The annual Smithdon High School Christmas Concert saw students from Years 7 to 11 perform to an audience of around 150 people, with acts including the school’s Year 8 band, as well as our Choir.

“We had about 45 students involved in the performance, including helping with backstage, front-of-house, and performing,” said Smithdon Music Teacher Andrea Barnes, who organised the event.

“We had a Year 8 student who had not sung at our shows, who got the entire crowd clapping with his performance of ‘Merry Christmas’. Our band The Unknown is always a highlight, along with the cast coming out to sing ‘Merry Christmas Everyone’ by Shakin’ Stevens.

“The students thought it was amazing. They were all incredibly supportive of each other, encouraging and cheering each other on. They loved getting to perform on the stage with the lights. They were so happy with how many people came from the community to support them.”

“All of the feedback I received was incredibly positive,” she continued. “Many people couldn’t believe how talented our students were and what they were capable of.

“I could not have been prouder. It takes so much courage to actually get on stage and perform, and every one of them got up there and did it with confidence.

“These events are important to show our community all that we offer here at Smithdon, and they are important to give our students the opportunity to develop their confidence and performance skills, as well as making really positive school memories.”

Smithdon, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, also staged its annual musical this month – a sell-out production of family favourite Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

“It was fantastic to see students getting involved, no matter the stage of their mystical journey, and confidently performing to the audience – from those who’ve had just a few weeks of lessons to those seasoned performers at our shows,” added our Headteacher, Amanda Gibbins.

“It was a real delight, and I am already looking forward to our Spring concert to see their progression.”