saltash.net community school once again saw an excellent display of community togetherness as a crowd of nearly 100 people came together in aid of an amazing cause for charity on Friday 9th November. ‘Shut Down the Stigma’, a showcase of local talent, ran for the second year in a row, this time supporting the charity Stem4, whilst further promoting awareness of mental health.
As they did last year, Kari Summers and Danielle Burnard (both former saltash.net students) independently planned, designed and co-ordinated the event. The success of last year’s show, and the support that was shown, warranted another showcase to be held. They took it upon themselves to once again raise money and more importantly raise awareness for teenage mental health. Many local businesses contributed to this year’s show, providing refreshments and raffle prizes, to raise even more money for the charity.
The production aimed to bring awareness to the mental health issues affecting much of our society today. The showcase featured vocal, musical and dance performances by current students at saltash.net, who gave up their free time to rehearse and prepare fantastic entertainment for the evening.
A short speech followed each performance, from either a student at the school (Jasmine Leslie, Ellie Kevern, Ellie Wanless and Jemima Budd), addressing the audience with background facts and figures on mental health, or from Kari and Danielle, who offered kind words and advice to those suffering or those who are currently supporting someone with mental health conditions.
To represent another huge success, the evening raised a total of £1,055, exceeding the initial target of £1,000, as well as last year’s total of £780.
In addition to Kari, Danielle and the talented performers, praise must also go to the group of volunteer students who helped with preparation and assistance on the night; from helping with refreshments and raffle prizes to backstage arrangements, lighting and sound. Together, the team managed to run a smooth and enjoyable night. A special mention must also go out to Mr Scott Wieprecht (Head of Year 7 at saltash.net) for spending his own time compiling and arranging the sound on the night.
An all-round excellent evening, thoroughly enjoyed by everyone involved and a valuable addition to the school’s Be Well programme, which promotes physical and mental well-being throughout all year groups.
Miss Littledyke, Headteacher, said, “I was so delighted when Kari and Danielle contacted me to say that even though they have left the school, they still wanted to organise this event once again this year. Supporting students with their mental health is central to our ethos, with Empathy as one of our core values. Yet again the students have made me so proud.”
Article written by Tom Burnard, Year 11 student at saltash.net community school and photos taken by Year 13 student Lydia Wilmot.
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