THE talented youngsters at one school have helped ensure it's position on the shortlist for a prestigious award.

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate in Thorpe Underwood is a finalist in in the Independent School Association’s (ISA) Awards for 2021 for Excellence and Innovation in the Performing Arts.

The ISA Awards is an annual event that celebrates success and recognises the breadth of quality and provision in independent education across the country. The winners will be revealed at an Awards Ceremony as part of the ISA Autumn Study Conference in November.

Judges were looking for evidence of going the extra mile in terms of performing arts provision and achievement, including innovative teaching techniques, or an offering of extraordinary opportunities for all pupils, with clear evidence of how this has helped to enhance their learning. This category covers dance, drama, instrumental music and choral singing.

Dan Machin, acting principal, said: "This is absolutely fantastic news and we’re delighted that the innovation and excellence of our provision in Performing Arts has been recognised in these awards. The challenges of remote teaching and student bubbles over the past year on a subject such as Performing Arts cannot be underestimated, and both our students and staff have shown incredible resilience and determination. A huge well done to everyone."