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A talented group of pupils from Newton Primary School, Porthcawl, have once again represented Wales on the national stage after being selected to perform at the UK Schools National Songwriting Competition in London for the second consecutive year.
Out of more than 350 schools across the UK, Newton Primary was the only school invited to perform again with 15 pupils and two staff members making the trip to London to perform their original song ‘We Believe In You’ in front of a live audience and a panel of music industry experts.
Despite fierce competition from schools including several comprehensives and academies, the pupils performed with confidence, enthusiasm, and professionalism, earning high praise from judges and fellow competitors alike.
Head of Performing Arts, Henley Jenkins, said: “The children have been practising together for months, showing incredible dedication and teamwork in preparation for the finals. Well done to all the children who were involved and to all of the parents who supported us – you’ve made us all so proud!
“We have built a strong reputation for music and the expressive arts, with the ‘Newton Singer Songwriters’ group forming in 2022. Since then, the pupils have taken part in numerous performances, songwriting sessions, and recording opportunities, showcasing the school’s commitment to creativity and the expressive arts curriculum.”
Pupils described the trip as an unforgettable experience:
Ottilie Cosson said: “It was an amazing experience to take part in this competition for the second time. I had been looking forward to this so much since we were selected to compete in the final.”
Summer Doughty added: “It was the most magical time as everyone shared their wonderful songs on stage. We had been practising for such a long time in anticipation of the final and we really enjoyed it.”
Leo Pickard said: “It was the best experience ever, as all the groups were excellent singers and it was great to be a part of it. To be the only school chosen to compete for the second time was unbelievable!”
Seren Devlin-Davies added: “I really enjoyed the laughter we had on the day of the performance. We worked together as a team and had fun and that’s what really matters. It was a wonderful experience and I would love to do it again!”
“This is a fantastic achievement for Newton Primary and a shining example of how the expressive arts curriculum can positively impact our pupils and staff. “To be the only school in the UK invited to perform for consecutive years speaks volumes and is testament to the creativity, teamwork and passion of staff and pupils.”
