Zak

We offer three simulations looking at radicalisation, extremism and hate crime. There are two simulations to accompany our ‘Signs of Radicalisation’ training – Young Zak the Gamer and Zak at University. We also offer a third simulation, Maryam and Joe: Behind Closed Doors.

Our training sessions have been designed to raise awareness of online grooming and radicalisation and the tools will be available for you to use with young people and vulnerable adults. 

Zak at University is a social media style simulation, enabling young people to protect themselves and their peers against online grooming and radicalisation. Those taking part in the simulation, follow as Zak posts and messages on his timeline, learning to spot early signs of grooming. Detailed answers and links to research in the comprehensive training pack provide background, insight and ongoing support. Zak at University can be used with young people in groups or one-to-one sessions. 

Learning outcomes

Zak at University has been designed to fulfil Ofsted requirements and ensures that users gain a full understanding of the risks posed by adults or learners who use technology, including the internet, to bully, groom, radicalise or abuse children or learners (2015).

By participating in the simulation you will gain the skills to:

• identify children at risk of being drawn into terrorism
• challenge extremist ideas knowledgeably and with confidence
• refer children and young people for further help
• increase the awareness of young people around the process of radicalisation of individuals, particularly those who are involved in the transition from home to University
• promote discussion among young people, enabling them to identify and discuss factors/indicators of radicalisation in their peers and to reflect on their own and others’ behaviour
• raise awareness of the reporting process for young people’s concerns on radicalisation and internet safety
• identify some of the procedures in place to support individuals in a pre-criminal space.

To find out more about the development of Zak, please visit our research website.

Young Zak the Gamer is a Year 7 student in his first term at secondary school. Using a series of vlogs on the ‘Wetube’ channel we see how, simply by talking online via a public vlog, young Zak compromises his safety by over sharing private information. We see how he starts to be groomed for radicalisation via online gaming. Learners are able to engage with the storyline and identify where online grooming may be taking place.

Young Zak the Gamer aims to develop young people’s critical thinking and encourages them to stay safe online. This simulation can be used individually, in groups, or as part of a class or assembly lesson. There are questions for each vlog to generate discussion around worksheets to gather evidence of teaching and learning. 

Learning outcomes

Young Zak the Gamer increases young people’s awareness of grooming for radicalisation. Specifically it aims to:

• reinforce messages of good online safety
• develop critical thinking in young people, equipping them with tools to keep themselves safe
• generate discussion around radicalisation, grooming and British values
• generate understanding of how to raise concerns.