This week, young people met with the Education Minister, Stephen Morgan MP, to discuss what thriving at school means to them. The young people shared their desire to see the government listen to children, and prioritise their wellbeing so that every child feels as though they belong at school.
I think the roundtable was important because we are the future generation. If the government listens to us, it can better our mental health and also make sure that we make decisions like them in the future so that the country becomes a better place for everyone.
Adib, 13
The roundtable bought together young people from across the National Children’s Bureau, including from Young NCB, Young Anti-Bullying Alliance, FLARE and from our Belonging Matters programme. They discussed what the government should be doing to ensure it can fulfil its mission to break down the barriers to opportunity for all children.
The young people spoke candidly about the challenges they have faced with accessing mental health support and the need for schools to be equipped to meet students' needs in a timely fashion.
Members from the Young Anti-Bullying Alliance spoke passionately about the need to raise awareness about bullying and the effect it has on children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing.
The young people and the Minister also considered school absence and the barriers that can prevent children from attending school. The young people emphasised the importance of creating inclusive school environments which support all children to feel like they belong.
It felt exhilarating to know that you are making an impact on how the country is run, I think having an impact and a voice is a privilege.
Tomas, 15
The roundtable helped me voice my concerns and I felt very heard by everyone at the table.
Samira, 15
The Minister discussed these issues openly with the young people, sharing his priorities for children and young people, and emphasising his determination to ensure that young people’s mental health is supported in school.
I appreciate the fact I had this opportunity, and you can tell the Minister really cared about his job. He wasn’t just there for the sake of being there, he really wanted to be there. We need more people like him in government.
Emaan, 16
Hearing first-hand about the barriers to opportunity children and young people face – especially when those issues impact their mental wellbeing and ability to attend school – is so important to ensure the work this government does is targeted and effective.
As we deliver our Plan for Change, we will make sure every young person has the support they need to achieve and thrive, including access to a mental health professional in every school.
Education Minister, Stephen Morgan
At NCB, we know the impact of meaningful engagement with children and young people through constructive and open dialogue. This kind of engagement is essential in developing policy solutions that work for children and young people. Therefore, it is vital that the government remains committed in its approach to engaging with children on policy matters that affect them.
This was so cool, I loved it and I want to come back!
Labiba, 15