TikTok boy band plays at Theale School

A TikTok famous boy band recently played a mental heath inspired performance at Theale Green School.

Here at Last, who have 2.5 million TikTok followers, played to Year 7 and 8 students in the school hall last Wednesday.

The band, who have previously supported The Vamps, sang cover versions of songs by James Arthur, Ed Sheeran, Lewis Capaldi and Harry Styles.

The band further spoke with pupils about the key causes of mental health issues in young people, including study-related stresses, relationship problems and the continued hardships of the pandemic.

The band advised pupils on internet safety, including tips on never revealing personal information, meeting strangers online, safety on social network sites and where to seek help in cases of cyber bullying.

Pupils will explore all of these topics further in their RSHE lessons this year.

One of the band members said: “Growing up, I was slightly different, posting singing videos on Instagram and people commented it was very girlish.

"All of us in the band have had similar comments. Having all had our own issues with cyber bullying and mental health, we are in the perfect position to deliver such a positive message to pupils and are excited to be given the opportunity to educate and inspire."

Assistant headteacher, Sam Cartland, added: "Our students have been so lucky to watch the band perform. The messages are so important as technology usage and engagement in social media increases.

"Every message the band gave supports the school's work on Respectful Behaviours and our Speak Up campaign. It was brilliant for students to engage in this through music."

The majority of Year 7 gave the sessions a quality rating of nine or 10 out of 10.