationship skills, teamwork and resilience.

Mr Caines visited the school and said the boys explained their lessons have made them feel safer and given them the freedom to share their triumphs, challenges and fears.

Mr Caines said: “The boys are fully engaged and I understand, as a result, the school has reported decreased discipline referrals, and increased class participation.”

The programme is being delivered by Darren Woods, the youth outreach prevention manager with the Ministry of National Security, Living Legends Community Organisation founder Ian Coke and Elliot Primary School educational therapist Don Vickers.

Mr Caines said: “On all accounts, the boys are doing well and I recognise Darren, Ian and Don for the success of this programme thus far.”

The programme is intended to be expanded to other primary schools.

• For a Ministerial Statement on the programme, delivered in the House of Assembly by Wayne Caines, click on the PDF under “Related Media”