The College’s creative media learners had the chance to work with officers from the Hampshire force, who briefed them about the issue of knife crime and its potential impact on them and their peers. The learners then used their digital knowledge to design and create media products, such as posters and animations, to help to spread the anti knife crime message.

The Digital Industries department at Eastleigh College run a variety of courses that prepare learners for a career in the digital industries. This real-life project for the creative media students has been built into their assessment, as it allowed them to work on a current and real problem just like they would in industry.

Eastleigh District Commander, Chief Inspector Marcus Cator, said, “We are really pleased to be working in partnership with Eastleigh College, and their learners, to tackle this important issue. This forms part of our ongoing work in the community focusing on tackling and disrupting the importation and supply of knives, targeting those who carry and use knives and preventing people from engaging in knife crime.

“We hope that this student-led project has given the students some perspective on the dangers, and consequences of knife crime and they are now in a better position to share key messages and learnings with their peers.”

The course tutor, Sarah Ferrand said, “Not only have the learners worked on an industry led project, but they have also learnt about the local issues surrounding knife crime in our area which has been very enlightening to everyone involved. The Digital Industries team have really enjoyed working with Hampshire Constabulary and we look forward to working with them again on future campaigns.”

One of the learners who took part in the project, Alex Louch, said, "This was an amazing experience, to be able to work with a client to make a product that suited their needs whilst also getting to learn about a really interesting topic that I would never have looked at otherwise.”

If any person is concerned about someone carrying a knife, or is worried someone is going to be hurt and there is an immediate threat - they should call 999.

If learners don’t feel like they can talk to the police, parents or teachers, then they should contact an organisation such as Fearless.org which offers anonymous online reporting and information on knife crime for young people.

Other courses available from the Digital Industries department include -

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production and Technology

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Computer Science

Level 3 Extended Certificate in Esports

Level 2 Digital Futures

For more information please contact BeBetter@eastleigh.ac.uk.