BBC Newsround: Children’s Mental Health Week

Bristol Ensemble was delighted to take part in Voices for Life’s seventh Stardust Concert at Bath Abbey on Wednesday 5th February 2025, an inspiring event that welcomed BBC Newsround as they explored the benefits of singing for children’s wellbeing. The concert featured 200 children from six local primary schools, alongside the Voices for Life Bath Children’s Choir.

The BBC’s visit came for Children’s Mental Health Week, an initiative led by children’s mental health charity Place2Be to raise awareness of young people’s wellbeing. Newsround’s special bulletin on the positive impact of singing and on children’s confidence and wellbeing.

In 2024, 75% of participants reported increased confidence, while 70% improved their ability to build healthy relationships with peers.

In an interview with Newsround, a young soloist from the concert shared: ‘Singing is really good for my mental health because it takes my mind away from other things. And it’s a great way to express your feelings and emotions.’

Participating schools included Castle Primary School, St Mary’s Primary School, St Michael’s Junior School, St Martin’s Garden School, Roundhill Primary School, and St Keyna Primary School. The children were joined by soloists from Stagecoach Bath, musical director Pete Harrison, narrator John Telfer (The Archers), and the Bristol Ensemble. To enhance accessibility, a Makaton sign language accompaniment was provided by Norland College.

Bristol Ensemble is proud to have been part of this uplifting and impactful event, championing the power of music to support children’s wellbeing.