PRIMARY school children have 'graduated' after taking the first steps towards preventing future terrorist incidents.

The Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Peace Foundation, based in Great Sankey, has helped 150 school pupils complete Small Steps for Peace, a course helping them to understand the impact of conflict and problem solving.

Children aged nine and 10 from Liverpool and Rochdale were presented with caps and gowns to commemorate their achievement.

The Peace Foundation offers emotional and practical support to individuals who have been directly affected by terrorism, and the charity’s Survivors Assistance Network has provided support to more than 750 individuals affected by the 2017 Manchester Arena attack.

It was founded in memory of Tim Parry and Johnathan Ball, who were tragically killed in the IRA’s bombing of Warrington in March 1993.

Colin Parry OBE, chair of the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Peace Foundation said: "At Tim’s funeral I said that if my son becomes a symbol for peace and gives everyone a new sense of hope after so much tragedy, then that will be Tim’s unique achievement.

"Peace education with young people, helping them understand the causes and consequences of violent conflict, is a vital part of our work and we’re delighted to be able to recognise the amazing achievements of so many young people from Liverpool and Rochdale."

Ciara Kinsella, project lead for Small Steps for Peace said: "Small Steps for Peace has had such a positive response from pupils and teachers in Merseyside and Greater Manchester, and we’re all incredibly proud of the 150 young people who have completed the course.

"Our teachers pack includes a book, games and interactive exercises which are simple to run and understand and help young people explain and address their feelings with confidence.

"Small Steps for Peace gives children the tools to resolve problems without resorting to violence, which is essential as they approach their teenage years and adulthood."

If schools are interested in the Small Steps for Peace course, email commissions@peace-foundation.org.uk.