Woolston Brook School

By Mark Cullen, 13/6/25

In a heartening initiative that has sparked a wave of positive change at Woolston Brook, the Amy Winehouse Foundation has been delivering weekly workshops to Key Stage 3 and 4 students, offering vital support and education on a range of challenging topics. Since April, these workshops have become a weekly highlight for students, providing a safe and engaging space to explore themes that directly impact their lives.

Led by Jo Flanagan, a Year 9 form tutor and Head of Humanities at Woolston Brook, the collaboration with the Amy Winehouse Foundation began on a Wednesday, quickly establishing a reputation for creating an atmosphere conducive to open discussion. The Foundation, which aims to prevent the detrimental effects of drug and alcohol misuse among young people, has found a particularly receptive audience within a school that caters to students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Their mission aligns seamlessly with that of Woolston Brook, ensuring that the support offered is not only relevant but vital.

"The impact has been truly remarkable," - Jo Flanagan

"The impact has been truly remarkable," remarked Jo Flanagan when reflecting on the workshops. "We've seen a significant shift in the students' engagement and their willingness to discuss difficult subjects. The Amy Winehouse Foundation facilitators are incredibly skilled at creating a supportive environment where our young people feel comfortable opening up." This feedback illuminates the workshops' profound influence on the students, showcasing the necessity of addressing challenging topics in a nurturing setting.

Each Wednesday, the Foundation's sessions cater specifically to either Key Stage 4 or Key Stage 3 students, ensuring that the content is tailored to be age-appropriate. This thoughtful structuring allows the facilitators to delve into diverse themes that resonate with the everyday challenges faced by young people today. From destigmatising different forms of addiction to confronting the growing concern surrounding vaping, the workshops offer a comprehensive approach that is both forward-thinking and sensitive.

"One of the most striking aspects has been how openly the students have engaged with topics like addiction," shared Ms Flanagan. "The Foundation's approach helps to destigmatise these issues, fostering a sense of understanding and empathy rather than judgment. It’s about equipping them with knowledge and coping mechanisms." By providing the students with a platform to explore and discuss these topics, the Amy Winehouse Foundation empowers them to develop their understanding while simultaneously reinforcing the importance of empathy and support.

The workshops go well beyond merely delivering informational content; they actively encourage student participation, critical thinking, and the development of essential life skills. Each session is interactive, allowing students the chance to pose questions, share personal perspectives, and engage in meaningful discussions with both facilitators and their peers. This participatory approach cultivates trust, encouraging open lines of communication and reflection among students—a crucial aspect in a school environment where vulnerability is often present.

For many students at Woolston Brook, the workshops offer a unique opportunity to gain access to information and support that may otherwise be unattainable. By tackling difficult subjects within the school setting, such discussions become normalised, breaking down barriers that often prevent young people from seeking help for their mental health and well-being. Such proactive engagement is commendable, paving the way for a brighter, more informed future.

As the academic year nears its conclusion, the positive ripple effects of the Amy Winehouse Foundation’s presence at Woolston Brook has become increasingly clear. The weekly workshops have not only educated students on vital issues, but they have also empowered them with greater self-awareness and resilience. These transformative sessions serve as a testament to the power of targeted and compassionate interventions—proving that with the right support, young people can navigate their challenges effectively and with confidence.

Special thanks go to Katie from the Amy Winehouse Foundation for sharing her journey and insights throughout this collaboration. The Foundation's role in shaping the lives of young people at Woolston Brook cannot be overstated. It stands as a shining example of how impactful support can create a positive culture of openness and understanding, equipping the next generation with the tools they need for healthier futures.

The partnership between Woolston Brook and the Amy Winehouse Foundation has not only provided essential education and support but has also fostered an environment of growth and resilience for students. As they move forward, they carry with them valuable life skills and a profound understanding of the importance of mental health discussions—setting foot on a path towards more informed, balanced, and fulfilled lives.