Year six leavers perform with BGT choirmaster

Year six pupils who performed at their end-of-year assembly with the support of a professional vocal coach have been "inspired beyond belief", their head teacher said.

The children at Hackleton Primary School in Northampton had been working with Gareth Fuller, a choir director known for his appearance on Britain's Got Talent and involvement in Northants Sings Out.

The pupils performed a rendition of Bruno Mars' Count on Me at their leavers' service on Tuesday.

Head teacher Sally Gillam said the school was "so grateful" to Mr Fuller "for the opportunity he's given these children".

She said the pupils had worked to "achieve something beyond their wildest dreams" while also helping them learn to "practice and persevere".

Ms Gillam added that the confidence of performing had given the children "skills that will last a lifetime".

The leavers' song had become a tradition at Hackleton Primary, with pupils selecting a track that reflected their shared memories and friendships.

Teachers said this year's song captured the spirit of support and togetherness as the year six cohort prepared to move on to secondary school.

Mr Fuller said he was "really influenced" by the music teachers he had and that he wanted to give something back.

"Music is so important in schools, it should really be pushed," he said.

Ahead of the performance in front of parents and other students, the young singers took part in rehearsals, held at Fit Dog Studios in Gayton, Northamptonshire, which offered pupils the chance to step out of the classroom and into a professional recording space – many for the first time.

Alex, 11, said it was "crazy, amazing experience", despite initially feeling intimidated by working with Mr Fuller.

"He's really nice," said Alex. "He taught us so many different ways to sing... to try different pitches, it was great."

Marley, also 11, said "I'm very happy. When we've been to the recording studio, it's been an amazing experience."

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