Let’s Break the Cycle – Clevedon School’s Revolutionary Video on Masculinity and Mental Well-being
By Jill Dando News
In a groundbreaking initiative, staff and students at Clevedon School in Somerset have created a compelling video that challenges deeply ingrained perceptions of masculinity.
Titled “Let’s Break the Cycle,” the video offers a raw and compassionate exploration of toxic masculinity and its widespread impact on society.
The student-led project addresses a critical issue facing young men today: the harmful stereotypes that pressure males to suppress their emotions and conform to a narrow, damaging definition of manhood.
Through powerful narration, the video exposes how toxic masculinity creates a destructive cycle that affects not only men but also entire communities.
Key themes include the mental health challenges men face, societal expectations discouraging emotional vulnerability, and the broader implications of restrictive gender norms.
The video emphasises that true strength lies in emotional honesty rather than maintaining a facade of toughness.
Of particular significance is the video’s focus on the alarming suicide rates among men under 50 in the UK, underscoring the urgent need to address mental health stigma.
Teacher Elliot Nightingale, who spearheaded the assembly and video project, explained his personal connection to the topic:
“This is something I’m deeply passionate about. I’ve struggled with mental health myself, and it wasn’t until last year that I opened up to colleagues, only to find they were experiencing similar challenges. It really highlighted how widespread these issues are—even when they’re not visible.”
Building on a previous video about men’s mental health, this year’s project took a step further by exploring how toxic masculinity impacts not only individuals but also society at large, including relationships and women’s experiences.
Elliott added: “We wanted to show how these traits don’t just affect the person exhibiting them but ripple outwards, impacting everyone around them.
“The video and assembly had a huge impact. Students reacted incredibly positively They have been extremely forthcoming about issues they have had and are encouraged about how they may help friends and family to relive some of the feelings they may be experiencing.”
The narrative in “Let’s Break the Cycle” argues that when men are taught to view vulnerability as weakness, they are less likely to seek help, leading to isolation and even self-harm.
The project stands out not only for its powerful message but also for its collaborative nature. By uniting staff and students, Clevedon School has created a safe platform for dialogue about gender, mental health, and personal growth.
The video calls for a radical reimagining of masculinity—one that embraces emotional expression, empathy, and genuine human connection.
“Real strength comes from vulnerability,” the video asserts, challenging viewers to reconsider long-held beliefs about manhood.
This inspiring message of hope suggests that by breaking free from toxic norms, society can create a more compassionate and understanding environment for everyone.
