This week started with two teacher training days - a time for us as educators to step back, challenge our thinking, and expand our understanding of how children learn. Usually, these sessions kick off with an icebreaker: maybe a guest speaker or a team-building activity. This year, though, things were a bit different.

Imagine it: the first day back after a six-week break, Monday morning, 8:30 a.m. What’s the last thing you’d expect to be doing? Probably communal singing - but that’s exactly what we did.

Over the summer holidays, I was tasked with creating and leading a 15-minute workshop on getting 130 reluctant, self-proclaimed "non-singers" to sing together… as a choir.  No small feat. As I stood in front of the room and saw the initial groans ripple across the staff - who were from both Mayflower and Ford - I knew I was about to face one of my toughest ‘gigs’ to date. But despite the palpable discomfort in the room, I held onto my belief in the power of singing. Once they got into it, I was certain they’d not only enjoy themselves but also gain real value from the experience.

Yesterday, it was our great pleasure to once again take part in the Plymouth Big Sing, an event dedicated to bringing schools together to connect through the joy of song.

On the evening of Wednesday, June 19th, the MCA Earlybirds choir performed at the prestigious Plymouth Youth Awards, held at the Crowne Plaza, Plymouth. 

Over the past nine months, seven of our KS2 pupils have embarked on an exciting musical journey, learning to play the clarinet. Every Wednesday after school, these dedicated students have gathered for group instrumental tuition, showing remarkable commitment by also practising at home.

At the start of this academic year, I embarked on a unique challenge and opportunity that I simply couldn’t refuse. Last June, while attending a youth music festival with my vocal group, organised by my friend and SEND music expert Stuart Penman, I was approached by Fiona Pendriegh, the head of Plymouth Youth Music Service. Fiona had noticed my passion for encouraging children to sing and wondered if this enthusiasm could help get more boys singing in our city. The challenge was set.

This May, the much-anticipated Celebration of Disney Concert took place, bringing together the enchanting melodies of Disney with the harmonious voices of the North Prospect Community Choir (NPCC). Held in the school hall, the event featured memorable performances by the MCA Children's Choir, the Earlybirds, and the NPCC, culminating in a night of music, joy, and community spirit.