Say Goodbye to School Gangs

Surviving the monotony of a school day can be bad enough, but when you have to worry about school gangs as well it's enough to make any student want to stay at home and under the covers! Unfortunately, gang culture can be found in many British schools, and it brings with it negative, and dangerous, side effects. The presence of weapons at or near school, the appearance of graffiti on buildings and lockers, and pressure to blow off school work and exams all follow where the gangs lead. None of these things are conducive to a good education, but for school gangs that's exactly the point - school is for being popular and having fun, not learning anything or preparing for the future. Saying goodbye to school gangs and keep your prospects intact with these handy hints.

Know Your Own Mind

Often it is those with low self-esteem and a poor self image who fall prey to school gangs. These students don't know their own mind or have a clear picture of what they would like to do in the future, so it is easy to be influenced by those who don't want to do any work today. Teenagers who understand the importance of working hard at school and performing well on their exams as a means of achieving success are much more likely to stick to their own plans.

Keep Yourself Busy

School gangs often hang around at or near schools with no real reason. Students who have nothing scheduled can easily be sucked into these groups, but if you are busy, busy, busy and always on the move there will be less chance that you'll have the time to stay and "play". Consider booking:

• Art classes.
• Play/choir/orchestra practice.
• Private music lessons.
• After school volunteering.
• Sports matches and practices.
• Babysitting appointments.
• Doctors or dentists visits.
• Activities with friends and family.

Choose Your Friends Wisely

With a core group of like-minded friends, it is much easier to stay away from school gangs because you simply don't need them. Remember that gangs are a source of power for members, but they can also be a source of intimidation. Steer clear of school gangs, including:

• Befriending any member of a gang.
• Dating or otherwise seeing any member of a gang.
• Being seen with a member of a rival gang.
• Gossiping about school gangs.

Work Hard and Have Fun

No one likes a teacher's pet, but school gangs in particular hate them. Work hard and have fun at school, but don't provoke anyone with extreme goody-two-shoes behaviour. Remember:

• Be polite to everyone.
• Don't make anyone feel stupid for not understanding a question.
• Don't act superior due to good grades.
• Offer help to those in need.
• Don't brag about your grades or exam scores.
• Don't try to take over group projects.
• Listen to and respect everyone's ideas and opinions.

School gangs can be a nightmare if you must deal with them constantly. Stay away from gang hangouts and gang members, and don't engage in any gang related activities. Do your best, work hard and have fun. Good luck!