Haygrove School Celebrates New Orchestra Amidst Ongoing Building Concerns

A Somerset school has marked the establishment of its new string orchestra and creative arts department, following a partial closure last year attributed to building safety issues. Haygrove School, located in Bridgwater, experienced a partial shutdown in August 2023, leading to some classes being conducted in temporary facilities since that time. Nevertheless, a student characterized her participation in the new string orchestra as an opportunity she had not anticipated when she initially enrolled at the school. The ensemble, guided by a husband and wife teaching duo, comprises members with varying levels of experience, from those who have played for a year to individuals who began playing the violin just last month. Following a rehearsal for a Christmas concert scheduled for the same evening, Lucy, who became a member of the group only a few months prior, expressed that playing with the orchestra felt like “you’re all part of something.” “I never thought when I joined Haygrove I would be playing in an orchestra. But then when I came here it’s been really nice to have such an opportunity I wouldn’t have anywhere else.” Lucy further stated that the teachers had been “nice and supportive”. Ms Perre, a music educator at the institution, remarked that it was a “fantastic feeling” to observe the children’s progress over the last 12 months. “What I want to achieve is to give these children the opportunity I had when I was a young student,” she said. “I am from Bridgwater and I’ve come back to work here and I love the experience. The fact I’m able to offer this opportunity for them is fantastic.” Leanne Mills, Haygrove’s interim headteacher, expressed that she was “so proud” of the school’s music team, further stating: “The skill and talent they’ve bought in is just flourishing.” “Music supports our young people with mental health but also develops a load of cognitive development for them – and it bodes well for the school.” The BBC Somerset invites story ideas via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630, and can be followed on Facebook and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.