Acton Primary School pupils shine in Young Voices Choir concert at O2 Arena in London

Suffolk schoolchildren added their voices to a choir of thousands of pupils, which took centre stage at one of the world’s most famous entertainment venues this week.

The Young Voices Choir welcomed capacity crowds to the 20,000-seat O2 Arena in London, as they showcased an array of song and dance routines on Monday night.

Performed in front of an audience of the children’s family and friends, the concert also featured a special guest performance from Heather Small, lead singer of pop band M People, who performed the hit song Proud with the pupils.

The ensemble consisted of youngsters from more than 4,000 registered schools around the UK, including 20 children representing Acton Primary School, drawn from Years 3 to 6.

Their visit to the capital city for the event was made possible by grant funding from Arts Society Stour Valley, which covered the transport costs and branded Young Voices Choir T-shirts for each participant.

Jonathan Gray, headteacher at Acton Primary School in Lambert Drive, said: “It’s been a real delight to hear all of our choir members practicing the many songs for the show over recent months.

“To see the children representing our school at the O2 in London is something I’m very proud of indeed.

“The Young Voices choir is musical education on a massive scale and is something that all of our students will remember for a long time.

“I would like to thank teacher Katy Hammond, who has led the choir project from the start, the other staff members who supported the children’s trip on the day, and also the Arts Society Stour Valley for providing the financial grant.

“This meant we could organise transportation to and from the school, plus for each child to receive a Young Voices T-shirt to wear as part of the show.

“It has been a fantastic learning experience for all.”