Putting together a school production is no easy feat, especially when the cast consists of young students who are still learning the ropes of stage performance. However, Brentford School for Girls’ production of ‘Little Mermaid Junior’ was a resounding success.

The Head of Arts, Kirsty Marsh, and her team worked tirelessly in putting together this production. Juggling their regular teaching duties with regular rehearsals, together with planning, coordinating and preparing for the show itself was no easy task. However, they did it all with enthusiasm, ensuring that every student involved felt supported and encouraged throughout the process.

However, it is the students themselves who were the integral part of making this production such a success. They gave it their absolute all - practising after school and on weekends - and overcome any fear they may have had about performing on stage. It was truly heartwarming to see them shine during their big moment in the spotlight. Brentford School for Girls ensure that all year groups are represented in their annual productions with Year 7s auditioning in September when they join the school alongside other students.

Behind the scenes, other school staff members also play a crucial role in making the production a success. Caretakers, admin staff and teaching assistants and support staff all volunteer to help with the set up the show with everyone in the Brentford School for Girls community pitching in to ensure that everything ran smoothly.

Every year, the school welcomes pupils from local primary schools to watch special matinee viewings of their school production. This year the school welcomed Springwell, Ivybridge, Beavers, Smallberry Green, The Marlborough, St Paul's and Worple making it over 1,000 people watching the performances in total.

The feedback from the show was overwhelmingly positive - parents were thrilled at how well their children had done on stage whilst pupils were inspired by seeing what their peers could achieve.

One parent commented: ‘‘Thank you again for putting on such a wonderful show. Our girls have really enjoyed being part of such a professional and technically challenging production. I was privileged to get a little look behind the scenes, and was so impressed at all the girls’ talents - on stage and off - and their collective motivation. The teaching staff are so well loved and I can see why."

It’s clear that this production not only provided a platform for students to showcase their talents, but also fostered a sense of community and teamwork amongst everyone involved. The enthusiasm and dedication displayed by all those who participated is a true testament to the power of the arts in bringing people together.

The school has great academic success. However, supporting and developing the arts with Brentford School for Girls students is something that Ms Marsh and her team are keen to foster. The success of this school production and the team effort shown indicates that the whole school is supportive too.