Journey’s End – Year 8 Pod Class recordings

9th April 2025Sarah Hall

     

Welcome to this exciting new project  to showcase the Power of the Voice. 

In the Autumn Term Year 8 students studied the World War 1 play ‘Journey’s End’ by R.C Sherriff.  Here you can listen to the first two dramatic readings which cover  key moments, early  in the play. This Pod Class provides a platform for parents and carers to ‘step into the classroom’ and share some of the recent English learning experiences our pupils have been involved in. We hope you enjoy it! Look out for more scenes, which will be released in the Summer Term.

Tina Wilkinson (English Department)

Year 8 Pod Class

 

 

Cheviot Ceilidh Brings Music, Dance and Community Spirit to Life

7th April 2025Sarah Hall

On the evening of Friday 4th April, King Edward VI High School came alive with the sounds of traditional music and dancing as it hosted the much-anticipated Cheviot Ceilidh. The event brought together families, friends and music lovers for a night of fun.

The ceilidh featured a collaboration between the Newminster and Chantry Ceilidh Band, led by Mrs Hedley from Music Partnership North, and the school’s very own King Edward VI Ceilidh Band. 

Well-known local folk musician Alistair Anderson served as the dance caller for the night, expertly guiding dancers through a variety of traditional ceilidh steps. 

The event was organised by Heather Harrison from KEVI, whose efforts ensured a smooth and enjoyable evening for all. A big thank you goes to Heather for bringing everything together so well.

What truly made the evening special was the incredible turnout and the joyful atmosphere. People of all ages, from young children to grandparents, came together on the dance floor. The Cheviot Ceilidh was more than just a musical event; it was a celebration of community, collaboration and the joy of shared experience. 

Here’s hoping the Cheviot Ceilidh becomes a cherished tradition for years to come!

 

Morpeth Schools’ Choir Performance for Comic Relief 2025

24th March 2025Jump Marketing

We are proud to have hosted a large event for Morpeth schools to participate in to raise money for Comic Relief Red Nose Day, 2025.

The production led by Ms Jones, Curriculum Leader of the Creative Arts at Newminster Middle School, brought 9 schools together from the Morpeth area for a performance of singing, dancing and percussion to the song ‘Gold’ by The Wanted.

All schools were instructed to learn the songs individually, and then they came together on a beautiful day at Chantry Middle School to perform. On the performance day, filming took place and the Mayor of Morpeth, Councillor Betty Bawn paid a visit!

Students were enthusiastic and understood the significance behind the activity, one student said, “We are doing something for the community and it might change the world.” Another student said, “I am very proud of all my classmates.”

Ms Jones has said, “I just loved seeing all the children happen and smiling. Music is a wonderful thing that brings us all together, and that she is “very humbled by everyone coming together.”

This truly is a wonderful display of community! A big thanks to all schools that participated, Abbeyfields First School, Morpeth First School, Cambo First School, Stannington First School, Stobhillgate First School, St Robert’s First School, Tritlington C of E First School, and of course, Chantry Middle School and Newminster Middle School.

A Stunning Performance at Durham Cathedral: Our Choir Shines

19th February 2025Sarah Hall
A small but mighty choir from our schools recently had the incredible opportunity to compete in the North East Primary Choir of the Year at the magnificent Durham Cathedral. Representing us with pride, talent, and professionalism, the students delivered a fabulous a cappella performance of Lean on Me.

Their performance achieved outstanding feedback from the judges, who were highly impressed with their confidence. While the judges ultimately awarded the top spot to another school, we couldn’t be prouder of our young singers.

Beyond their musical excellence, the choir members were a true credit to both schools, displaying eexcellent behaviour, teamwork and enthusiasm throughout the event. 

A huge congratulations to our talented choir – we couldn’t be prouder of your success!

SCHOOL CLOSURE 24TH JANUARY 2025

24th January 2025Sarah Hall
The difficult decision has been made to close the school today. This is due to a change in the forecast overnight with 80mph winds now being forecast for lunchtime / afternoon rather than later in the day. The decision has been made on the grounds of health and safety. Where possible work will be posted on google classroom for lessons being taught today – please be aware that this may not be possible for all subjects (e.g.practical lessons). 
 
Thank you for your understanding in this matter. School will resume as normal on Monday 27th January. 
 

Family Hubs

17th December 2024Sarah Hall

 

 

 

 

 

Carols in the Quad: Year 5 Spread Christmas Cheer

13th December 2024Sarah Hall

On Wednesday 11th December 2024, the quad at Newminster was transformed into a magical festive stage as Year 5 students delivered a heartwarming outdoor concert under the stars. Families gathered to enjoy the holiday spirit with hot drinks and mince pies, surrounded by twinkling Christmas lights strung through the trees.

The students showcased their vocal talents with a repertoire of beloved Christmas classics, including “Last Christmas,” “Ding Dong Merrily on High,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” “Underneath the Tree,” “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” and a lively action packed rendition of “The 12 Days of Christmas.” The performances were met with enthusiastic applause!

Adding to the festivities, the event also celebrated the winners of the Year 5 Christmas poster competition. Congratulations to the four pupils whose creative designs stood out and added an extra touch of Christmas cheer to the evening.

The audience was full of praise for the event, with parents and families sharing their heartfelt reactions. “It was lovely,” one parent remarked. “I spoke to lots of parents who thought it was fabulous.” Another added, “It was so lovely. Thank you for organising something so wonderful.”

Well done Year 5!

 

 

 

 

 

Newminster and Chantry Choir Win Northumberland Christmas Choir Competition

13th December 2024Sarah Hall
On Monday, 9th December 2024, the Newminster and Chantry Choir took part in the Northumberland Christmas Choir Competition, hosted by Music Partnership North at St. James’ Church, Morpeth. Competing against four other schools, the choir delivered a memorable performance and emerged as the winners of the event.

The competition began with a filmed first round, where schools submitted their entries for consideration. From these submissions, five schools were invited to perform live in the finals. Representing Newminster and Chantry Middle Schools, the choir consisted of around 140 pupils.

The event began with Gareth Miller from Music Partnership North Newcastle, who judged the competition, leading a warm-up session for all the choirs and teaching them a Christmas song to sing together as the opening of the event. This collaborative start set a festive tone for the performances to come.

The Newminster and Chantry Choir performed ‘O Holy Night‘ arranged and conducted by Naomi Hughes, showcasing well-rehearsed harmonies that filled the church with a rich and resonant sound. Gareth Miller praised their thoughtful use of dynamics throughout the piece, starting softly and building to a powerful finish. “A superb and very deserving win,” he remarked. “Congratulations—they are amazing.”

Audience members were equally impressed, with one commenting, “A beautiful performance.”

As winners of the competition, the Newminster and Chantry Choir have been invited to represent Northumberland at the Durham Choir Festival in February 2025, where they will perform at Durham Cathedral. For this special event, the choir plans to sing Lean on Me.

This achievement reflects the commitment of the pupils and the support of their schools in fostering a love of music. The choir is now looking forward to preparing for the next stage of their musical journey.