Here at Last, a boy band with 2.5million followers on TikTok, performed at a TGS to spread an important message.

The band, who have previously supported The Vamps, sang cover versions of songs by James Arthur, Ed Sheeran, Lewis Capaldi and Harry Styles in the school hall to an audience of appreciative Year 7 and 8 students on Wednesday October 5.

As well as giving a great performance, the band took the time to discuss mental health, including some of the causes of mental health problems in young people such as stress at school, relationships etc, who to turn to for help and the importance of speaking up.

They also spoke about the continued stresses of the pandemic – the loss we might all have felt and how we can all better handle the unpredictability and hardship of it all.

The band gave advice on how to stay safe online – never giving out personal information; never meeting strangers online; safety on social network sites; following rules set by your parents on the internet; as well as discussing cyber bullying and where to go for help. Students will further explore these topics during their RSHE lessons this year.

Pedro, 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.’

Sam Cartland, Assistant Headteacher, had this to say: “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 schools work on Respectful Behaviours and our Speak Up Campaign. It was brilliant for students to engage in this through music’.

The students thoroughly enjoyed the session, with the majority of Year 7 evaluating the sessions as 9 or 10 out of 10!

Watch a clip of them singing here