The morning was a massive success, with students fully immersing themselves in two creative sessions. Led by Brighton-based ceramicist El Samms (They/Them), students sculpted clay pinch pots decorated with meaningful words and secret personal messages. They also crafted positive title messages to share with the wider community. Bristol filmmaker Jon Aitken (He/Him) was on hand to document the inspiring day.

The event brought together university researchers, creative professionals, and students for an honest conversation about mental health:

Laura Chalmers (Scott College): "Creativity serves as a powerful outlet for mental health, helping to process complex emotions, reduce stress, and restore balance. It gives us a chance to be ourselves while caring for others in our community."

Hollie (Intercom Trust): "It’s been so amazing to be so creative today. It is so important and good for all of our mental health."

Chloe (Student): "Wow, it’s so important to live your life, love yourself, and laugh with friends."

Georgie (Guest Student, DHSB): "Love it all, it’s been the best morning. Thank you!"

Jon Aitken (Filmmaker): "I am so impressed by the creativity and freedom of expression. It really shows the importance of a community spirit."

El Samms (Ceramicist): "The young people should be so proud of themselves for how they showed up today on a Sunday, in their own time, to work and come together."

Prof. Olu Jenzen (Southampton University): "The young people here are so lovely with each other. It was an absolute pleasure to be in your company."

Alex Wardle, Community Leisure Manager, had this to say, "These kinds of events are important to who we are as a College as well as a Community Hub. It was fantastic to see young people from the community engaging with the Create/Connect team as well as Laura and Joan, and the Aspire Sports and Community Hub team were delighted to be a small part of the day."

Our students were outstanding ambassadors for Scott College, welcoming a guest peer from Devonport High School for Boys, and engaging 100% with every task.

A massive thank you to our visiting professionals, including Dr. Abby Barras (She/Her) from Southampton University, and to Scott College’s own Mrs Rust and Mr Wardle for giving up their Sunday to make this event possible.

 

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This event was made possible thanks to the Aspire Sports and Community Hub team, who generously provided the workshop space free of charge. The Hub offers fantastic facilities for local groups, clubs, organisations, and residents across both Scott Medical & Healthcare College and Stoke Damerel Community College. Our spaces are available for community hire – to find out more or to make a booking, please contact Alex at 01752 284114 or email AspireHub@sdcc.net.