Over 100 students from schools across the district attended a student speaks event at Airedale High School on 3rd December 2008. The event focusing on the Environment, Community and Safety included performances from Drama Students at Airedale High School called ASBO along with a lively performance by Momentum Dance. The event was compered by the Writer and TV Presenter Ian Clayton with shadow comperes from the student working group assisting Ian in his role. The event was organised by School Council representatives from Airedale High.

Martin Speak, the Councils Environment Education Officer, led a lively and interactive workshop around Anti Social Behaviour with discussions influencing the work of the Environmental Enforcement Teams. Chief Inspector Steve Thomas from West Yorkshire Police led a workshop to provide an opportunity for students across the district to be used by the Police when working with local communities particularly their style of working with young people.

Students were also delighted to welcome Dean Widders, Castleford Rugby League's new signing from Australia who undertook the role of Big Brother in a Big Brother Style diary room. Dean has worked with young people in Australia and was able to draw comparisons with the things that young people had identified and the work that he had done back in Oz.

All the information from the workshops is being evaluated by the student working group and will be available on this site in the New Year. If you would like further information in relation to the event contact the Neighbourhoods Team (Engagement) lward@wakefield.gov.uk or alternatively telephone 01924 305347. If you would like your school to be considered as one of the hosts of next years event please contact the team to express your interest.