Merchant Taylors’ Pupils Champion Student Wellbeing at London Conference

Four pupils from Merchant Taylors’ School recently attended the annual Wellbeing Conference at Merchant Taylors’ Hall in London. The event brought together pupils and staff from schools across the Merchant Taylors’ Company network. This year’s theme focused on safe spaces and belonging, with a strong emphasis on pupil voice and student wellbeing.

Inspiring Keynote Speakers

Delegates were treated to inspiring talks from award-winning poet and LGBT+ activist Dean Atta, and Seema Flower, founder of Blind Ambition. Seema is an international expert in disability and visual awareness. Both speakers encouraged attendees to think about how schools can create environments where people are accepted for who they are.

Merchant Taylors’ Pupils Present on the TENDO Programme

Claudia, David, Jude and Ruby gave a confident and engaging presentation on the School’s TENDO programme. They explained how it helps pupils feel part of the community and supports their wellbeing. Their talk was clear, thoughtful and well received by everyone in attendance.

Ruby, David, Claudia and Jude at the 2025 Wellbeing Conference, London.

Learning from Other Schools

The conference also featured workshops led by pupils from other Merchant Taylors’ Company schools. Wolverhampton Grammar School shared their work on Diversity Champions. Pupils from St Helen’s School discussed how they are exploring historical artefacts linked to colonialism and slavery to encourage inclusive discussion. Merchant Taylors’ School, Northwood, presented on affinity theory and how our sense of connection with others shapes our behaviour.

Learning Together

A unique aspect of the day was the opportunity for pupils and staff to learn side by side. One delegate described the experience as “student voice, live in the moment,” highlighting the value of young people being part of professional learning conversations.

A Proud Moment for the School

Claudia, David, Jude and Ruby represented Merchant Taylors’ with maturity and insight. They demonstrated the values of respect, inclusivity and confidence. We are incredibly proud of their contribution and the example they set for others.