CALLINGTON Community College organised a successful Tolerance and Respect Day recently for their Year 11 students.

It was a chance to focus on the wider curriculum and complemented the work they are currently doing in their PSHEE (Personal, Social and Health Education) and Citizenship lessons away from the pressures of their examination schedule.

The day provided an opportunity to discuss and debate issues relating to tolerance and respect and reflect on their own attitudes and beliefs. Students also learned key information about the law in relation to this topic.

There were eight external presenters invited to deliver on the day. Sister Iqbal from the Faith Forum presented a Muslim perspective; Simon Hill from Yay Cornwall delivered a workshop LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender); PC Thompson and PC Gameson explored diversity and social media,

Steven Rowell examined the Prevent agenda and Catherine Hayes from CLEAR presented on healthy relationships. Jennie Kramer, a previous head of PSHEE and Citizenship, was welcomed back to the college and held a workshop on tolerance in society.

Students' feedback on the experience included comments such as 'my views have been widened', 'the activities were refreshing and fun' and 'this workshop reminded me how wonderful people are and how important it is to know and understand people'. One student also said: 'I learned that Islam is a religion of peace'.

The presenters praised the Year 11 students for their positive responses to the workshops and their excellent behaviour.

This focus on tolerance and respect will be continued through the PSHEE and Citizenship classes and the college's right's respecting work.

The college has already achieved the Level 1 award for being a rights' respecting college and staff and students are working hard towards achieving Level 2.