Students start the week with a song

Headmaster John Green has introduced a new weekly all-school hymn practice that has set the school buzzing with the sound of music.

Mr Green, who took over as head in September, said: “It is well known that singing is good for the soul and lifts your spirits. Changing the structure of the school week to incorporate the weekly hymn practice has seen everyone start the week humming new hymns with enthusiasm and a smile on their faces.”

Seaford College has produced singers such as top international baritone Matthew Rose and, more recently, the Brit Awards Best Newcomer for 2013, Tom Odell.

This term has also seen the launch of a new community service programme, where students go out into the community each Wednesday, helping with things as diverse as prep school sports tuition, animal welfare and garden restoration.

Mr Green said: “Since my arrival as headmaster in September, I have been very keen to improve links between the college and the local community. Last term we had an extremely successful community action day with the whole senior school involved. So far this year, pupils have been helping with a number of local projects including Brent Lodge animal hospital, Petworth House [restoring a kitchen and traditional cottage garden] and the Mount Noddy animal sanctuary.

“A number of pupils have also been coaching sport in our Prep School and we have been involved in the environment day at Oakwood School.”

Some of the projects will help students in their endeavours as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which now has a record number of participants in school.

Last month, the Prep School hosted a Choral Singing Day, putting together a 70-strong choir of youngsters from local primary schools.