On Thursday 26 May 2022 our Expressive Arts Faculty hosted our annual Young Singer of the Year event. Entries this year came from Years 7-10, performing a range of styles from Classical and Musical Theatre to Pop. The quality of the 21 finalists was incredibly high, with some phenomenal performances, and judges had a very hard job deciding who to give runner up and winner awards to.

Some of the singers are new to performing and some are more experienced - a number had performed in Matilda the Musical and previous Young Singers and it was lovely to see them again. It was a fantastic opportunity for the younger pupils to watch established Key Stage 4 singers and see the high standard they could, with hard work and determination, be performing at in a few years time.

We welcomed Ms Henson and Mr Clutterbuck to judge this year alongside two former pupils Joanna and Jodie. Jodie won KS4 Young Singer in 2020 so also performed to us her inspiring version of ‘All That Matters’. I think the pupils really appreciated having judges who had been in their shoes as performers a few years ago, and who have gone on to study and excel in performance at college.

Judges commented on the quality of performances this year and every pupil who performed should feel incredibly proud of what they achieved. Every time they perform, their confidence grows and their skill improves.

Singing Teacher Miss Faux commented: 'It was lovely to be able to welcome and audience back to watch, EA1 was filled with 60 people there to support the performers. The line up of singers in KS4 especially was incredibly strong and I was glad I was not in a judge’s chair having to choose between them! I am proud of all the performers, from some Year 7s and 8s who have never performed to an audience before, but also of the more experienced performers for continuing to push themselves, try new things and become great role models for the younger pupils.'

‘It is always a privilege to be invited to judge our Young Singer Competition and this year was no exception. The pupils had clearly challenged themselves in their song choices and, in their performances, we were definitely transported to concert venues and the West End. The quality of the singing was superb. All pupils sung with passion and expression. There was clear evidence of progression and it was great to see the encouragement and support given to our younger pupils by our more accomplished singers. The standard was exceptionally high. Having the company of two former pupils who are currently studying at Stagedoor Learning as fellow judges alongside myself and Mr Clutterbuck was really useful. While we were able to pick out those who impressed, they were able to advise us regarding technical ability. My congratulations go to everyone who took part and to our Expressive Arts' team. It was a very welcome evening of pure joy!’

Ms Henson, Headteacher