Wellbeing Festival 2025

The start of the summer term kicked off with the highly energetic and positive Wellbeing Fest, organised by the Sixth Form Wellbeing Pupil Leaders, Isla and Xan, with the encouragement of Head of Wellbeing, Melissa Clinton. Now in its second year, this popular event, organised ‘by pupils for pupils’ highlights the importance of talking about mental health, held at an important time of year, particularly as many of our pupils embark on their exams and we approach Mental Health Awareness Month.

Canford’s Head of Wellbeing, Melissa Clinton Wellbeing Fest said:

“Wellbeing Fest was another triumphant night in the Canford year. The momentum from last year excelled to another level, reflected by increased number of acts wanting to sign up to perform, a full house audience watching the event and the increase in volunteers willing to share their stories. It made me feel proud to see and feel the support for the event itself and the messaging that was shared. To see the pupil body come together and support acts from all years and to respect the video messages in the way they did, showed emotional intelligence and comradery within our community that is difficult to quantify. Wellbeing Pupil Leaders, Isla and Xan, worked together with the pupils and staff to deliver what has been described by many pupils as the best night in Canford’s history. Isla and Xan should be incredibly proud of themselves as should all who were involved, from Austin Redwood having the courage as a Shell (Year 9) pupil to command the stage with his solo opening efforts, through to the Upper Sixth Form band closing the show with even more confidence, flare and dynamism building on their performance from last year. The talent on display blew us all away and it was wonderful to see pupils pushing themselves out of their comfort zone for such a good cause. We describe the event as ‘for the pupils from the pupils’ and this gives authenticity to the occasion, it also reflects how much the student body value the focus and guidance on mental health and wellbeing matters being talked about and celebrated. The passion to support each other and continue this event is visible for all to see and Wellbeing Fest gives a wonderful platform for this. I have had new pupils asking to sign up for next year already.”

Wellbeing Pupil Leaders, Isla and Xan shared their thoughts on the event:

Xan said “Last year Pupil Leaders Clemmie and Ivor introduced the Wellbeing Concert, and it was a massive hit, I knew from the start Isla and I had big shoes to fill. The night was a huge success with a big turn out from the Canford community. It was a mixture of unbelievable acts from performers from all different year groups, as well as being filled with powerful messages from both staff and pupils alike, which recognised the importance of mental health. The cooperation from the Layard theatre staff combined with all the acts was incredible and we would not have been able do it without Kevin and his technical team. Furthermore, we would not have been able to do without Isla’s excellent organisational skills as well as Mrs Clinton’s passion for it. I really enjoyed being involved in the planning and the organising of the concert. I think that awareness around mental health has come so far at Canford and with that being expressed through a plethora of fantastic acts really drove a powerful message and I hope that this tradition carries on for many years to come.”

Isla said,

1. Why did you want to be involved in organising the Wellbeing concert? I wanted to showcase some amazing talent that we have at this school but also to raise awareness for mental health and speaking up. I want everyone to feel like they can talk to someone about what they are going through and that they are supported. 
2. What were the benefits for all pupils? My aim was for all pupils to feel included and like they could speak up. I also wanted the performers to feel proud of themselves and pride in sharing their talents. Ultimately, I hoped that the event would strengthen our school community and encourage more conversations around wellbeing. 
3. What was the reaction from the pupils? From what I saw and heard backstage and from the crowd, it went really well. There was a lot of excitement around the event, and I feel as though there was a very positive reaction to the night and our message that you are not alone in speaking out. 
4. How did you feel the night went? I was really pleased with how it went! Of course, there was some nerves and challenges along the way, but the turnout was great, the performances were amazing, and the message came across clearly. To me, the concert was meaningful and worthwhile, and I was proud of how everyone came together to make it happen and support our aim.

Pupils that attended the event were equally positive with their comments:

“Honestly it was the most fun, one of the most memorable nights we have ever had at Canford, one I will remember for all time. It felt such a great way to go out and end our story at Canford.”

“The concert was amazing, the atmosphere was incredible. I really think it shows how far Canford has come over the years in how seriously they take Mental health and wellbeing. The success of the WB Fest shows how important it is to all of us and it was great to see so many people respect the shared stories from pupils and support all the acts”

“This is what the Canford community is all about, people coming together to celebrate and support each other. From celebrating people’s talents performing, to supporting the courage of those sharing stories and speaking about mental health and wellbeing topics it felt an incredibly moving powerful night.”

“Canford at its best, the most fun night with so much joy but good to have the humble reminder of struggles people can be going through”

Congratulations to everyone involved in organising this event, we look forward to Wellbeing Festival 2026!

Wellbeing Fest - Watch the video clip