In the last fortnight, the Sixth Form at FHS has been treated to two very contrasting yet equally informative lectures.  We were pleased to welcome Vince Wolverson, a cancer survivor and active campaigner for the charity ‘It’s on the Ball’.  His main goal is to raise awareness, particularly of the importance of getting to know your body, and therefore being able to recognise if, during a regular self-assessment, anything has changed.

Early detection of any cancer is vital for the best treatment outcomes. He gave several useful tips and encouraged us to make sure our brothers, fathers, uncles, and friends are aware of these issues, and understand that the success rate for surviving testicular cancer is very high, upon early diagnosis.  Vince also gave us several useful links to Breast Cancer awareness groups.

On Monday, we welcomed back Isobel Jacobs, this time presenting on behalf of Animal Aid.  A charity dedicated to fighting animal abuse and promoting a cruelty-free lifestyle, all their speakers come at their own expense to raise awareness of their campaign.  Isobel, herself a vegan, reminded us of the implications to the planet of our society’s dependence on meat as a dietary staple.

Including the agricultural aspects, industrial methods of keeping livestock, the land use for growing feed, and the harshness of the abattoir, including the PTSD that affects workers in the slaughterhouse.   She also touched on the abuse of animals in sport, using shooting or horse racing as specific examples.

In summary, the essence of her message was why should we treat a puppy (or any other pet) as a beloved member of the family yet consider a farm animal as food?  Perhaps we can start up an animal club here at FHS to promote a cruelty-free world.

Jane Melchers, Assistant Head of Sixth Form