Students at Shireland Biomedical UTC took centre stage in a new anti-bullying film created by The Diana Award. The film was developed in partnership with shampoo brand Head & Shoulders, as part of the #FreeTheShoulders campaign. The film highlights the impact of appearance-based bullying on young people and aims to encourage more open conversations around the issue.
Ahead of filming, students took part in workshop sessions exploring what bullying related to appearance means to them and how it can affect confidence and wellbeing. Working with The Diana Award, they developed a fictional scenario and storyboard, using their own ideas to shape an authentic and relatable storyline.
Students then took part in workshops led by the Academy’s drama department, developing their skills and confidence before being cast in their roles. They brought the story to life on screen, highlighting the experiences of young people affected by appearance-based bullying. They also gained insight into the filmmaking process, from planning to production, giving them a fuller understanding of how awareness campaigns are created.
Gulfam Shahzad, Principal at Shireland Biomedical UTC, said: “Taking part in this project gave our students a meaningful platform and a real voice on an issue that affects so many young people. We are incredibly proud of what they achieved. By being involved in the film, students had the opportunity to explore the topic of bullying creatively and use their voices to raise awareness in a way that can make a genuine difference. They approached the project with maturity, empathy, and a strong sense of responsibility.
“We hope the film encourages open conversations, gives young people the confidence to speak up, and helps them feel seen, heard and supported, while promoting kindness and respect across school communities.”
As a result of students’ participation, the Academy will receive anti-bullying ambassador training for up to 50 students. The Diana Award’s Anti-Bullying Programme equips young people with the skills to recognise bullying behaviours, support their peers, and lead initiatives that help create safer, more inclusive school environments.
Alex Holmes, Deputy CEO of The Diana Award, said: “Young people are at the heart of everything we do at The Diana Award. This film shows just how powerful their voices can be. The students at Shireland Biomedical UTC led this process by shaping a story that will resonate with their peers across the country. We’re proud to support them through our Anti-Bullying Ambassador programme and to continue creating spaces where young people can drive meaningful change.”
Now in its fifth year, the #FreeTheShoulders campaign has reached almost two million young people, parents and adults, educating them about all forms of bullying, including those linked to appearance. The campaign video will be shared across The Diana Award’s platforms and resources, reaching schools and communities across the country.
Supported by HRH The Prince of Wales and Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, The Diana Award was founded as a lasting legacy to Diana, the late Princess of Wales. The charity aims to foster, develop and inspire positive change in the lives of young people through a range of programmes and mentoring, including the youth-led Anti-Bullying Ambassadors Programme.
The Anti-Bullying Ambassadors Programme has currently trained over 50,000 young people across the UK to lead anti-bullying campaigns in their schools.
Learn more about the #FreeTheShoulders campaign and The Diana Award here.
