BGT choirmaster works with Year 6 on leavers' song

Year 6 pupils prepared for their end-of-year assembly with the support of a professional vocal coach.

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 will perform a rendition of Bruno Mars' Count on Me at their leavers' service next week.

Marley, one of the Year 6 students, said: "I'm finding it very enjoyable and very fun. I've never done anything like this. I've never even had a proper microphone in my hand."

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 6 cohort prepared to move on to secondary school.

Jo Roberts, deputy headteacher and Year 6 teacher, said: "It works really well. The message is about how they can still count on each other, even though they'll be going their separate ways.

"The children have really enjoyed working with Gareth; it's been a special experience."

The rehearsals, held at Fit Dog Studios in Gayton, Northamptonshire, offered pupils the chance to step out of the classroom and into a professional recording space – many for the first time.

Gareth Fuller said: "[The children are] really, really good. It's so nice for them to experience something like this before heading into the big world of secondary school."

Pupil Amelie added: "I'm quite confident now – Gareth has taught us new ways to sing. I think it will be pretty amazing once we get on that stage."

The leavers' performance is set to take place next week.

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