Exeter students join debate at Youth Council as young people encouraged to make their mark
Around 70 young people took part in the event, discussing issues around mental health, safety, the NHS, transport, and jobs.
Pupils at a school in Exeter joined students across Devon to debate on the issues most affecting young people, ahead of this month’s county-wide youth vote.
It is understood around 70 young people from 18 schools took part in the Youth Day event organised by Devon Youth Council in October.
Students from each of these schools had the opportunity to share their experiences, discuss their priorities, and explore the barriers they felt young people faced in the community.
Issues that were discussed included those around mental health, safety, the NHS, transport, and jobs.
Exeter School on Victoria Park Road, Exeter, was represented on the day by pupils Connie K, Harry G, Iris B, Hugo L, and Gracie S.
As part of the day, students participated in a formal debate on these issues in the Devon County Council chamber at the County Hall in Exeter.
The debate was chaired by Exeter School student Gracie S.
Last month’s Youth Day is understood to be the first of its kind for Devon Youth Council.
It was organised with an aim of ensuring both the Youth Council and the wider County Council are more directly informed by the experiences and priorities of Devon’s young people.
The event comes as young people across the county are being encouraged to take part in the 2026 ‘Make Your Mark’ vote.
The newly announced ‘Make Your Mark’ initiative gives young people aged 11 to 18, or up to 25 if they have a protected characteristic, the opportunity to vote on what they believe deserves the most attention from the council.
The winning issue will become Devon Youth Council’s “main” campaign priority for the next two years, according to Devon County Council.
“Make Your Mark gives young people a genuine opportunity to influence the issues that affect their lives and communities,” said Devon County Councillor Richard Jefferies, cabinet member for children’s services.
“The views shared through this vote help inform conversations with decision-makers and provide valuable insight into the priorities of young people across Devon.
“I would encourage every eligible young person to take part and make sure their voice is heard.”
Young people are able to vote through their school or youth group, or online through the council directly here.
The vote is open until November 30, and the results will be announced on December 12.