SIXTH FORM: RGS encourages pupils to discuss their health

VISITING speaker Rachel Wilkinson delivered a powerful presentation to our sixth formers, encouraging them to discuss their thoughts and fears about the difficult subject of teenage cancer.

The Teenage Cancer Trust aims to get every secondary school in the country to raise awareness of the disease among young people.

“We want to ensure every teenager has the tools to be aware of the warning signs associated with cancer and the benefits of early detection,” said Rachel, the education executive for the charity in North Yorkshire.

“What is also incredibly important is that we have a generation of youngsters who are not afraid to talk about cancer.”

Although rare, around seven children and young people in the UK are diagnosed with cancer every day: “The worry is that 37% of all teenage cancers are diagnosed at A&E,” said Rachel.

“Ripon Grammar School students were fabulous, as always. They were engaged, informed and all left empowered to go home and talk about teenage cancer. Thank you to RGS for encouraging students to discuss their health. RGS’s support to this programme is invaluable.”

Students said they found the thought-provoking session, part of a wider enrichment programme aimed at equipping students with skills and knowledge surrounding physical and mental fitness, valuable and informative.

For more information, visit the TCT website: www.teenagecancertrust.org