Newbury College welcomed rising star Felix Ross on Tuesday 01 April for a powerful and engaging enrichment session that combined live music with open discussion around key issues affecting young people today, including mental health, misogyny and discrimination.
Felix is a genre-blending artist whose emotionally honest lyrics and atmospheric alt-pop sound have earned him a growing following. His music, often described as a mix of spoken word, indie electronica and acoustic soul, resonates deeply with younger audiences. He has used his platform to champion inclusivity and mental wellbeing, gaining recognition from BBC Radio 1 and BBC Introducing. His rising popularity was confirmed by a recent sold-out headline show in London, cementing his place as one of the most exciting emerging voices on the UK music scene.
The event began with a live musical performance, followed by a candid talk in which Felix shared his own mental health experiences and the pressures of identity within the music industry. He then encouraged a student-led discussion, creating a supportive environment where young people could reflect on difficult but vital topics.
Dawn Butcher, Positive Behaviour Coach at Newbury College, said:
“Felix’s visit was a brilliant way to engage our students in conversations that really matter. Through his music and honesty, he created a safe, relatable space for young people to explore difficult topics like misogyny and mental health. It’s experiences like this that help build confidence, empathy and emotional resilience.”
The session formed part of the College’s Pastoral and Personal Development (PPD) programme, attended by 185 students from its Career Academy. PPD includes key themes such as healthy relationships, online safety, British values, and emotional wellbeing – all designed to prepare students for life, not just qualifications.
Following the session, the College received a message of thanks from a parent who shared the powerful impact Felix’s visit had at home.
“Thank you to the College for bringing in the singer Felix today. His talk about mental health and bullying really made an impact. After the performance, my daughter came home and, for the first time EVER, opened up to me about her anxiety and sadness. It felt like a huge breakthrough after some tough times. It’s clear that the singer's words really spoke to her, and I can’t express how grateful I am.”
The parent also praised the College for creating a supportive space where such important conversations can begin.
The visit comes at a time of increased national attention on digital safeguarding. The recent release of Netflix’s Adolescence, the UK’s most-streamed series this year, has shone a spotlight on how young people may use emoji codes to share hidden messages involving radicalisation, misogyny and harmful behaviours. Following this, police forces and charities have circulated a ‘periodic table of sinister emojis’ to help parents and schools identify warning signs.
In addition, Newbury College is redoubling its efforts to promote a culture of respect and awareness, supported by staff training and student education on digital safety and healthy relationships.
Jatinder Matharu, Director of Safeguarding & Support, added:
“Our priority is to create a respectful, inclusive environment where students feel safe to express themselves and speak out. Sessions like this not only raise awareness but help students think critically about the world around them – on and offline.”
With his debut EP Still Here, Still Healing reaching over 250,000 streams, Felix continues to tour the UK, bringing his message of resilience and change to schools, colleges and community audiences nationwide.
To learn more about how Newbury College supports student wellbeing and promotes online safety, visit newbury-college.ac.uk/safe.