"Smiles, applause, and festive spirit": South Ribble school kids get in the festive mood

In Leyland, more than 35 students from Wellfield Academy have wowed parents and locals with a performance of ‘Elf The Musical Jr’.

Last week, students performed the musical to an audience of over 150 parents and locals, whilst this week they performered for the whole school.

Based on the beloved holiday film, the hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity.

As well as students taking part in the musical itself, students also controlled special effects including the lighting and sound.

Parents and pupils alike described the performance as the perfect display of festive spirit at Christmas time, with equal doses of humour and meaning.

Jamie Lewis, Headteacher at Wellfield Academy, commented: “As ever, we’re very proud of our pupils for their performance in the Christmas musical last week.

“As well as some excellent performances, the students’ management of lighting, special effects and sound showed real skill.

“We look forward to welcoming parents and the community back into school in the future.”

Also in Leyland, children at Partou Stonehouse Nursery and Pre-school in Leyland took part in a host of Christmas-themed activities to support their learning and wellbeing – including a visit from the big man himself!

Rebecca Bradbury, Partou Stonehouse Deputy Manager, said: “Families were invited to attend a 'sprinkle of magic' stay and play, allowing them to engage in their children's learning experiences.

“We had a Christmas dinner day which brought the children and team members together to celebrate the festive season.

“The team made a donation tree to enable families to help a local children’s charity we were supporting and thanked everyone who contributed.

“The children were especially delighted by a visit from Santa Claus himself, who gave each child a book to promote their love of reading. The older children enjoyed asking him lots of questions and somehow Santa knew all of the answers!

“It was the perfect build up to Christmas with learning a constant theme.”

Set in a former school building, Partou Stonehouse features spacious playrooms together with one of the largest outdoor nursery activity areas in the North West.

It is also a nature-inspired nursery which has created a home-from-home experience to support children’s development and growth whilst encouraging them to have fun and be curious about the world around them.

Samantha Rhodes, Partou Managing Director, said:“The team has done a wonderful job in skilfully funnelling pre-Christmas excitement at the nursery into a month of themed activities which assist the children on their learning journey.

“Partou Stonehouse is a vibrant place to be for the children, families and team members.”

Over in Penworhtam, thirty talented musicians from Penwortham Girls’ High School brought festive cheer to the local community across the term by taking part in a joyful Festive Roadshow, visiting Penwortham Primary School, Tesco, and Cop Lane C E Primary School.

The students showcased a wide range of musical talent, performing as part of the school orchestra, woodwind ensemble, and string group.

The programme was further enriched by several superb solo performances, giving audiences the chance to enjoy both ensemble and individual musicianship.

A school spokerson said: “Each venue was filled with a wonderful seasonal atmosphere, and the performances were warmly received by pupils, staff, shoppers, and members of the public alike. Smiles, applause, and festive spirit followed the musicians throughout the day.

“The students were a credit to the school, performing with enthusiasm, professionalism, and confidence. There were many compliments from audience members, praising both the high standard of music and the positive energy the performers brought with them.

“The Festive Roadshow was a thoroughly enjoyable experience for everyone involved and a fantastic way for Penwortham Girls’ High School to share music and seasonal goodwill with the wider community.”

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