Self-defence classes launch thanks to tutor group’s passionate presentation

A tutor group project on community impact has resulted in City of Portsmouth College students learning all about self-defence from a local organisation.

More than 40 tutor groups across the College were challenged to come up with a solution that responded to a real, community issue. All the ideas were shortlisted before the winner was decided by an independent judging panel from the Portsmouth community.

The Year 2 tutor group led by Jennifa Rahman won out, after deciding they wanted to address the rising statistics of violence against women in the local area. They came up with the proposal that the College needed to equip girls – and boys – with the skills and knowledge on how to defend themselves.

Judges ruled the project as the winner after stating that they had wished something like this had been available when they were at college, and that it was important in today’s society.

The girls’ session took place recently, with a visit from ACT Self Defence staff, who presented practical information, such as “Ask for Angela” and performed practical demonstrations. A boys’ class will take place in the new academic year.

Other projects shortlisted included recyclable bricks using drinks bottles, donation points to help the homeless, a Baffins Summer Fair and Free Fruit Fridays on campus.

Jennifa said: “I am so proud of the dedication, passion and drive my students have demonstrated and the confidence with which they led the group. In particular, I was impressed with their clear communication when presenting their pitch.”