Culture was the overriding theme at this year’s Merton Youth Forum Conference, which took place at the end of March in Morden Hall.

Nearly forty pupils from six of Merton’s Secondary Schools attended the conference, where they discussed issues prevalent to young people. Themes covered included youth culture, culture, stereotyping and what it means to be British in modern society. Both conference organisers and pupils were treated to a play, speeches and an interactive PowerPoint presentation.

The Merton Youth Pledge was also put under the spotlight, where pupils were asked for their opinions on the pledge, and they also responded to a questionnaire on the issue of stereotyping. The participants included children from Ricards Lodge, Raynes Park, Cricket Green, Tamworth Manor, Ursuline and Wimbledon College.

A great day was rounded off with a true slice of culture in the form of an African drumming session that was greatly enjoyed by all.

Merton’s Annual Youth Conference is organised and hosted by the Youth Forum in collaboration with Merton’s members of the Youth Parliament, who decide upon the agenda, format, venue and theme for each year’s conference.

If you require more information, please contact Jo Young on telephone number: 020 8640 7050. Alternatively you can write to Jo Young, Youth Participation Worker, Merton Youth Service, The Pavilion, Farm Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 6RA.