‘Beyond The Labels’ is a lunchtime group that has been run by local organisation RJ Working, at Humphry Davy School, since October 2024.  The project introduces young people to Restorative Practice as a set of skills and a way of working together which supports leadership and teamwork.

Youth Workers from the RJ Working team have supported students in Years 9, 10 and 11 to build a safe and supported space to make connections, and explore issues related to identity.  The group celebrates the ways in which we are different, and also the ways in which we are same, by finding the threads that connect us.  These sessions have included games and creative activities; looking at issues that are important to them and how to challenge stereotypes and overcome prejudice.

The ‘Beyond The Labels’ group decided that they wanted to do something to share the values of their group with the wider community.  The result is a beautiful mural that they designed and painted on our school grounds.  The artwork is a stunning display of colour and natural shapes.  Filled with words that are of great importance to us as a school, as well as a special someone who we hold very dear to our hearts.  Our very own resident cat, Minstrel (who is still happily enjoying his retirement), has earned his place on the beautiful wall for all to see.  It has been so lovely hearing all the comments of admiration and support as other students and staff move about the school throughout the day.  The weather has certainly been on our side, with beautiful sunshine beaming down on our team as they transformed this blank canvas into their vision. 

Thank you RJ Working for helping their idea come to life and a big ‘well done’ to our students for creating such a stunning mural for our school community to enjoy for years to come.