‘The Olympians’
Their mission
The Olympians are a group of 11 Living Bankside Academy students who are fascinated by health and wellbeing and are passionate about shaping a healthier and happier future for themselves and the community.
Ranging from the ages of 16 to 19 and living in London, they are part of the generation which is increasingly aware of the importance of healthy lifestyles and the impact wellbeing has on both personal and professional success.
Over the Summer of 2025, they visited over 15+ companies and organisations and benefitted from interactive workshops, inspiring talks and unique activities which provided them with insights into the true importance of health and wellbeing.
Short Film
As well as furthering their knowledge about health and wellbeing in several industries, the Olympians were also tasked with creating a short film to promote the project they were tasked with developing.
Check out the short film they have created whilst on the Our Futures Programme.
This helped the Olympians develop crucial skills such as filming, video editing and storyboarding.
Journey Video
The Olympians also developed their video editing skills further by creating a journey video to showcase their time during the programme.
Check out this journey video they have created whilst on the Our Futures programme.
Workshops within the 2025 ‘Our Futures’ programme
GiffGaff
At GiffGaff, the Olympians engaged in a vibrant workshop focused on the essential pillars of wellbeing, inclusion, and equity within the modern workplace.
The session highlighted GiffGaff’s unique organizational culture, demonstrating how a company can successfully foster a positive and supportive atmosphere for its employees.
The students were particularly impressed by the creative office layout, which features themed meeting rooms and recreational areas like table tennis to encourage mental breaks and team bonding.
They learned that productivity and health go hand-in-hand when an environment celebrates diversity and playfulness.
This memorable experience provided a blueprint for the kind of inclusive professional world the students hope to enter.
Borough Market
The Olympians' visit to Borough Market provided a deep dive into how health and wellbeing are prioritised within a bustling food environment.
They engaged with various business owners, gaining an exclusive look into the rigorous health regulations that govern the market's operations.
The group was surprised and educated by fascinating facts, such as the natural longevity of milk.
The visit also provided valuable insights into the complex logistics of running the market stalls everyday.
This immersive experience left the students with a newfound appreciation for the meticulous efforts that ensure consumer health and safety.
Virgin Media/O2
The Olympians’ visit to VMO2 offered a fascinating look into the intersection of telecommunications and personal wellness.
Through an insightful seminar, the group examined the dual nature of technology, discussing how digital tools can be leveraged to support mental health while also debating the potential downsides of constant connectivity.
An interactive quiz and a spirited debate allowed the students to voice their opinions on the ethical responsibilities of tech giants in the modern age.
They explored the VMO2 offices to see how the company utilizes smart tech to streamline operations and improve employee work-life balance.
The session concluded with a powerful takeaway: technology is most effective when it is used mindfully to enhance, rather than detract from, our overall wellbeing.
Shangri-La
The Olympians enjoyed an unforgettable experience at the Shangri-La Hotel, at the iconic Shard building.
Ascending high above the London skyline, the group was treated to breathtaking views that offered a new perspective on the city they call home.
They were given a professional tour of the luxury hospitality operations, including a rare visit to the prestigious Shangri-La Suite to see world-class interior design firsthand.
The staff shared insights into the "Shangri-La way," which emphasizes extreme comfort, hospitality, and creating a sense of peace for guests.
This visit taught the students about the high standards of the service industry and the importance of creating environments that facilitate relaxation and luxury.
LEGO
At the LEGO offices, the Olympians witnessed how a world-renowned brand puts the values of play, inclusion, and wellbeing into practice.
They toured a workspace specifically designed with over 30 accessibility features, ensuring that every employee—regardless of physical ability—can navigate and thrive in the environment.
The group participated in a collaborative building activity that demonstrated how creative play can reduce workplace stress and boost collective problem-solving.
It was clear to the students that for LEGO, inclusion is not just a policy, but a core component of their design philosophy and team culture.
Their time at LEGO inspired the Olympians to advocate for more accessible and joyful spaces in their own future careers.
TP Bennett
The Olympians visited TP Bennett for a high-energy session that placed them at the heart of the architectural process through a live design competition.
Challenged to think like modern urban planners, the students worked in teams to conceptualize a community space that prioritized holistic health and wellbeing.
This hands-on activity provided a profound understanding of how physical environments can be engineered to reduce stress and foster social connection.
They explored the firm's portfolio, seeing firsthand how sustainable materials and natural light are implemented to enhance the quality of life for city dwellers.
The visit left the group inspired by the power of design to create healthier, more inclusive urban landscapes.
Tate Modern
Tate Modern welcomed The Olympians with a captivating tour of their latest exhibition, exploring how artists use creativity to reflect themes of health, wellbeing and the human experience.
The tour sparked lively discussions on how art can serve as a source of reflection, connection and resilience.
The students then participated in a creative workshop, using visual expression to explore their personal ideas about wellbeing.
This activity highlighted the dual role of art as a form of self-care and a powerful tool for communication.
We are also incredibly grateful to Tate Modern for generously hosting our graduation celebration, providing a perfect and inspiring setting to conclude the programme.
EY
The Olympians gained valuable insights into the crucial role of wellbeing in a fast-paced professional environment during their visit to EY.
The team shared practical strategies for achieving a sustainable work-life balance, from mindfulness techniques to effective stress management.
The students then collaborated on a group case study, tackling real-world business challenges and showcasing their problem-solving skills.
This hands-on activity highlighted the power of fresh ideas and teamwork in a professional setting.
The visit concluded with an open Q&A, leaving the Olympians with new motivation and practical tools to support their own health and wellbeing.
The Nest
The Olympians participated in a powerful and engaging workshop at The Nest, focusing on holistic health and wellbeing.
The session provided practical tips for building small but sustainable healthy habits into daily routines, encompassing mental, physical and emotional health.
A particularly insightful moment was a group discussion about how communities can collectively support one another’s wellbeing.
The Olympians were then challenged to create and present their own health and wellbeing campaigns, fostering creativity and a shared mission to make wellbeing accessible and engaging for young people.
This inspiring visit equipped the group with valuable strategies for both self-care and community support.
Shakespeare’s Globe
The Olympians enjoyed a brilliant workshop and tour at Shakespeare’s Globe, where they explored the deep connections between theatre and wellbeing.
The visit provided a fascinating glimpse into the Globe's history and how it keeps Shakespeare's timeless works alive.
A major highlight was stepping onto the stage themselves to act out scenes from Romeo and Juliet, which boosted their confidence, teamwork and appreciation for live performance.
The Globe team also spoke about how the joy of storytelling and creative expression found in theatre can profoundly enhance both individual and collective wellbeing.
This uplifting and memorable experience showed how the arts can connect people and inspire a healthier life.
BBC
The Olympians stepped into the fast-paced world of global broadcasting during an immersive visit to the BBC’s iconic headquarters.
They engaged in a sophisticated dialogue with seasoned journalists about the evolving landscape of news and media, exploring the critical importance of impartiality and editorial integrity in the digital age.
The group was then guided on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, where they witnessed the high-tech infrastructure required to broadcast to millions worldwide.
A particular highlight was the opportunity to enter one of the live news studios, where the students observed the technical precision of the gallery and the professional composure required under the bright lights.
This experience provided a profound understanding of how the BBC balances its historical legacy with modern innovation to keep the public informed and connected.
US Embassy
The Olympians were granted an exclusive tour of the US Embassy, a striking landmark of international cooperation.
They explored the building’s impressive art collection, discovering how each piece reflects the cultural history and shared values of the United States and the United Kingdom.
The visit provided a unique educational perspective on the role of diplomacy and cultural exchange in building healthy, stable global relationships.
The students learned how the embassy functions as a community in itself, with specialised facilities designed to support the wellbeing of its diplomatic staff.
This inspiring experience highlighted how open communication and mutual respect are the foundations of both international peace and personal growth.
Lancaster House
The Olympians received a warm welcome at Lancaster House, a venue celebrated for its rich history and diplomatic significance.
They embarked on an extraordinary tour, exploring the stories behind the venue's remarkable architecture and intricate artwork.
The students were fascinated by the elegant rooms, which have hosted numerous high-level events and featured in famous film productions.
This visit offered a unique insight into how a historic space can be preserved and celebrated.
The Olympians left with a profound appreciation for the heritage of the venue and the role it plays in modern British diplomacy
Walworth Garden
At Walworth Garden, the Olympians found a peaceful sanctuary that demonstrated the vital link between nature and mental clarity.
They spent the morning exploring the diverse plants within the site, learning how different species interact within a self-sustaining ecosystem.
The staff guided the group through a workshop on environmental stewardship, emphasising how individual, short-term actions contribute to the long-term health of the planet.
This visit served as a powerful reminder of the restorative benefits of green spaces for urban residents.
By the end of the session, the students gained a deeper appreciation for the environment and the importance of preserving natural habitats within the city.
Celebration Event
At the final event, The Olympians presented key learnings and insights gathered from various company workshops attended throughout the programme. They also showcased the short film they created to highlight the theme of Health and Wellbeing and promote their project.