Nelson Primary School hits a winning note

Nelson Primary School in East Ham has won a national award, taking the Outstanding School Music Department trophy at the recent Music and Drama Education Awards.

The judges were impressed by the number of musical opportunities available and by the different ways that children can get involved. They highlighted the progression routes available and said the department is an “outstanding example of committed individuals and supportive senior leadership working together to achieve both musical and wider outcomes

“Being named the country’s most outstanding school music department is a fantastic achievement,” said Fiona Cullen, Head Teacher. “It recognises the commitment and passion of all our staff, but also reflects the enthusiasm, hard work and desire to learn, that we see every day in all our pupils. We are absolutely thrilled, and look forward to building on this success, helping our children achieve their musical ambitions in the months and years ahead.

“Success at this level can only be achieved with great partnerships. The school has worked closely with Newham Council’s ground-breaking Music Enrichment Scheme for Schools and with Newham Music, the award-winning Music Education Hub for the borough.”

Nelson Primary is one of 97 Newham schools receiving music activity funding through Newham Council’s Enrichment School Music Grants which enable Newham’s schools to design music activities for 25,000 Newham pupils from nursery to sixth form this academic year.

Deafroots commissioned Co-Creative Connection artist Rose Hill who worked with over a 100 people to create the murals.

Rose Hill said: “The installations embody the spirit of Newham’s diverse and united community - a true celebration of their creativity, togetherness, and diversity.”

A film developed by Co-Creative Connection, containing footage from the various workshops, the installation process and the final unveiling of the murals, was shown at the Community Assembly meeting in Stratford Library on 14 March.