Student conference focuses on mental wellbeing

Mental wellbeing was top of the agenda when students at Cambridge Regional College staged a conference and series of workshops focusing on positive thinking.

The event, organised by students on a Foundation Learning Options course, included a thought-provoking film on mental health along with hands-on activities to encourage mental wellbeing.

The Options students also made their own film, talking to fellow students across the college about mental health, and featuring photographs by media student Joshua Tweddell in their presentation.

Around 100 students took part in the day, which included smoothie-making, healthy eating information, a graffiti wall for positive messages, a stress-busting colouring session and friendship bracelet workshops.

College governor Nichola Harrison, who attended the conference and joined in the activities, said it had been in inspirational day.

“It is very inspiring to be involved in such an imaginative conference on such an important subject. I thought the films were fantastic, and I would like the rest of the Governors to have a chance to see them,” she said.

The conference was funded by Active Citizens FE, a national network for citizenship, learner voice and social action, and attended by Helen Murray, one of its founders.

The Options programme, part of CRC’s Foundation Learning faculty, acts as a bridge between school and employment or further education, helping to develop communication and study skills and build confidence in students.