RAPS : United In Song On A Special Night

They were part of the national Young Voices 2026 community singing festival that features thousands of children from around the UK joining together in the spirit of song.

The RAPS team had rehearsed the varying range of set songs for the show for many weeks and on their big night on Monday, February 23, they were in fine form.

As part of the largest youth choir in the world of more than 8,200 performers on the night, the pupils sang with energy and confidence in an electrifying performance. The atmosphere was incredible, and the children proudly represented their school on a world-class stage.

Singers from Years 3-6, led by the school’s Wellbeing Lead Victoria Elliott and Admissions and Attendance Officer Gemma Moore, practised the selected songs for nearly two terms in their after-school Young Voices Choir. Assistant Head of School Louise Chidwick-Day said "It was a very long day, but the children’s energy, enthusiasm and huge smiles said it all, they loved every second.

“We are so proud of each and every one of them for their hard work, resilience and brilliant behaviour, they are a credit to the school. What a memory to treasure.

“Opportunities like this open children's eyes to what is possible and, who knows, one day it might be a pupil from RAPS performing on stage at the O2.”.

Among the RAPS friends and family at the show was guide dog Charlie who accompanied the mum of pupil Kira – he was perfectly behaved throughout.

Head of School Nick Budge said the show was inspirational for pupils : “We joined with thousands of children from across the country as one large choir to perform medleys spanning a range of genres.

“This is a brilliant occasion. Young Voices encourages schools to unite in song and every concert creates hundreds of special memories.

“It was a truly enriching experience for our pupils to perform at such a famous arena and be part of something so vibrant and lively with a fabulous atmosphere, dazzling light show and fantastic guest star performances.

“To be united in song is a powerful experience; with more than 8,000 other young singers performing together it is phenomenal.”

Young Voices holds a series of concerts at venues across the nation at large arenas during February.

Ramsgate Arts Primary is part of the Viking Academy Trust together with Upton Juniors, Broadstairs, and Chilton Primary, Ramsgate.

For more information contact Nick Budge on 01843 582847.