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B6’s Leadership Programme Marks a Momentous Men’s Mental Health Month

B6’s Momentum Programme, The Sixth Form’s student leadership initiative for male learners, delivered a powerful, high-energy schedule in November as part of Men’s Mental Health Month. It put wellbeing, resilience and positive role modelling at the heart of college life.

The Momentum Programme is designed to give The Sixth Form’s male students the tools, mindset, and motivation to step into leadership with purpose and responsibility. While men continue to be well represented in leadership roles, socio-economic background can often be a barrier to accessing these opportunities. This programme seeks to level the playing field—developing professional skills, encouraging self-belief, and nurturing career-ready young men who lead with empathy, strength, and integrity.

Men’s Mental Health Month launched with the debut episode of the Momentum Student Leadership Podcast, where learners led thoughtful discussions on motivation, resilience and maintaining a positive mindset. Students showed exceptional maturity as they shared personal experiences and reinforced the importance of open, honest conversations around mental health.

Momentum also welcomed nutritionist and personal trainer, Phil Pukiello, who delivered an inspiring workshop on healthy eating and sustainable lifestyle habits. Speaking openly about his own challenges and how fitness transformed his life, Phil encouraged students to think critically about how social media shapes unrealistic body standards. He also offered practical guidance on what to eat, and what to avoid, when preparing for exams.

Reflecting on the podcast discussion about mindset, first-year Triple Vocational Level 3 Public Services student: Mason Sharples, who joined The Sixth Form from Westhoughton High School, said:

“The session had a big impact on me to understand what other people are thinking about fitness, and to realise the effect social media has on us when it sets such unrealistic goals. Then we wonder why so many lads struggle to keep a positive mindset.”

As part of the Student Leadership Enrichment Day, students embraced the cold for a snowy hike up Rivington Pike: a fitting reminder of the connection between movement, resilience and mental wellbeing, echoing Phil’s message throughout the month.

First-year Triple Vocational Science student, Angus Bardsley, who joined The Sixth Form from the Co-op Academy Swinton really enjoyed the opportunity saying:

I decided to go on the Rivington hike because I thought it would be a good chance to get out of college for a bit and do something positive for my mental health. With everything going on, it was nice to just walk, chat, and be around people without any pressure. The hike was enjoyable — the views were great, and it felt good to do something active. By the end of it I felt lighter, like I’d had a proper reset. Beautiful weather and atmosphere were a plus too. 

To round off the programme, learners heard from Mark Wilson of PepsiCo, the company’s Raw Material Manager for Europe. The event set a new attendance record for Momentum, with more than 200 students joining to hear Mark share insights from his global career, champion resilience and offer invaluable advice on building a strong, proactive attitude.

All activities during Men’s Mental Health Month were coordinated by Momentum Coordinator, Nick Fisher, whose commitment has been instrumental in raising awareness and promoting college-wide engagement with men’s mental health.

Find out more about our Student Leadership programmes here