Andrew Cliffe with Cameron and MP Timpson
Brine Leas School in Nantwich was chosen to host David Cameron and Gary Barlow’s singing contest announcement because of its excellent music reputation, it emerged today.
Headteacher Andrew Cliffe revealed to Nantwichnews how the amazing day all came about.
And he told how Take That star Barlow even asked for more volume as he performed the huge hit The Greatest Day with delighted Brine Leas pupils.
Brine Leas runs an Inter House music competition every year with around 300 students involved.
Most musical genres are covered - from rock bands to string quartets, to choirs and guitar ensembles.
Mr Cliffe said: “We were told the Conservatives chose Brine Leas to host the announcement due to the excellent reputation it has for music.
“The planning for the event proved interesting with visits from Special Branch, hovering helicopters and a bevy of newscasters.
“The music section was changed a few times before we were finally given a clear format and a day to prepare to support Gary Barlow.
“I am very grateful to Miss Hazeldine and Mr Forshaw for all the work they did with a very young group of musicians.
“Gary was very generous with his support to all the children who performed and it was certainly a day that the school will never forget.
“Gary insisted on turning the volume up for the music and choral accompaniment. He even turned to the drummer, Ashley Snook, and issued the immortal line, ‘Count us in Ash.’
“We all need inspiration and my aim as a headteacher is to make sure that all children aspire to be the very best that they can be.
“To have one political party into school could be viewed as being politically biased yet the students have experienced seeing someone who operates right at the very top of their profession as well as the media circus that surrounds them.”
Mr Cliffe said the visit has also inspired many students who want to study politics in the new sixth form centre which opens this September.
“Given the nature of the questions the students asked, which were not prepared, it seems an interest was being sparked in politics rather than a party.
“In addition they have had a personal audience with a major pop star who spoke genuinely and supportively about making music.
“I have never received so much positive feedback. I am very proud of Brine Leas School and the opportunity to share a little of what we do with a wide audience made the preparation worthwhile.”
