Five Exeter School pupils joined representatives from around 18 schools across Devon for a Youth Day organised by Devon Youth Council. Together, they explored the barriers facing young people in their schools and communities, and made sure their voices were heard.
Connie K, Harry G, Iris B, Hugo L and Gracie S represented the school on the day.
Sharing Experiences and Setting Priorities
Throughout the morning, pupils shared their experiences, discussed priorities and voted on the issues they felt deserved the greatest attention. Topics included mental health, safety, the NHS, transport, discrimination and the environment, alongside jobs and opportunities.
Jobs and opportunities received the most votes and became the focus of the afternoon’s debate.
A Formal Debate in the County Council Chamber
The day concluded with a debate in the County Council Chamber, chaired by Gracie S. This gave every pupil involved the chance to discuss and debate the issues and share their perspectives in a formal setting.
The day also explored how schools could become more involved in the work of Devon Youth Council.
Shaping the Work of Devon Youth Council
The Youth Day aimed to ensure that the experiences and priorities of Devon’s young people inform the work of Devon Youth Council and county councillors. This will happen mainly through the Make Your Mark survey, a large survey where young people in Devon can vote and share their ideas, and through future campaigns.
One member of Devon Youth Council, who played a major part in organising the day, said:
“Everyone involved in the day, but especially the pupils from Exeter School, contributed amazing ideas and engaged with the discussions with real maturity. As part of the Youth Council, we were very anxious about how much input we would get, but it was amazing to see it all come together. The Youth Council learnt so much.”
Well Done to All Involved
Congratulations to Connie, Harry, Iris, Hugo and Gracie, and to everyone who took part, for representing the school with such confidence and maturity.
