West Lothian College perform play designed to explore childhood trauma and stress

dailyrecord.co.uk:

West Lothian College performed an exciting new show that aims to help children cope with trauma and stress.Students worked with Dr Suzanne Zeedyk, an influencer in making Scotland a trauma-informed nation, to host eight performances of The Little Iceberg Musical last week.The musical was based on the Little Iceberg book written by primary teacher, Nicky Murray, which many schools are using to explore trauma and stress.The book was transformed into a musical by Siobhan Argyle who wrote all the songs and music in just two weeks during lockdown.As part of the college’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness of trauma and adverse childhood experiences, 763 students and 217 school pupils saw the musical in eight performances over four days.Most of the students are studying child, health and social care courses and an understanding of the impact that trauma has on people is very relevant to their future careers.Nine workshops took place throughout the week, including one involving around 300 college staff.These gave students and staff the opportunity to hear more about understanding trauma from leading expert, Dr Suzanne Zeedyk.The feedback was very positive from staff and students.

Childhood practice student, Leanne Berry said: "I loved the singing and I could see how children could relate to the story. I had read the book to my son who is six and he loved it and liked the kind bird.“If he had seen this he would have understood the story even more as the music brought it to life.”Dr Suzanne Zeedyk said she had been impressed with the commitment and dedication of the students.She added: “I have been absolutely delighted to support West Lothian College in their goal of leading an entire campus – staff, students and wider community