The ‘Singing Children of Africa’ have visited Exmouth Community College (ECC) this term to take part in an exciting performance with ECC students. The group visited the college as part of their national tour. 

The ‘Singing Children of Africa’ began in 2006 when the founder of the charity Educate the Kids formed a group of 24 pupils from Kenya for a UK tour. The children’s energy, songs and dance quickly won over audiences, raising enough to build an orphanage and later support new school facilities. 

Over the years, the tours have given hundreds of children life-changing experiences, boosting confidence, cultural awareness and education. Today, the group continues to inspire with performances that celebrate resilience, joy and the power of education.

Through her close links with the charity, Mrs Phillips, the Head of Expressive Arts at ECC arranged for the visitors to take part in dance and drama workshops with students from the college. In addition, the choir performed alongside students from ECC in a range of music and dance pieces in an uplifting evening event.

All proceeds from the joint performances, which raised over £1k went to Educate the Kids to help fund children from the most deprived areas near Mombasa in Kenya to attend school. 

At Exmouth Community College, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust,  the Music Department offers students a vibrant, creative environment led by a team of active professional musicians. Based in purpose-built facilities with recording studios, Mac suites, classrooms and practice rooms, the department provides a curriculum that develops performance, composition, listening and cultural understanding across a wide range of styles. 

Alongside lessons, students can take part in a rich programme of extra-curricular opportunities, from ensembles and public performances to biennial tours and full-scale musical productions, all designed to inspire a love of music and the joy of performing in the community.

Tom Inman, Headteacher at Exmouth Community College said: “It was a privilege to welcome the ‘Singing Children of Africa’ to our college. The energy, joy and talent they shared with our students was truly inspiring, and the workshops and joint performance created a memorable experience for everyone involved. This event captured the power of music and dance to connect cultures and communities, and we are proud that our students had the opportunity to be a part of it.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Multi-Academy Trust said:“At the Ted Wragg Trust, we believe education should broaden horizons and build connections across the world. The visit from the ‘Singing Children of Africa’ gave our students the chance to learn, perform and celebrate alongside an incredible group of young people. The funds raised will make a real difference in the lives of children in Kenya, and this partnership demonstrates the true impact of education, creativity and community coming together.”