Private School News

Prior Park Students glitter at Palladian Ball

High heels, floor length dresses and tuxedos were the order of the day at the Prior Park College Palladian Ball.

The Ball is held annually in July to celebrate the achievements and bid farewell to the year’s upper sixth form. Students, parents and teachers dressed for the occasion and danced until dawn at the prestigious Assembly Rooms in Bath. Attendees included Professor Eatwell, Dean of Faculty, Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Bath and David Medlock, Pro-Chancellor of Bath University.

Prior Park College is the only school in Bath able to hold its Ball at the Assembly Rooms and always makes for a special evening.

The hundreds of pounds raised from the Ball raffle have been donated to the charity, ‘Crohn’s and Colitis UK’.

Prior Park College Headmaster, James Murphy-O’Connor, comments:

“The Palladian Ball is always such an enjoyable evening, with lots of laughs, good food and plenty of dancing. We are very privileged to have access to the beautiful Assembly Rooms for our special event. We wish the upper sixth students well in their future endeavours, we’re sure they will go far.”

KING’S BRUTON SCHOOL WELCOMES BACK SUCCESSFUL ALUMNI

On Monday 21st June, King’s School, Bruton held its annual careers convention. Alumni, parents and friends and many from leading blue chip companies such as Credit Suisse and JP Morgan, national firms such as von Essen Hotels and the charity Walk the Walk, as well as notable area businesses like Knight Frank, Earlcoate Construction and Wessex Grain, came back to Bruton to give seminars and careers advice to over 80 members of the School’s Lower Sixth Form just ahead of them making their applications to university. Students gained valuable insights into a wide range of professions including law, medicine, business management, teaching and engineering. Critical to the success of the event was the low average age of the seminar leaders: the School’s students found it all the easier to ask searching questions and explore their interests in particular professions further. All the speakers provided the Sixth Form with their email addresses and telephone numbers and have committed to providing them with on-going support.

KING’S BRUTON SCHOOL celebrates its 491st Birthday

Founded in 1519, King’s Bruton is one of the country’s oldest public schools and so it is with great pride that, every year, it celebrates its commemoration. Pupils, staff and governors process to church where they use the same order of service as followed by their predecessors centuries before. This year the preacher was The Rev. Jonathan Fletcher from Emmanuel Church, Wimbledon. After the service, the celebrations continued with drinks in the Memorial Hall and luncheon in the dining hall.

PRIOR PARK COLLEGE WINS TRAVEL PLAN AWARD

Prior Park College announces its win of the ‘School Travel Plan Award – June 2010’, demonstrating an acute awareness of the impact that school travel has on the environment.

The award, established by Bath & North East Somerset Council, aims to encourage schools in the Bath area to use more sustainable methods of transport such as walking, cycling and public transport.

To achieve the award, the College met with B&NES Council to discuss plans, supplied travel surveys to staff and pupils and submitted a travel plan document to the Council. As part of the College’s ‘Eco Prior’ initiative, teachers have been raising awareness of the plan in assemblies, encouraging pupils to use more eco-friendly methods of travel to and from school.

The College currently runs a total of eight bus services and has recently implemented a new evening service for its Trowbridge route next term.

Headmaster, James Murphy O’Connor, comments:
“Receiving the award is testament to the dedication that the College staff and pupils have devoted to this cause. However, the hard work doesn’t stop here. We are looking to the future and hope to continue raising awareness and encouraging even more pupils and parents to walk, cycle and subscribe to our bus services. We would like to take this opportunity to thank B&NES Council for their help in achieving this recognition.”

PRIOR PARK COLLEGE ARTIST RECOGNISED BY BATH SOCIETY OF ARTISTS

A former Prior Park student has had her paintings recognised by the prestigious Bath Society of Artists.

Two of Marina Gardiner’s paintings, called ‘Kleftiko, Milos’ and ‘Landscape From a Dream’ are currently on display at the society’s summer exhibition.

Marina comments:
“To have my paintings on display at the exhibition feels like a massive achievement. I have entered many competitions and this is the first time I’ve been noticed. I’ve just finished my first year at Edinburgh University, studying architecture. An education in art, such as one from Prior Park College, has allowed me to take an artistic approach in the presentation of my projects, using a wide range of materials and techniques to present proposals. During my time at the College, I felt constantly supported; the art department is a nurturing environment and enjoying art is central to producing good pieces.”

Prior Park Headteacher, James Murphy O’Connor, comments:
“Congratulations to Marina on some stunning pieces of work. To be picked by such a prestigious art society above many other talented individuals is extremely impressive. We look forward to hearing all about Marina’s future endeavours and wish her all the luck for her architecture degree. Onwards and upwards.”

The exhibition is being held at the Victoria Art Gallery in Bath until 19th June.

Contact us at Prior Park College on 01225 831000. To find out more about the College, visit www.priorparkschools.co.uk.

PRIOR PARK COLLEGE STUDENTS WIN YOUNG JOURNALIST AWARD

Two budding journalists from Prior Park have bagged the title of ‘Tamezin’s Young Journalist of the Year Award 2010’.

This year’s theme was ‘Inspirational Interviews’, for which winners Tony Heaton, 14, and Emma Clague, 15, interviewed an individual with a fascinating story and wrote it up into an article. Tony Heaton interviewed Polish war hero, Lieutenant Witold Brocki, whilst Emma Clague spoke to Polly Bates, a paediatric oncology doctor who treats under 18 leukaemia and cancer sufferers.

The students were picked out of a large number of young writers across Britain. Toby Heaton won First Prize in the junior category and Emma Clague won First Prize in the senior section. Both winners were awarded certificates, cash prizes and Emma Clague has also won a work experience opportunity for this summer.

This annual competition is run by Tamezin, a national lifestyle magazine and aims to encourage the young writers of tomorrow. The Award Ceremony took place earlier this month at the Kensington Close Hotel and was presented by Cassandra Jardine of the Daily Telegraph and freelance writer Greg Watts.

Headmaster, James Murphy O’Connor, comments:
“The students were encouraged to enter the competition by our Head of English, Nigel Tattersfield, as we want them to develop their existing writing skills. Emma and Toby chose and interviewed two inspirational people and told their story compassionately; congratulations to them for their efforts. We hear that Emma may be going to BBC News 24 for work experience this summer, which is a great foot in the door, and we look forward to hearing all about it.”
 

Trinity Guildhall exams are an outstanding success for King’s Bruton pupils.

On Friday 14th May 22 King’s Bruton pupils took part in 7 different categories of the Trinity Guildhall performance examinations, including Group Drama, Performing Text and, as a new discipline this year, Shakespeare. 50% of those students gained Distinctions, with UCAS points achieved for candidates in both 4th form and Lower Sixth. The range of material chosen and presented by the students included extracts from plays by Shaw, Sophocles and South African playwright Athol Fugard, a sonnet by the 16th century poet Michael Drayton, and an extract from President Obama’s Inauguration Speech.

The performances also involved required students to incorporate various skills such as commedia dell’Arte, improvisation, and showing their thorough knowledge of the text by answering questions in role. Congratulations to all involved.

PRIOR PARK COLLEGE ANNOUNCES YOUNG WRITER OF THE YEAR 2010

Prior Park College announces the winners of its Young Writer of the Year competition 2010. Over 200 pupils from 20 schools around Bath and Wiltshire have been battling it out for this coveted title.

After much deliberation, Harry Nickless from Springmead School and Mollie Fresle-McLaren from Norman Court Preparatory School were awarded the titles ‘Young Writer of the Year’. William Mallard from Chapmanslade Primary and Madeleine Meyjes from Prior Park College were runners up. The Best School Awards went to Corsham Primary School and St Francis School for overall success.

Book tokens, certificates and trophies were presented to winners and runners up at the Awards Ceremony held at Prior Park College on 4th May.

This year’s theme was ‘Peace’ and entries were judged by Prior Park’s Head of English, Nigel Tattersfield.

Headteacher, James Murphy O’Connor, who presented the awards, comments:

“Choosing the winners was a tough decision as we were inundated with inspiring pieces of writing. Well done to all who entered and warmest congratulations to the winners. Next year’s event is set to be just as hotly contested, with the word ‘Time’ as the theme.”

Contact us at Prior Park College on 01225 831000 or info@priorpark.co.uk. To find out more about the College, visit www.priorparkschools.co.uk.

Photo: Corsham Primary School with trophy

PRIOR PARK STUDENTS FACE THE DRAGON’S DEN

Prior Park College pupils have been pitching their ideas to the ‘Dragons’ at McCann Erickson in Bristol as part of a school media module.

Four groups of Year Nine students presented ideas for a new brand of cereal for children to a panel of Prior Park teachers and McCann Erickson professionals, including Managing Director Fraser Bradshaw. The students were judged on product originality, design and the quality of their pitch.

The winning group, with cereal ‘Pirate Plunder’, included Harriet Gallegos, 14, Thomas Morrison, 14, and Alex Clarke, 13. The name and slogan “Make every day one big adventure” made for an inspired combination – the very depiction of escapism.

The team worked hard on inventing the ‘lucky dip’ theme, where the consumer picks one of seven different cereals from the box at random. The judges were also impressed by the eye-catching packaging and the quality of educational activities and games included on the box. The children were also tasked with ensuring that the product was fun whilst also being nutritional.

McCann Erickson Managing Director, Fraser Bradshaw, comments:

“I was impressed by the slick nature of all the pitches and the mature manner in which the students presented their work. Some of the ideas I’m sure would stand up against the work of established professionals. Congratulations to the winners – we really enjoyed watching your pitch.”

Headmaster, James Murphy O’Connor, comments:

“This initiative has been a great opportunity for the children to gain some invaluable life skills and experience of the working world. Some of the students who took part have already enquired about work experience at McCann Erickson so this served as a good ‘foot in the door’ exercise for them. The students were placed in a real-life situation and were treated like adults; using their imagination and intellect to plan how to spend a £1million budget. As the scheme has been so successful and we have received lots of positive feedback from students, the English department hopes to run it on an annual basis.”

Contact us at Prior Park College on 01225 831000 or info@priorpark.co.uk. To find out more about the College, visit www.priorparkschools.co.uk.

TIM ABBEY WINS PRESTIGIOUS PAINTER-STAINERS AWARD FOR ART

Tim Abbey, a student in his final year at King’s School, Bruton, has won The Worshipful Company of Painter-Stainers’ School Prize in Art. Tim received his prize at the Company’s annual prize-giving in London on 23 April. His work, A Triptych of Rheanna, drew praise from many who attended the ceremony and accompanying exhibition, including the Company’s guest speaker, Iwona Blazwick, Director of The Whitechapel Gallery.

The Worshipful Company of Painter-Stainers makes awards to students at schools and art colleges across the country. King’s School, Bruton was the only senior school in the West Country to be recognised by the Company this year.

JAZZ HANDS AT PRIOR PARK

A Prior Park College pupil has been offered a place on the first ever National Youth Jazz Summer School. Louis Archer, in lower sixth form, who plays the tenor saxophone, will be attending the Summer School in August after wowing judges in a round of national auditions.

The school will draw together 30 of England’s most talented jazz musicians (aged 14 to 18), who will receive professional guidance from a team of internationally renowned jazz artists. Tutors include Issie Barratt, Alec Dankworth, Nic France, Mark Hodgson, John Hollenbeck, Mark Lockheart, Liam Noble, Jeremy Price, Nick Smart, Martin Speake, Rowland Sutherland and Mike Walker.

The week-long Summer School focuses on developing performance, improvisatory and interactive skills and participants will perform in a free concert to the public at the end of the week.

Headteacher, James Murphy O’Connor, comments:

“Louis has done extremely well to earn a place at the Summer School, having beaten off competition from many other hopefuls. We are sure he will receive the recognition he deserves and look forward to hearing all about the experience upon his return.”

PRIOR PARK STUDENT GOES FOR GOLD

Sporty Prior Park College student, Joss Bennett, has won three medals including gold in the Somerset County Championships. Joss achieved gold in the 200m IM, silver in the 200m breaststroke and bronze in the 400m IM.

Next Joss will represent Prior Park College in the biathlon at Millfield on 9 May and following that he will compete in the regional championships in June. If he finishes in the top six, he will qualify for a national competition later this year.

Headmaster, James Murphy O’Connor, comments:

“Warmest congratulations to Joss for his achievements so far. If he wins at Millfield and the regional championships, this will be the fourth consecutive year that Joss has made the nationals which is extremely impressive. We would like to wish Joss all the best for his future endeavours and look forward to hearing about the results.”

Joss comments:

“Winning at the Somerset County Championships is a good achievement for me but my ultimate goal is to get to the nationals. To make it to the final would be an amazing experience and my success at the Somerset County Championships has allowed me to build on my performance. My teachers at Prior Park have been really supportive and are always looking for ways to help me go the distance.”

Contact us at Prior Park College on 01225 831000 or info@priorpark.co.uk. To find out more about the College, visit www.priorparkschools.co.uk.

PRIOR PARK COLLEGE GOES ‘GREEN’ FOR EARTH DAY

Prior Park College students have dug out the gardening gloves and tools in support of Earth Day and its 40th anniversary this year.

Today’s ‘Green Day’ event has seen pupils planting seeds and vegetables, building bird boxes and paying £1 to wear an item of green clothing; the money raised will fund further sustainability initiatives. Students have made their own flower pots and planted everything from courgettes and tomatoes to sunflowers and nasturtiums.

Earth Day aims to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth’s environment whilst ‘Green Day’ is part of the eco-mission of the College’s EcoPrior conservation group. The group was formed in 2003 and promotes care of the environment by recycling, energy saving and ethical trading.

Headmaster, James Murphy O’Connor, comments:
“The staff and students at Prior Park College take sustainability seriously and that’s why we introduced EcoPrior and the Prior Park Ten Green Commandments. Planting seeds is a great way of helping the local wildlife, whilst improving the biodiversity of the local environment. These plants regenerate growth within the school grounds and will be enjoyed by many generations to come.

“With the money raised today, we hope to plant new trees, build a new bicycle shelter, a polytunnel and possibly even a beehive in the future. We believe that by supporting worthy causes such as Earth Day, we will get our community thinking about how we can help protect nature and the environment we live in.”

One student comments:
“It’s been a really fun day; it’s nice to make a difference.”

Contact us at Prior Park College on 01225 831000 or info@priorpark.co.uk. To find out more about the College, visit www.priorparkschools.co.uk.

King’s School Bruton – Gap Year programme in Sinai Peninsula

Six arduous days trekking deep in the heart of the Sinai Peninsula in the burning heat of the Desert of Sin; five nights in the open under the stars of a perfectly clear middle-eastern sky; a technicolour sunrise over the Red Sea and the western mountains witnessed from the very summit of Mt Sinai itself. All this and more was experienced by the members of the 2008/9 King’s Gap Year Programme in order to raise sponsorship money for the children of ICMC Orphanage in Tamil Nadhu, southern India, and to take themselves there as part of their ‘Gap Giving Back’.

Over 1000 orphans and needy children are cared for, clothed, fed, sheltered and educated in this extraordinary orphanage and its associated facilities. The team, now mid-way through its time in India, had the joy and pleasure of delivering personally a substantial cheque for over £16,100 to Rev Dr Jayaraj Krishnan, the founder and leader of ICMC, in the company of hundreds of the children they had come to serve. This considerable sum was the final fruits of the team’s Sinai exertions, now to be used to great effect for the good of so many. As important as the financial gift is the gift of love and care that each team member will offer during their term at the orphanage. As well as doing their best to teach English, help with medical care and simply play with and offer friendship to the children, the team has also managed to give fresh life and colour to much of the dormitory accommodation with vast quantities of paint and copious amounts of elbow grease. Rev Nigel Wilson-Brown, King’s Chaplain and organiser of the programme says, “The exciting King’s Gap Year Programme not only provides so much for so many needy children in India, but also teaches so much to the King’s Bruton boys and girls who commit to our ‘Gap Giving Back’”

Open on time!

King’s was not to be defeated by the weather and the school opened on time. 5th Form internal exams took place as planned and day pupils taking external exams were given the opportunity to stay free of charge in boarding houses. Headmaster, Ian Wilmshurst stated “I am very grateful to all academic and support staff who have worked extremely hard to keep the school functioning. Staff living outside Bruton also made very effort to get into school. The campus has looked picturesque but we all could do with some milder weather, particularly our hockey and netball players”.

Kingswood Prep School Christmas Fayre – another great success.

Despite the rain, nothing dampened the festive fun and cheer at the Christmas Fayre at our Prep School which was an amazing success.

Mr Simon Morris, Principal of the Kingswood Foundation, cut the ribbon and promptly at 2.00pm declared the event ‘open’. Children and parents rushed in to see all the exciting stalls and join in with all the fun and activities. Delicious hot dogs delighted children and mulled wine kept parents warm and everyone had a marvellous time!

Our special thanks to Norine and all the team from the ‘Friends of KPS’ for their magnificent efforts in putting on such an amazing event which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Prior Park pupils prepare to be Barbarians

Three talented boys from Prior Park Prep School in Cricklade have fought off fierce competition to be chosen to represent the South West in the Independent Prep Schools Barbarians Rugby championships.

Joe Beckett, Alex Hall and Kieran Kelly were selected from 40 boys from schools across the region. Prior Park Prep was one of only two schools represented to have three players chosen for the team. They will now meet a team from the South East in December at Millfield School in the first stage of the Barbarians competition.

Following the selection day, Kieran Kelly was named by selectors as ‘the player who stood out the most’ and was awarded with the match ball.

The three boys are all part of the Prior Park Prep School 1st XV who remain unbeaten this season. More details are available at www.priorparkschools.co.uk

Outstanding sporting achievements at Prior Park School

Prior Park Prep School pupils finished last term by triumphing in the sporting arena, with no less than five pupils becoming County players and five pupils receiving ‘Player of the Year’ awards from their sports clubs.

In hockey, having been selected for the Gloucestershire Squad, Yvie Seville and Lurenda Mudd were named ‘Players of the Year’ for the Under 11 and Under 13 teams by Cirencester Hockey Club. Year 7 pupil, Felicity Davies was selected for the Wiltshire County Squad.

Minety Rugby Club selected Tom Biggar as the Under 11 ‘Player of the Year’ while Prior Park Year 4 pupil, Daniel Lakenbrink took the Under 10’s ‘Player’s Player’ award at Wootton Bassett Rugby Club.

Four of the winning Cirencester Rugby Club’s Under 12 squad for this year’s County Cup also came from Prior Park with Kieran Kelly receiving the team’s ‘Player of the Year’ title for his outstanding play.

Out on the cricket field, talented Year 8 pupil Harry Brothwood has been selected for the Under 13 Wiltshire County Cricket Team with fellow pupil Max Dymoke joining him in the County Under 10 squad. Having recently gained experience with his team mates on the Prior Park Barbados sports tour, 12 year old Sam Jones is joining the Wiltshire North West District Squad.

There was also recognition in martial arts for 9 year old Elizabeth Dicken, who achieved her black belt in Tae Kwon Do.

“We are delighted that our pupils, encouraged by school coaching, go on to achieve such success in their local clubs and progress to County level,” said James Barton, Head of Boys’ Games. “Sport is an essential part of the Prior Park school day. We aim to give all children a chance to participate in teams and allow them to discover an activity that they enjoy, whether it is a traditional team sport or an individual pursuit such as martial arts, fencing or golf. Five children this year have also won sports scholarships to their senior schools.”

College Speech Day Farewell to Dr Giles Mercer

Longest serving senior school Catholic Headmaster retires after 24 years

Trustees, governors, parents, pupil, staff – old and new, gathered together at the College’s traditional Speech Day to bid farewell to Dr Giles Mercer, after 13 years as Headmaster at Prior Park.

The principal celebrant at Mass was the Rt Revd Christopher Jamison, Abbot of Worth Abbey.

Following refreshments in the magnificent grounds, guests, staff and pupils gathered in the giant marquee for the presentation of prizes by Sister Frances Orchard, Vicar General of the Congregation of Jesus. The Headmaster spoke warmly of his time at the College. The mood was emotional at times, euphoric at others, and a true reflection of the huge respect that staff, pupils and parents felt for Giles Mercer. The Head Boy and Head Girl paid tribute to an exceptional Headmaster who knows everyone in the school, not just by name. Standing ovations were the order of the day.

Sister Jane Livesey, Chair of Governors commented “It has been a fantastic and memorable Speech Day and a very fitting one to mark the departure of such a distinguished Head. Giles has been a hugely respected as well as a popular Headmaster and this has been endorsed not only by the enormous attendance today, including many former pupils, but also by his bulging social diary this summer term, when he has been guest of honour at numerous receptions and dinners in his honour. Everyone, from past and present parents and pupils to educational bodies and individuals wanted to express their sincere thanks and best wishes for his retirement in Bath.”

Mr Richard Wells, Head of Science, one of the longest serving members of staff at the College, commented “Prior Park College is fantastic place to learn, with its magnificent grounds and history. Giles has contributed much to the school, with his remarkable thoroughness, his true integrity and genuine support to ALL staff. ”

Giles Mercer will hand over the custodianship of the College to Mr James Murphy O’Connor, who explained “I have been working closely with Giles and meeting with the staff at the College in the last few months to ensure a smooth transition. Pupil numbers are at their highest ever, with outstanding results achieved year on year, and this is due to the dedication of Giles and his team. I know that he will be greatly missed and I look forward to carrying on his work.”

Giles Mercer said “I became a teacher nearly 40 years ago because of my fundamental interest in teaching young people and in learning from them. This has remained my central focus and the rewards of seeing young people mature, find direction and a sense of community are deep, lasting and immeasurable. I have always believed that a school is judged, above all, by the quality of its community life, by the values which are practised by its members, and by the attitudes and principles of its leavers. In this essential respect we can at Prior Park take great pride, without ever slipping into easy self-congratulation. We believe that each member of the College has an equal right to happiness, to the range of our opportunities (ever widening) and to a steady encouragement to meet the highest goals which he or she sets.”

He added “After all my years at Prior, I have countless teaching and support staff to thank for their unstinting hard work and dedication to encouraging our pupils to develop and blossom. And of course, I owe an immeasurable debt to my wife, Caroline, without her support I doubt I would have lasted 24 hours as a head, let alone 24 years! I am delighted that the Governors have appointed James Murphy-O’Connor as my successor. I wish him, his family and the College every possible success in the next phase of development. Everyone has been so kind and supportive to Caroline and myself, through what has been, for us, a most happy period in this thriving community and beautiful place. “

NEW BILLY JOINS CAST OF INTERNATIONAL SMASH-HIT

B I L L Y E L L I O T T H E M U S I C A L
CELEBRATES FOURTH BIRTHDAY IN LONDON

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL RECEIVES 15 TONY AWARD NOMINATIONS AND WINS NEW YORK DRAMA CRITICS; CIRCLE BEST MUSICAL AWARD

On 12 May 2009, as Billy Elliot the Musical celebrates its fourth birthday and its 1700th performance at the Victoria Palace Theatre in the West End, 12 year old Oliver Gardner from Bath will join the London cast making him the thirty-second boy to play the iconic role of Billy worldwide, first performed by Jamie Bell in the original film. Billy Elliot the Musical, which has now played to over 3.3 million people worldwide since its world premiere four years ago, releases thousands of new tickets for sale this week for bookings up to 3 April 2010.

Today in New York it was announced that Billy Elliot the Musical has received 15 Tony Awards nominations, including Best Actor for David Alvarez, Trent Kowalik and Kiril Kulish, the original Broadway Billys who made their stage debut a year ago in a surprise performance at the London production’s third birthday, as well as Best Musical, Best Score, Best Book, Best Director, Best Choreography and Best Featured actress in a Musical for Haydn Gwynne who originated the role of Mrs Wilkinson on stage in London. This year’s Tony Award winners will be announced on 7 June. Earlier this week it was announced that Billy Elliot the Musical has won the 2009 New York Drama Critics’ Circle Best Musical Award.

The international smash-hit production directed by Stephen Daldry with a score by Elton John, has award-winning choreography by Peter Darling, designs by Ian MacNeil, sound by Paul Arditti and lighting by Rick Fisher. Billy Elliot the Musical is presented in London by Universal Pictures Stage Productions, Working Title Films and Old Vic Productions in association with Tiger Aspect. Billy Elliot the Musical, based on the Universal Pictures/Studio Canal film, opened on Broadway at the Imperial Theatre in November 2008 and is also playing at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne, following a successful Sydney season at The Capitol Theatre.

Set in the North East, Billy Elliot the Musical is a funny, heart-warming and feel-good celebration of one young boy’s dreams. This new staging of Billy Elliot the Musical is an adaptation of one of the most adored British films of the last decade which broke box office records across the world and was nominated for 3 Oscars and 13 BAFTA Awards.

Oliver Gardner
“My name is Ollie and I am 12 years old and I live in Bath with my Mum, Dad and sister Stanya as well as our dog Salty and two cats Gus and Bella. My family are really musical and I started dancing when I was 5 years old, learning ballet, tap and modern at Dorothy Coleborn School of Dancing. When I was 9 years old I became a Junior Associate of the Royal Ballet School and later a Mid Associate. After many months of training in London, I was thrilled when I found out I would be playing my dream role of Billy Elliot in the West End. The training has been hard work but all the teachers made it fun and I love being part of such a great Company. I want to thank my family for always supporting and believing in me, and all my teachers, especially Karen, Damian, Nick, Lee and David. Cheers to all my great mates at Kingswood School – I can’t wait for you all to come and see me in the show!”

Oliver Gardner joins Tom Holland (12 years old from Kingston-upon-Thames), Tanner Pflueger (12 years old from Norfolk, Nebraska), Fox Jackson-Keen (13 years old from Hornsey, London) and Bradley Wilson (12 years old from Doncaster) who alternate the title role of Billy alongside principal cast members Kate Graham (Mrs Wilkinson), Joe Caffrey (Dad), Craig Gallivan (Tony), Ann Emery (Grandma), Trevor Fox (George), Sean Kingsley (Mr Braithwaite), Stephanie Putson (Dead Mum) and Barnaby Meredith (Older Billy).

Joining the Company in June are 12 year old Connor Doyle from Walsall and 12 year old Jake Pratt originally from Scarborough, now living in Middlesex, who will alternate the role of Billy’s best friend Michael alongside George Maycock (11 years old from Solihull). Ten year old Francesca Mango from Northumberland and 11 year old Fleur Houdijk from Hartlepool join the company to play Debbie, alongside Annabelle Crosby-Stewart (11 years old from Darlington).