Youth Health Champions at SCFS – Meet the Students, Hear Their Voices
Episode 1: Shyla and Edith (Year 9)
As Year 11 students at South Chingford Foundation School prepare for their upcoming exams, we’re putting student wellbeing front and centre. To support this, we’re proud to launch our new Youth Health Champions series—where student leaders share peer-to-peer advice to promote positive mental health.
In this first edition, we meet two of our Year 9 Youth Health Champions, Shyla and Edith, who offer honest reflections and practical tips for staying calm, motivated, and supported during exam season.
Who are you, and what does being a Youth Health Champion mean to you?
Shyla: “My name is Shyla and being a Youth Health Champion means I’m here to help students and guide them if they have any questions.”
Edith: “I’m Edith, and to me, being a Youth Health Champion means I get to help others. I’ve found that helping other people also helps me feel better.”
What advice would you give to Year 11 students right now?
Shyla: “Don’t give up—keep going even when it feels tough.”
Edith: “Take care of yourself—make sure you’re eating, drinking, and getting good sleep.”
What’s something simple that helps you stay calm during stressful times?
Shyla: “Breathing exercises really help me feel calm.”
Edith: “I think about what my friends would do in the same situation—it helps to put things in perspective.”
What’s one thing you wish someone had told you before your last assignments?
Shyla: “To take my time and do as much revision as I can.”
Edith: “Just take your time—don’t rush it.”
What can parents or carers do to support their child during exams?
Shyla: “Support them in whatever way they need.”
Edith: “Help them when they ask for it, but don’t be afraid to give them space, too.”
If you had 10 seconds to speak to every student at SCFS, what would you say?
Shyla: “Keep pushing—you’re nearly there.”
Edith: “Take care of yourself, and don’t give up.”
Why this matters
This conversation comes at a time when many of our students—especially Year 11—are facing heightened pressure. Hearing directly from peers who care, empathise, and want to help reminds us that wellbeing is a shared responsibility. Whether it's advice on managing stress or a reminder to take breaks, these voices are here to support.
Stay tuned for more from our Youth Health Champions, and don’t forget to visit our Wellbeing Hub and follow us on social media for ongoing resources during exam season and beyond.
